Would Jays fans have wanted Barry Bonds here?

[asif9t9]

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I was using the numbers from The Hardball Times; not sure what differentiates the two.

Still, we're both arguing the same point...whether it's 2.3 or 5 wins, the difference between Bonds and Thomas isn't enough to make us a playoff squad, and thus would not be worth bringing the circus to town.

I don't know where those numbers come from, but if you're going to base things on those numbers, we might as well not even play out the season.

[Michael Bradley]

If the Jays could afford Bonds right now (if/when the Rios extension gets done), then a platoon of Barry and Frank might be the only way to add a legit clean-up hitter to the lineup, and at the same time prevent plate appearances for Thomas (so his option doesn't vest).

The difference between Bonds and Thomas vs. RHP last season was over .200 in OPS. This team looks destined to be weak against RHP until Stairs and Rolen get healthy, and even then they are far inferior to Boston and New York in that area.

Yes, it will be a circus and possibly a distraction. Yes, I will have a hard time rooting for Bonds. Yes, Thomas will be pissed about his reduced playing time. However, at the end of the day, it's the only way I can imagine the team could add a huge boost to their 2008 playoff chances. Either take a gigantic risk like this, or watch a team like the Tigers do it successfully and wish you did in hindsight.

[OldNo7]

I doubt Bonds signs on to be a platoon DH. He would want to play almost everyday if he was only hitting.

[Schad]

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I don't know where those numbers come from, but if you're going to base things on those numbers, we might as well not even play out the season.

Huh? Unless we have an awful lot of luck injury-wise (not happening thus far), or half the batting order has career years, the Jays are not going to be a playoff team. If that means 'we might as well not even play out the season', then I suppose that you're right.

Re: MB. If Bonds was willing to platoon with Thomas, he would represent a significant boost to our offense, without a doubt. However, there should be better opportunities for him; Seattle is currently DHing Jose Vidro, and Detroit has Jacque Jones in LF. Unless we're the only team interested come May, I doubt that he would jump at the chance for 400 PAs on a fringe Wild Card team.

[asif9t9]

Anyone hear Wilner's take on this? It was interesting because Wilner wasn't talking about replacing Thomas with Bonds. He said it would make sense to replace Stairs. Therefore, put Bonds into our everyday lineup. Stewart? Let him flounder as a fourth outfielder.

Anyways, a couple of big guys like Thomas AND Bonds in our lineup? Slow. But I like it.