1) There is zero intelligence to even considering Hultzen to start the year in the rotation. Even if he throws 25 scoreless innings in spring training. It would be like asking a guy on his first day of rehab for a pulled hammy to go full speed. Give it the time it requires.
2) I buy the Happ talk 100%--no motivational aspect at all. He threw 158 injury-free innings last year. Walked totaled 120, but with injury. Paxton totaled only 87, because of injury. Elias got to 168, but was shut down the last two weeks because of injury. In his last three starts, he struck out six in 14 innings. Not the same guy. Do we know he's cured? I'm betting the M's don't. In short, fellow Shandler adherents will note his warning flags on health for both Paxton and Walker. Happ allows us to not push everybody at the same time.
3) Yes, the left-hand platoon in right field is an issue. It will probably be addressed. But I'm still more concerned about backing up LoMo, because of his own injury history. I stand firmly on my Gaby Sanchez bandwagon.
4) It would be malpractice to start DJ with the big team...or assume he'll be ready the first half. Ditto Montero.
5) On a happier note, Shandler blesses Cano, Seager, Cruz and Ackley with sparkling reliability grades.
6) But in any case, there's still 6+ weeks to figure this out, right?
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