I know I am probably about the billionth person to complain about the offense, but what I want to ask is if there is any trade or FA signing this off-season that will actually help us become contenders again.  Obviously we can pitch we have about 10 good starters coming up, but really where is the hitting in the minors.  The best guys (age included) that I find are in either AA or A ball and even then we really seem to lack that cornerstone offensive player.  Sure we have a group of guys that can hit maybe 20 bombs and steal 30 bags, or the players that will hit .220 with 30 bombs.  I just don't see the Big Mac, Giambi, or Tejada anywhere in our farm close to being ready for the majors.  This isn't to say we don't have a talented farm system.

 So does anybody think we may sign somebody like Pat Burrell this off-season to give us a chance to contend again?   I personally think he may not be such a bad sign, but his price tag is going to be high and it seems that most of our offensive talent lies in the outfield.  I know it is unlikely that we can legitimately contend for a WS next year, but it would be a nice change of pace to score some runs.  I also know that it is usually the best move to sit and wait for the minors to develop, but by the time we develop our minors will this pitching be gone?

So if somebody sees a solution please tell me.  Also what level is this Inoa/Iona (sp?) going to play at?