Originally Posted by
Enscheff
The keys to sustaining success are:
Cash in players for new prospects when they have 1-2 years of control remaining. Call up prospects to replace them, and continue that cycle.
Avoid dead money contracts at almost all costs. This means no long term commitments to pitchers into their 30s, and no shopping at the top of the FA market.
When a gap in the "prospect replaces young veteran" cycle inevitably has a gap, sign a FA veteran to a short contract. Avoid guys that will cost a draft pick.
Sign young position players to contracts early that buy out a couple FA years. Only extend pitchers through their 20s, but option years into their early 30s are fine. Don't be stupid and extend bad players like CJ.
In short, maintain maximum roster and financial flexibility.