killdeer
Remembering spring training is just around the corner makes these dreary winter days just a bit more bearable...how about some hot stove debate?
I'll throw out my vote for the all-time Reds team by position....
C: Johnny Bench
(obviously the easiest choice to start with)
1B: Tony Perez
the clutch RBI producer that made the Big Red Machine go...the team chemistry was never the same after he was traded before the 1977 season. Had to give a little consideration to Ted Kluszewski, however.
2B: Joe Morgan
probably not only the greatest Reds 2nd baseman, but arguably one of the best in baseball history.
SS: Barry Larkin
another fairly easy choice...on the bubble for the HOF? I am continuously reminded by my friends that when Larkin and Kurt Stillwell hit the big club at about the same time, I picked Stillwell as having the bigger upside, and suspected that Larkin would be moved to 2B to make room for Stillwell. That is clearly why I am not GM material.
3B: Heinie Groh
yep, no Rose here. Looking at a nine year career with the Reds, Groh was a league leading hitter, and excellent defender statistically. Sentimental votes to Buddy Bell and Chris Sabo...but hard to compete with a name like "Heinie".
LF: Pete Rose's career of versatility gives me the potential to plug him in at several different positions...I'll pick left. George Foster merits consideration.
CF: Vada Pinson
some great years with the Reds early in his career. Honorable mention to Cesar Geronimo. This would have been Junior, had the Reds had Junior in his prime.
RF: Frank Robinson
played both left and right for the Reds...had a MVP season with the Reds, and another after he was traded to the Orioles.
Rotation:
Noodles Hahn...I know little about this old-timer (1899-1905) except he still holds franchise records...ok with me. Another great name.
Jim Maloney...3 no-no's with the Redlegs.
Jose Rijo...world champion and ERA leading run-killer.
Bucky Walters...WWII-era anchor of the rotation, led NL in wins thrice.
Mario Soto...impressive when at his peak, which was not too long.
RP: John Franco...several good candidates here, gonna go with the New-Yorker.
opinions...?
What No Adam Dunn????????