Asche is a potential star. But any key to success next year is going to be some stability in the lineup. They either need Howard in the lineup with 35 home runs and 100 RBIs or they need someone else from day 1 of spring training. I personally think Howard is finished.

I like Ruf, though he's definitely a diamond in the "rough"

Doc is finished. I do not see him coming back. I think Amaro really needs to think outside the box in the off season....including trading Doc and even trading Howard if they do not have strong confidence he will be 100% next spring.

I hope they keep Chooch, though his late-season offensive surge might increase his value in the off-season to other clubs.

And God, PLEASE TRADE PAPELBON!!!

They have 3 good starters for next year...Lee, Hamels, and Kendrick. All the more reason to deal away Doc and Howard if he's not healthy, and get some younger arms.

I don't think the playoffs are out of the question next year - but Amaro needs to be aggressive in the off-season.