[More Cowbell]

I know you guys don't want to give up on Hamilton or Votto or someone of their caliber that the Reds have, but how are the Reds going to get good pitching? It's not on the FA market. Gotta give good to get good. The Reds won't compete with better starting pitching next season.

I totally agree that the only way the Reds will be able to add a quality starter this year will be to trade for one. Like you said, there isn't anything but mediocrity on the free agent market.

However, the reason I have opposed trading Hamilton is not because I don't want to lose him. To me, no one on the team is untouchable if it makes the club better in the long run and improves the chances of making the playoffs. The reason I'm not in favor of trading Hamilton is I don't think he would bring much in return. This was only his first season in the majors, and he spent a good chunk of it on the D.L. When you consider his injury-riddled history in the minors, Hamilton's durability has to be called into question. Was he just unlucky this year, or is he always going to be fragile and injury-prone? I don't know the answer, but I can guarantee that other clubs will be asking that same question, and that will likely depress his trade value. If you're going to trade him, wait until he has shown he can stay healthy for a whole year, and the return should be much better.

As for Votto, I'm not absolutely opposed to trading him, I just want to see that the Reds get a fair return if they do trade. I believe he will be a star, so if he is going to be shopped, the guy we get back better be a 'can't miss' prospect.