The G's management has complained or explained that they didn't go out and get Vlad because they didn't have the money. But if you look at the moeny earmarked toward making an offer at Maddax, Tucker, etc...they would have come within 20% of asking price of Vlad. I, myself, would have much rather have had suspect supporting players with Vlad. Point is, getting Vlad was doable, if the G's were willing to budge on their budget numbers by a scant 10-20% in my opinion. Which hardly constitutes breaking the bank.

Which brings me to what they are really trying to do...

Really I suspect they are targeting a player like Beltran. I would really expect them to make a big push for him. Bottom line, he is a franchise player that plays a critical position of defense for a pitching heavy team. He also comes injury free and will be cheaper then Vlad but possess a big impact too. Not a Vlad impact offensively, but you will be paying a cheaper price for him.

JMO...