With the news today that starter Connelly Early is experiencing forearm discomfort, the best laid plans for his inclusion in the 2027 starting rotation might be premature. However, any team that has James Wood and CJ Abrams on it will be a good start to build a roster around. This might not be popular, but I would swap grass for dirt for the two of them. Bring Wood into the infield, and put Abrams into the outfield. Move Nasim Nunez to shortstop. That will allow you to look at Seaver King and possibly Chris Hacopian at second base.

At some point, this team needs batters who don’t need to be platooned. We know for instance that Dylan Crews struggles against most right-handed pitching and the same for Brady House. We know that Daylen Lile struggles against left-handed pitching. With 13 position players, you cannot platoon everyone.

Let’s look at a possible position roster:

Catcher: Keibert Ruiz S

First Base: James Wood L

Second Base: Seaver King R

Third Base: Brady House R

Shortstop: Nasim Nunez S

Left field: Daylen Lile L

Center field: Jacob Young R

Right field: CJ Abrams L

Designated Hitter: Abimelec Ortiz L

Bench: Dylan Crews R, Harry Ford R, infielder L, Yohandy Morales R

Now if you have money to spend, you get Luis Arraez and put Seaver King on the bench. The other question will be whether or not Wood can play first base and CJ Abrams in the outfield.

The next question will be on the starting rotation if Connelly Early can’t pitch next year. The greatest need for this team is getting that true No. 1 starting pitcher and spending your wad on that player.

1. Free Agent
2. Cade Cavalli
3. Jake Irvin
4. DJ Herz
5. TBD

That doesn’t scream playoff team. This team once got Max Scherzer. What about Tarik Skubal? Sounds crazy, but maybe the time is now while the payroll is extremely low.

We can dream. Let us know what you think.