[wisehandpoker]

meh, he's turning 29 in the offseason and his numbers are trending downwards (granted, not drastically) to the point where he's come back to the pack a bit. With both Beckett and CC's numbers trending the other direction and being two years younger, it's feasible they'll be better investments. Santana's probably still the best, but two years ago I wouldn't have thought to question it. I just don't think he's the 2004 johan any more.

By the way, was there any noticable change in Santana's peripheral numbers that would explain the sudden increase in HRs allowed this year?

edit: One other consideration: While I'd rather have Johan for the regular season, I can't say I choose him to pitch the one-game playoff game for my life over Beckett. If the decision makers feel the same way, that has to be a consideration for teams like the Yanks/Sox, for whom making the playoffs isn't enough. Am I off in any of this?