(Editor's note: This is the latest in a series of posts briefly breaking down each team's draft. It will culminate in the debut of the 2010 Power Rankings at the end.)
Well, he asked for it and now he's here. Hal is in the majors now, playing in a real league with real managers. Let's see how he responds in his inaugural season. For one, expectations are low, so it wouldn't surprise anyone to see him fail while adjusting to the increased speed at this level. Anything above a consolation-bracket finish is gravy.
Focus: Pitching-hitting combination. After grabbing the horse Roy Halladay in the opening live round, Hal loaded up on hitters his next three picks before grabbing another couple pitchers - and capable ones at that. Hal wisely grabbed a shortstop in the late rounds to insure himself of Jose Reyes in case he begins the season on the DL.
Storyline: With Hal's lack of experience, some wondered what his draft strategy would be. Other than taking up the full 90 seconds just about every time, he seemed to acclimate himself well and was not intimidated during the draft.
Headscratcher: Knowing he is losing all three keepers after this year, Hal didn't really draft for the future. Other than Roy Halladay, I don't see a clear-cut keeper. Would Hal be happy going into the offseason with Brandon Phillips or Andre Ethier? Hard to say. We'll have to wait and see how the year plays out.
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