I agree, Roxpert. I would like to think that "the plan" ultimately culminates in a payroll that is back in the top half of MLB. I think their history establishes that they're not afraid to spend, but they were burned pretty badly and are understandably reluctant to have that happen again. I think, in the long run, that will be a good thing. The farm system is very strong and the major league roster (save a couple of holdovers) is young and relatively inexpensive.
The time to aggressively jump into the free agent pool is next Winter, when the lineup features a full season of Iannetta and Tulowitzki and Jimenez, Roe, Morales and Stewart are a year closer to contributing. Maybe Jason Jennings is still here, maybe not- but if he's gone, he'll likely have brought back some young arms or a CF in return.
Depending upon what happens with Helton, Holliday and Hawpe, that's the makings of a real good, young lineup. And that's the lineup you supplement with a couple of free agents ($15-$20 million) to get you back to where you need to be.
If they don't spend next Winter, then that's an issue. But right now, I think it's all making sense and in keeping with the plan.
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