They would have felt horrible... had it happened last year.

But it's comical to think that the Marlins would have re-signed Manny. This is a franchise that wouldn't shell out the $5 million for someone like Bobby Abreu, and isn't likely to add much even with struggling or limited players at multiple positions. They didn't even bring back Luis Gonzalez, and haven't done so even with a dearth of real outfield depth.

The Marlins simply have too many underperforming assets right now.

It's been a lot of Jorge Cantu, a little of Hanley Ramirez and the catchers, and then everybody else. And that doesn't even get into the starting rotation, which is only 2/5 reliable.

The centerfielder doesn't look ready.

The?third baseman is starting to show why Washington deemed him expendable.

The second baseman has the same old holes in his swing.

The right fielder is streaky, and probably a fourth outfielder on a?contending club.

And the left fielder is looking more and more like hype, not hope.

Plus, as much as I love Alfredo Amezaga and Wes Helms as spare parts, you don't see starter-quality players on the bench or in the high minors, especially now that Gaby Sanchez is hurt.

So, if you're Larry Beinfest, what would you do to the lineup, if you have any serious plans of contending this year? Or would you just wait and let the team develop, while worrying more about future years??

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