Some would say those expectations were misguided, with a roster full of injury risks, defensive problems and a lack of pitching depth.
The two trades will give the Mets pitching depth, but they come at a price.
Lack of pitching depth might have been a hindrance, but the team was helped by a record-setting offense.
In designing the 2007 Yankees, Cashman omitted pitching depth.
"We got pitching depth and a good outfielder and leadoff hitter."
That's where they need to be, in large part because of the quality pitching depth we have.
Without speaking directly about the trade, Cashman emphasized the importance of adding pitching depth.
The Pirates, with more pennant-race experience and pitching depth, have opened that lead up again.
He provides starting pitching depth and, with his $2.5 million option, is relatively inexpensive.
Thrift and Green are obtaining the elements that characterize a contender: pitching depth and strength up the middle.