Preston Wilson is Houston Astro, and one with a crazy deal:
I cannot for the life of me imagine a scenario under which the Astros would exercise that option on a mediocre then-32-year-old outfielder. But for one year, not such a bad deal, especially since it gives the 'Stros the flexibility to deal Willy Tavares.
Also new in the NL Central, Jeromy Burnitz is a Pirate. As a commentor says over at Bucs Dugout: "$13.45 million spent on Burnitz, Hernandez, and Randa. That's a Bonifay-esque level of performance by [Dave Littlefield]." My feelings exactly.
The good news--besides a division "rival" having done something stupid--is that Craig Wilson may actually go to a team that appreciates him. Lloyd McClendon buried him when he first came up, but he mashed in a full season in 2004. I have no idea whether the Pirates plan to trade him, or if so, what it would take to pry him away, but consider what Wilson offers:
- A righty to spell Fielder at first base
- A backup catcher to make Chad Moeller expendable
- Geoff Jenkins insurance
- A Carlos Lee replacement the second that some contender feels the need to deal for Caballo.
Yes, I know I'm fantasizing here, but if the Pirates value Craig Wilson as little as they appear to with the Burnitz signing, I say Justin Lehr and a B- prospect are on the table.