I think the most interesting thing about this team is all the external misconceptions. This is still a really good core, arguably an elite one when healthy. They just did not add the pieces needed to withstand injuries and underperformance last season. I genuinely believe that adding a solid starting pitcher, a reliable reliever and potentially a shortstop could make them the clear-cut second-best roster in baseball again. They are really not far off.
These moves also should not be surprising to anyone, given that AA has been adding around the edges (minor-league depth) for weeks. Now he has simply started adding quality depth. The bullpen is definitely a liability as of today, but it is only one elite arm away from becoming a strength. The rotation is arguably one of the most talented in baseball, but it lacks durability, so fix that. The offensive depth has largely been addressed and adding a good shortstop like Kim would resolve my remaining concerns.
I also think people are underestimating (1) the value Holmes and Lopez can provide in either the rotation or the bullpen, and (2) the depth and versatility that Wentz and José Suárez bring.
Yes, there are clear injury concerns. But I like what we are seeing, provided AA does not stop here.
