[jammin' jamey]

I am actually happy they didn't trade away Dunn, I think he can be a big factor next year. If they had been blown away with an offer, that's one thing, but that wasn't going to happen given his contract stipulation that would have basically made him a 2-month rental. So, keep him and exercise the option for next year. 13 million isn't too much for a good power hitter who gets on base as frequently as he does.

Where I felt he dropped the ball was in not trading guys that don't figure into the future. Conine, definitely, and Stanton too. Both of those guys should have been shipped off for whatever was offered. Hatteburg is a good player and I like him, but unless the Reds do not feel Votto is ready then it makes no sense to keep him either. I personally think that there's nothing left to prove for Votto in AAA ball, next year it's time for him to either sink or swim with the big club. Since he's also a lefty, you couldn't even platoon him with Hatteburg, who's also a lefty. Hatteburg is having one of his better years as a part-time starter, and he would have been a great addition to a contending team. I can't imagine there weren't offers, so Krivsky must have been holding out for more.

As far as Cantu, I had heard about the trade, but I didn't post it on here since it didn't involve any current major-leaguers. I agree that Krivsky's trying to catch lightning in a bottle like he did with Phillips, but I don't know where you play him in the infield. Obviously, Phillips isn't going anywhere, Gonzo is on a big contract, and I still think it's too early to give up on Encarnacion. First may be open next year, but what about Votto? Maybe they're thinking of a Cantu/Votto platoon, especially if they think Votto can't hit lefties well enough to play everyday.

I'm with you on the Dunn situation. I wouldn't trade him just for the sake of dumping him. Maybe Krivsky was asking too much for a summer rental? I know $13 million isn't much, but you can't go into the FA market and think you are going to land significant talent in terms of starting pitching/bullpen help and throw that kind of money at Dunn as well and not raise the payroll.

Cantu is an interesting situation. Maybe the ownership is wanting to put some pressure on Encarnacion? Either way, if Cantu finds his swing again, he or whoever he takes the place of will make the bench stronger. I don't think Cantu platoons at 1B.

I really think Votto will be called up in September. Conine and maybe Stanton will go through a waiver trade to somebody. Hatteberg is the team's best hitter - he's staying. Good insurance to help with Votto at 1B. Don't forget about Jay Bruce either. He's made the jump to Louisville. He may get a good look come spring training. And the Reds are going to run Dumatrait, Livingston, Ramirez out there to see what they have and if they can contribute next season. Right now, I'd take Livingston over Belisle as the 5th starter.