In some ways, being out of options next year may work in Homer's favor. Many here think Massett was kept because he was out of options. So far, he's doing better than the Reds had a reason to believe he would do.

The same thing could happen with Homer. Decent but not spectacular spring. Out of options. We keep him because we can't get the value of his potential for him. He matures, grows and learns. Maybe. Maybe not. But, if you can't trade him for value or send him back to L'ville, it's a scenario that may play out.