Raines Only Has About Five Great Years Left

Over the past few months, it has been fun listening and reading to the debate between a great percentage of Dodger fans and Dodger management over the issue of attempting to sign Tim Raines, a free agent.

Despite his obvious interest in playing for the Dodgers, management has held steadfast in its professed belief in growing players from within. By signing Raines, they would have to forfeit a future draft choice, let alone pay Raines a salary commensurate with Messrs. Guerrero and Valenzuela.

I, for one, agree with the Dodgers. Who in their right mind would want to acquire a player like Raines? Who needs a perennial .300 hitting superstar who led the league in batting average (.334) last year; steals 70 to 90 bases every year; would add speed and grace to a slow, hobbled outfield; could score over 120 runs with Sax, Madlock, Guerrero and Marshall behind him, and create unparalleled excitement for years at Dodger Stadium?

But I can see O’Malley’s and Campanis’ point. He probably only has five great years left. Maybe eight.

Wake up, gentlemen! The Dodgers, without Raines and if healthy, are a good team. With Raines and healthy, they are a potentially great team for years to come.

LOU VOGT

Mission Viejo