Now that the nerds on Capitol Hill have reminded us why they are NERDS, and not athletes by any means, let’s get cookin' on the upcoming season.

 

Here at the Dirt, I have broken it down to a five part series, so you the fan will have all the knowledge you need leading up to the 08 season. Enjoy!!

 

 

Part 1 - Don't Be Sold On These Three Just Yet!

 

1.) Jacoby Ellsbury

 

I can hear the Boston fans clear across the map on this one. Ok, this kid made a name for himself at the end of the year, but that doesn't matter. Want to know why? Because of scouting reports, that's why!! Anything on the inner half of the plate above 88 m.p.h, and this kid is going to have some serious wood chips left in his hands. And until he can figure out how to get his hands through on the inside pitch, I wouldn't go switching cereals just yet. Coco Crisp still may be the best brand in center.

 

 

2.) Andy LaRoche

 

Where did all of this, "Andy is our savior at third" #### come from? All I hear is how this guy is going to be the one that gets Nomar a seat on the pine. HA!! Just a couple of months ago was it not Los Angeles that was in the A-Rod sweepstakes. Hmmmm. That’s right, they were!!!!! LaRoche is young and may well be the player to fill that void left over from Beltre, but a savior, he is not. Saviors don't hit below .230 their first season. Don't worry Mia, Nomar will get his chance.

 

 

3.) Nick Swisher

 

This is another one of the victims of the scouting report. He had a good season a few years ago, but it didn't take scouts long to figure him out. He will provide attitude and hustle to the Sox, but if Ozzie can't get him to be more selective at the plate, then Nick and his .250 career avg. will be short lived in Chi- Town. 22 homeruns a year does not make you a power hitter. I don't care if you are from the same state as Kruk or not!!!

 

 

And that is the Inside Dirt