Cubbies had Joe Browski (sp?) in th ecloser's role last season. He was OK, not great. Hawkins real value is as a set up guy. I believe the Cubbies keep Hawkins in that role, with Browski and maybe Alfonseca, if he's healthy, in the closer's chair.
I like the Milton deal for the Phils. I'm surprised the Yanks didn't make a strong push for this lefty, who is a gamble, but when healthy, has the goods to be a super pitcher. Then again, Vasquez piles up the innings and K's. He will also have a solid new bullpen behing him if he comes to the Yanks.
Gordon is a great pickup. Forget his age, he's one guy who will go on for another 2-3 years easily. The real key is Quantrill, if the reports are true that the Yanks signed him. He's a bulldog, who pitches long or short relief. I have liked him for years. Quantrill, Heredia, Gordon and Karsay, with Gabe White on the horizon, llets Mariano stay as a 1 inning guy, which will keep him strong. The 'Pen is shaping up as a solid part of the team for 2004. Pettite and 1 more starter makes the rotation excellent. Sheffield makes the lineup as good as any, barring injury, in the bigs.
Bring on 2004!!
