[Brad K]

Nov 6 1962

Its hard to set off season priorities due to unknowns. At 3B both Don Hoak and Gilbert Watts under performed their ratings hitting .206 and .204. Are the ratings real or are the performances real? They're at 2.5 stars. I could call up Orlando McFarland from AAA. He's 2.0 stars but on the details looks as good as Hoak and Watts. Twenty year old 3B prospect Bob Bailey is 2.0 stars. Spending money on a star free agent 3B would create a traffic jam at the position.

SS Dick Groat's ratings seem higher than reasonable for a 32 year old but he did hit .287. I hope that's real because SS prospect Gene Alley isn't ready.

Maz at only 26 is losing a bit on ratings. He's only 3.0 stars now.

CF Jim Piersall at 32 has to be looking at a drop. His defense is still excellent at 16 but his 11 contact rating matches his .268 average. However 24 year old Curt Flood is a free agent, a better hitter, and a better fielder. I made him a solid offer.

I have $1.2m to spend on free agents (offer to Flood already deducted). I want to keep some for in season acquisitions if needed. Probably 3/4 but I'm not dropping below half.

I need to sell more season tickets this year. Too much of the attendance is at the gate and thus not guaranteed. The ticket prices are near the top of the league.

Donn Clendenon at age 26 was kind of old for a break in player. He's a decent but not outstanding LF and may already be losing some range for his age 27 year. If so, and if Stargell can handle LF, then that forces a decision between Clendennon and Dick Stuart at 1B although Clendennon would be a very cost effective backup and PH.


Bob Bailey, Curt Flood