I think I’d take my chances by sticking with Harris and then Tolbert when he’s healthy, and I expect the Twins to do the same. I don’t think Eckstein would be that much of an improvement, if one at all.

Not only that, but like how it says a team looking for playoff experience, with Smith that might translate into thinking “Oh, he’s a world series MVP! He’d be a perfect leader for our young club!”

I know Eckstein and his “grit” and “hustle” and “diminutive stature” and whatnot are overrated, but a .367 OBP is nothing to sneeze at – it’d rank second on the Twins. He’s not a clear-cut upgrade, but he might be an upgrade nonetheless. It largely depends on whether you think power or OBP are a greater weakness – Eckstein gets on base at a greater clip than Harris and Casilla but hits for less power. Not that it’s a huge deal either, but Eckstein would also answer the “if Gomez moves down in the order, who bats leadoff?” question.

I also don’t know how Eckstein’s defense is… my guess is that he’d be a downgrade from Casilla and a slight upgrade from Harris, but that’s based on vague ideas of reputation, not any direct observation or numbers, so take it with as many grains of salt as you’d like.

where would he play? we already have a bundle of middle infielders

I was thinking about it, and even though he’s having a down year, someone like Adrian Beltre wouldn’t be bad to have Adrian Beltre. A lot of sportscasters/figures are down on him because of his decrease in AVG, but his OBP is in line with his career, and his slugging percentage has dropped a bit, his OPS+ is right around average, which would be great for this squad.
The only problem getting under Lamb’s contract, and if Buscher continues to produce (although I’m not sure if he’s a long term answer).

In addition, Eckstein plays second base now, which is actually better for him, because he never had the range or arm (read athletic talent) to play shortstop well.