Hey, I've seen a couple of these threads about defense v. Offense up lately and am facing a decision with a season that will start soon.

http://www.whatifsports.com/HBD/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=5578772 Is my third basemen from last year- in terms of rc27 he was pretty terrible.

I'm trying to decide whether or not he should start.

It depends on your other options.   I'd want more offense from 3B but I've also been stuck with some pretty weak 3B at times.

I often play guys almost exactly like that at 3rd when I'm rebuilding-- they're inexpensive and don't absolutely crush you-- but I would not want to give him starter ABs for a contender.  Look to improve the position.  He's a nice utility player.

I'm fairly set at most positions. Second and third are up for grabs (or center if I move cf to 2b).

http://www.whatifsports.com/HBD/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=6563729 Will certainly be one of the two (I hope/expect his glove to improve a little by opening day). If I played him at third, my best options at second would be http://www.whatifsports.com/HBD/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=6053509
And
http://www.whatifsports.com/HBD/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=3622825

I'm wondering how much I gain by paying to upgrade a bat at either position in free agency (I would rather spend the money on pitching).

It sounds like I should try and upgrade the bat if I want to try and make a playoff push?

Fwiw cradle is also asking 1.2 in arb this season

In my opinion you have 3 options here.
1)  Just play Aramboles at 2B, which isn't great but, especially against RHP, isn't terrible, either.
2)  If Cradle is going to make your bench anyway, platoon him with Aramboles.  The platoon is only a small upgrade, so don't roster Cradle just to do that.
3)  Depending on your pitching needs, dedicate some resources (money, or prospects that you have to trade) to acquire an upgrade at either position.  If the resources you are willing to spend are needed to fix your pitching, you can live with Aramboles.