Mike Schmidt

[jaromero106]

I need some advice.

Through injury it was revealed that I have Schmidt's worst card. Should I drop him for Ron Cey and upgrade elsewhere, or should I keep schmidt and his hefty salary. I know this is a general question but lets just assume there are still players in free agency that would upgrade other areas. Thanks for your input

[JOSEPHBONK]

Sorry to hear you have Mike's worst season. Much like Jack McKeon didn't know Mike Lowell was going to blow this year, the risk of a good player underperforming is what makes the 80s game unique and interesting.

I would definitely drop Mike. He simply absorbs too much salary to keep him for a low level of productivty. You can match .250 with 20 some homers with a number of less expensive alternatives. Without knowing your team and the other third basemen available, you are in the best position to determine who is the best replacement. Some players I have seen play well at third after being in season pick ups include Carney Lansford and Graig Nettles. Of course, I've also seen Nettles put up a below .200 batting average so there is risk and tradeoffs in everything.

[Jablowmi]

This is almost always the toughest call, although not really with Schmidt. If you are at the beginning of the season (95% drop range), this is a no brainer. He ain't worth it.

I've had a tougher time deciding on Yount in his worst year, although I don't think his bad season is nearly as bad as Schmidt's. Ultimately, I've kept Yount on at least 2 occasions b/c of the D and b/c he is still a top (and sometimes the top) hitting SS even with the bad card. In another league, I just picked up Rickey H despite knowing he had his worst card b/c I needed a leadoff guy and still hope he gets on nearly 40% of the time. With Schmidt, that year just blows and while the 1 at 3B is good, there is a lot you can do with $8M.

Good luck and let us know what you do.

[FletchGriswold]

Go with Brook Jacoby at 3B (I'm sure he's available) and spend the rest on your bullpen - there's always good RP on the waiver wire. That it, unless you have another gaping whole in your lineup, in need of an upgrade.

[jaromero106]

I pretty much thought the same thing as what you guys are saying. He has a huge salary and since its only 9 games into the season, I think its a no-brainer to let him go. I guess I got lucky in that I discovered this early on.

Thanks for your input