The 'long been obvious' quote is also a bit weird. The bullpen was outstanding in 2023. It's been obvious that it's a problem since ... May.
That's the thing I also don't get. The pen heading into this year was constructed according to what he wants. Richards, Swanson, Romano, Garcia were all strong pen arms acquired and paid well to be the core of the pen.
And then it didn't work out, because it turns out that spending money on a risky position full of randomness and uncertainty is no sure thing. The only reason they have waiver claims and upside plays is because Romano is hurt and they sold off Richards and Garcia when it was clear they were struggling because it was a chance to bring in some assets for expiring contracts and things they didn't need at the time.
Making it sound like this pen right now is the one they built with the intention of competing is a laughable mischaracterization.