L. Montanez vs. A. Jones or G. Matthews

[Kstan]

Looking for a pickup to replace Vlad. Montanez had a great year last year, but is hitting lots of GB (56%) to start this year. Matthews is starting to get more PT but is showing very little power. Andruw Jones has his CT% back up to pre-2008 levels and is driving the ball. Of course these are all small sample sizes. My gut tells me to go with Andruw Jones, but my head is very skeptical. We also have J. Hamilton who looks to be banged up a bit. Any thoughts on the choice of these 3? Thanx

[da_big_kid_94]

I would go with Andruw right now. It is not quantifiable by any means, but I thought the Angels would go into a funk lasting 6-8 weeks and it is why I steered clear of anyone who is currently with the club (i.e, not Lackey or Escobar). The Adenhart situation has to have taken something out of most of the Angels and they are going to need time to right themselves. But, I wouldn't expect too much from ole A.J.

[Todd Zola]

The GB% for Montanez is the least of my worries, for as you said, small sample. He'll probably do the least damage, but also has the least upside. With Freel out and Mora as well, he could pick up some AB vs. LHP.

Andruw may have the largest upside, especially if Hamilton's ribs continue to be an issue, buy he also has to show he can keep this up.

Matthews is an enigma, even without the unfortunate ancillary factors.

So Montanez is the safe route, Jones more lightning in a bottle route. It depends on your risk profile and needs.

In LABR, I was able to deal Kerry Wood and Ramon Santiago for Magglio Ordonez to replace my fallen Vlad, then dealt Matthews for JP Howell to backfill Wood's spot. I have W Balentein to fill the UT that Santiago was occupying.