Buck Showalter has started Robbie Andino in three straight games now (the third time, in the leadoff spot), and MASN commentators have made a big deal out of how he wants to have a good look at Andino and "likes his tools" (remembering that he's a former 2nd round draft pick and that he's actually still only 26). They also point out two surprising facts about his AAA season: a) his AVG in the second half is over .300, and b) he has 13 HR on the season.

With Izturis' contract due to expire and few SS on the free agent market, does anyone think Buck might be taking a look at Andino as a starting option for the 2011 season? Don't get me wrong - this wouldn't thrill me - Andino's slash line for the year at AAA is still a mediocre .264/.302/.405. But this compares with Izturis' production of .236/.276/.276 (a truly awful OPS of .552). If Andino could transfer his AAA performance to big league level, he'd still represent a modest but significant offensive upgrade, especially in the SLG department. Add to this that the ageing Izturis' defense is declining and that dumping Izturis would save you salary bucks and awkward playing time commitments, and it starts to not look like such an awful idea if Andino can show some promise in these last few games of September.

In any case, whether a good idea or not, do you think it might be one that Buck is considering?