The trick is if you convert Bard as a SP you stick him there until he proves he can't do it, then you move him back. None of the back and forth stuff like what the Yankees did with Joba or the consisent babying of him. I think the Yankees really ruined him by all the moving back and forth they did with him. When he was in the minors he reportly was able to maintain his velocity and stamina deep into games. I think it would be next to impossible to get both Hanley and Wright (and really realistically one of them) especially in terms of adding all that payroll. But IF somehow the Sox could it would probably mean Youkilis and/or Ortiz would be gone. I think Youkilis is going to end up as the full time DH by 2013 anyway so if he doesn't like it too bad. But I think he'll be smart enough to realize playing the field everyday takes its toll on his body.
Joba was able yes,....but Bard as you pointed out had issues as SP.....I think the minors proved what he can and cant do, and he EXCELS from Pen. Personally, I am fine with Joba in pen - always preferred him there as I have come to realize that when healthy, it really aides in stretching out the pen with David R., Soriano, our two Lefty's, and of course the race to get to Mo! Come on write a letter to your congressman....both HanRam and Wright can be had gun to your head...you can only have one for 2012...you going HanRam or Wright?
Yeah I don't think Bard as a starter will work out but no harm in trying it. I'd probably rather have Hanley for 2012 and beyond, he fills the SS spot and gives the trade flexibility in being able to trade Scutaro and/or Lowrie for other parts like bullpen arms or a RHH OFer. Plus I think he's the better overall player although I'd worry about him in the clubhouse. But maybe with Ortiz there he can help straighten him out a bit since they're buddies.
Love this trade, Lowrie wasn't a long term solution and even if Melancon doesn't close he will help in the pen.
