Hot Stove in Honolulu

After what can only be called the most catastrophic end to a season, the Hawaiians have been burning up the phone wires to explore their options. Rumors abound on the internet and its easy to figure out who may be dealt.

With the dealing of Nate McLouth last season, HHA freed up the 5 man outfield logjam only to create another one at shortstop. Its no secret that incumbent youngster Yunel Escobar thought he had done enough to keep his job secure when the veteran Jimmy Rollins was brought in. This move created a clubhouse divided as players took sides on who should be the HHA shortstop going forward. Its clear one needs to go as both are rated as shortstop only.



Another interesting battle has taken shape as youngster Asdrubal Cabrera came on strong late in a bid to unseat Placido Polanco. Its clear that age clearly favors Cabrera but this is the first year that he has put up numbers to make him a serious threat. Like the war on the left side of the diamond, there can be only one winner. Cabrera's versatility to play both 2B and SS make him the favorite to stay when push comes to shove.

In the outfield, the Hawaiians need to figure out what to do with Pat Burrell. His struggles with the glove were tolerated in the past as his bat made up for his defensive miscues. This season though his average slipped and he may be on the block. If Burrell stays, someone needs to go and that may just be Aaron Rowand, a fan favorite. Rowand has been a mainstay in the outfield for several seasons but his decrease in power the past two seasons are a concern for the short porched home field.

On the mound, there Hawaiians have had inquiries about their starters as the NASBL managers always are on the prowl for pitching. Most likely candidates to be dealt are #3 man Carlos Zambrano or #5 starter Andy Pettitte. Both had nice seasons last year and would be in the front end of most league rotations.

It promises to be an interesting offseason for the boys of Aloha as moves have to be made. The only question is if enough moves can be made to bring a title back to the islands.