Darren Oliver
DonS is a HUGE Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim fan! And he is VERY happy the Halos have signed his buddy, Darren Oliver. Darren was a long time member of DonS’ Molly Putts Marauders of the Illowa APBA League, and it nearly broke his heart when he had to let Oliver go a couple of years ago. The Angels really haven’t had a lefthander out of the pen in some time, they tried JC Romero, but the results were not good. Oliver is a consumate professional and looks to be a good fit. Primarily he works out of the pen, but can start in a pinch. Darren is the son of former big leaguer Bob Oliver.
Like the lightning bug that backed into a fan, I Am “delighted” with the signing. Darren Oliver will make a positive contribution, both in the bullpen and in the clubhouse.
One caution: If Oliver is STARTING GAMES, I think it will be difficult for the Angels to reach their full potential in 2007.
Now, if we can add another bat. Either through internal development (Kotchman, Kendry, a healthy Erstad) or through a trade.
Off the wall idea: How about penciling in Brandon Wood as the starting third baseman? Would that be pushing it? Would he “sink” or would he ‘swim?”
Obviously, Figgins, McPherson or Maicer would be “safer choices.”