[stevem810]

Sam Smith was a regular in the rotation until the Artists acquired veteran John Huchet, a free agent to be unless he inks with Paris. Smith, a decent arm, was traded for a 23 year old catcher. If Johann Girard hits free agency, the Artists will be without a first string catcher with none on the horizon.

Geer De Vries, still in AA, was acquired as insurance for the above situation. Paris, has plenty of money, but remain wary of aging veterans. Huchet wants a four year deal but he's likely to get an offer for two.

The extremely popular Girard is asking for a 7 year deal. But, some reports indicate that Girard's defensive skills might be wavering. His catching ERA is a career best 2.50, but that how much of that number belongs to Johann and not the pitching staff? Well, maybe more than what I thought. Back up C Aquine Garcia has a 3.28 CERA.