Future of the Franchise

Who doesn't love a good Johnny Bench comparison. Mesoraco, known to his friends and colleagues as Meso, was brought through the Reds system much like Bench was. Many have fond memories of one of the all-time great catchers Johnny Bench, and look forward to Meso reaching that same status.

By the time Bench was 26, he had a NL ROY, was a 2-time MVP, home run and RBI leader with 48 and 145 in 1970, and was already Hall of Fame Bound. Meso broke into the league at age 26.

Bench had a defensive WAR of over 2.0 for three season, Meso has a career dWAR of about 1.0. 

But they are both Reds, they do have that in common I guess......

Tampa Bay is hoping some of that magic though rubs off on Meso soon. He is still destined for greatness, but of course, at what level will be debatable. 

Team MVP

Tall, lanky, and incredibly awkward.: yet he is one of the most effective pitchers in the game. And while he looks like a walking brochure for Tommy Jonn, his delivery somehow works. 

He's had Cy Young caliber seasons between 2012 and 2014, ranging from 3rd to 6th in votes. Already a 3-time All Star, 2013 was his worst statistical year when measured against ERA (3.07), yet he had his highest strikeout numbers (216) with 4 complete games and highest career WAR (6.9).

Sale is an ace, and as long as he continues to produce, Tampa Bay will relish his relativly cheap contract for the next four years.