All D-Backs Podcast: The Arroyo Signing, Avoiding Arb. with Trumbo, Parra, Extensions for Gibson, Towers, and Spring Training Battles and Questions

by Hayden Hughes and Nick Opich
2/13/14





In this podcast, the guys discuss a few things. Leading off, Hayden and Nick discuss the signing of Bronson Arroyo and the stability he gives the Diamondbacks, however, is he the right guy for the team? Does this make them better, worse, or is Arroyo ultimately a non-factor? How does this affect Randall Delgado's role and how wise is it to alter his role this early into his career? How does this change the perception of the Upton trade last offseason? The dudes discuss.

Then...things get weird. In a segment meant to last 3 - 5 minutes, Hayden and Nick get into a debate about Gerardo Parra, who just avoided arbitration with the team. Hayden goes silent and gets frustrated. He is unable to cope with the idea that Parra may never be more than a platoon outfielder who plays above average defense and pouts in the corner. Nick gets sweaty and furrows his eyebrow. But seriously, who gives a guy with a .198/.276/.226 slash line against lefties a 4 year contract?

The guys then discuss the recent news that manager Kirk Gibson and GM Kevin Towers were given extensions beyond 2014. Both guys defend the extensions, but seriously question why details aren't disclosed to the public, and point out how the two are now attached at the hip. They also discuss the "panic" moves both Towers and Gibson have made, and could potentially make in the future.

Hayden complains about Courtney Hawkins not being a Diamondback again. (We're all getting sick of his whining, right?)

Finally, the guys discuss the current state of the D-Backs as we go into Spring Training in a couple weeks. They break down the "battle" positions in question such as the bullpen, backup catcher, and shortstop. There's a question looming about the closer's role and the guys want to know, why? Is there not an obvious answer for closer? Find out their opinions.

Thanks so much for listening to the podcast and please keep sharing with your friends! Keep an eye out for the MLB Team Previews. One podcast will come daily out until Opening Day.

It's a lively episode from the dynamic duo, so have a listen and stay tuned to the end for perhaps the best story of parental negligence in the bloopers. Then it ends.

Twitter: @highheatpodcast
email: highheatpodcast@gmail.com

Today's Podcast Playlist:
"Make a Beast of Myself" - Twin Atlantic
"A Certain Shade of Green (Acoustic)" - Incubus
"Talk Shows on Mute" - Incubus


Thanks again boys and girls!