Rossi would never hand pick a rider faster than him. So, if Rossi picked Vinales, you would have to think his performance has been a total surprise. I'm guessing at this point in his career, he has little to no say in who he shares the garage with. Yamaha wised to that strategy years ago and are finally looking to the future. I just wish there was a prospect that was so hot, Yamaha would have no choice but to not offer Rossi an extension for 19-20. Of course it would be structured where Rossi would be allowed to announce his retirement instead of being tossed out. Speaking of 2019, Will Ducati offer Marquez the largest contract in history. With their current form he would have to at least consider it and Lorenzo would be the rider he replaces. That could lead to Lorenzo heading back to Yamaha and Honda looking to replace possibly both riders depending on how long they want to continue with Pedrosa.With him struggling the way he is on the Michelin maybe it's time to let him go no matter how much stability he brings to the table. If this played out, who would Honda go after. Take their lumps and go young, promote Crutchlow and hire a youngster or someone like Zarco, not young but a late bloomer. It could get very interesting
