Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Would you want Livan?

As I am sure many of you have heard, SP Livan Hernandez has been released by the Twins and is now on waivers. Hernandez has a reputation as a big time pitcher (1997 World Series, 2002 World Series) and an innings eater (albeit, not all of the innings are quality). Only a few years ago, Hernandez was a quality pitcher delivering tons of quality innings for the really bad Expos/Nationals franchise. But it seems as though both his age and heavy workload have finally taken a toll on him. He has a ERA of about 5.50 this season and has given up 199 hits in only 139 innings. A team could simply put in a waiver claim and hope he falls to them (for $2 million) or pray that he isnt picked up and then sign him for the minimum. Should a GM take a flier on Livan and hope to the baseball Gods that he finds his form?

So the question is simple, if you are a contending team, do you want Livan?

American League

Red Sox: Pretty set at rotation with Lester, Dice-K, Beckett, Wake, and Buchholz
Devil Rays: Starting pitching has held up surprisingly well during the stretch run, no need for him here
Yankees: Very good match here. With Joba Chamberlain potentially going down, Livan could step right in here (ala Sidney Ponson). Livan is definitly a better option that Darrell Rasner, and I would take him over Dan Giese because of his track record.
White Sox: Like the Devil Rays, starting pitching has held up well and remains a strength
Tigers: Until Zach Miner or Armando Galarraga fall of the map, no need for him here
Angels: Hell no

National League

Mets: Could be a fit here. With pitching injuries (Wagner and Maine) and the disappointing year from Pedro Martinez, Livan might actually have a spot in the rotation. The Mets have had a difficult time all season getting length out of their starters, which is another plus for Livan
Phillies: They need starters, but I don't like Livan in the small ballpark
Marlins: Could you imagine Livan back with the Fish 11 years after winning the World Series there? Neither can I, remains a pipe dream. Too much starting pitching depth
Cubs: Hell no.
Cardinals: Not with Carpenter back
Brewers: Not after getting CC
Diamondbacks: I would like to see him here. He could add another vet to that rotation, while giving them some innings
Dodgers: Not after getting Penny back
Rockies: The favorite for Livan. Lemme just say this on the record. Livan has given up 18 HR already and I think he is a HORRIBLE fit here. If he goes there, it could get ugly.

Me personally, I want Livan on my team. At least to give him a shot. When you see how close these races are, a quality starting pitcher could be the difference maker (sorta like Jeff Weaver in 2006). I think Colorado will put a claim in for him and eventually pick him up.

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