I watched the last game of Spring Training where the Bucs played the Phils (since it was free om MLB TV). My comment at the time was that it seemed to me that the Buc's had alot less talent on the field than the Phils.

Well after the initial start where the Bucs got to 7-5, they have plunged since with 6 straight losses. I think I will stick by my comment about the lack of talent. Aside from McCutchen, I don't think a single non-pitcher could start for another team. Nobody is hitting. Nobody is hitting for power. Nobody looks like they can.

As for the pitching, well it speaks for itself. Duke and Maholm would be No. 4 or 5 starters for most other teams. The rest of the starters (hurt or otherwise) are AAA pitcher at best. The bullpen, well they have done OK if the starters do well. But they can't keep eating innings when the starter can't even go 5 innings.

One of NH strategies was to trade what players we had for potential high upside but risky players (especially pitchers) hoping to get a few that would pan out. So far this has not happened. None of the traded for players have played that well.

So, until some of the talent in the minors moves up and NH drafts more talent, things will be ugly. I knew this season would be a repeat of the past, but it is still hard to live thru it when it is happening. Can't wait for until June when Alvarez, Tabata, and Lincoln come up. We won't win any more games, but maybe just seeming them play will make the future look brighter!