In Case You Haven't Heard...

Arthur Rhodes

Arthur Rhodes is gone and headed for Texas, as of a few days before Christmas. (Sorry I've been a little slow, but that's the holiday season.) He wanted a multi year deal from the Reds, and Walt Jocketty said no. Instead, Arthur opted to head home, and pitch for the Rangers. Presumably the teams offered the same deal, with the same basic terms. The only difference is that the Rangers included a vesting option. This means that if Rhodes performs like he did in 2010, his one year deal suddenly becomes a two year deal, and he will be back in a Rangers uniform for 2012. Essentially, they gave Arthur what he wanted in a multi year deal, but only if he pitches well. If he struggles, the option never activates, and they can let him walk after a year. Smart move by the Rangers. I'm not sure where the Reds were in all of this. I wish they would have signed Rhodes, but at the age of 41, well, frankly I'm not sure how much he has left in him. Especially considering he struggled mightily down the stretch, and was essentially a first half pitcher. Am I nervous about a trio of Aroldis Chapman, Bill Bray, and either Dontrelle Willis or Danny Herrera? Yes and no. I'm fine because (other than Herrera) they all have great stuff. I'm nervous because they all can be wild, and at times, hittable (though Chapman less so than the others). Arthur Rhodes was hardly ever wild, and hardly hittable, especially against left handers. We will see how it plays out. I think this answers the question of where Chapman will be, though.

I also have no problem with the Reds passing on Brandon Webb (who also signed with the Rangers), though I indicated they could be interested in him here, because of the depth in the rotation. Let's assume Volquez, Arroyo, and Cueto all have starting spots locked up. Webb would be competing against Leake, Wood, Chapman, Bailey, Maloney, and LeCure for a spot. I would be fine with Webb over Maloney and LeCure, but for anyone else...I think I would be worried he would only inhibit the progress of the youngsters that need to be getting innings up here now. Plus, no one knows if Webb's shoulder can hold up for 200 innings, or even 180 innings, like it has in the past. I'm not sold that he can still be a reliable option for the rotation anymore. I'd rather watch the Reds continue to develop their young talent, rather than waste time on old talent.