Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Resuming of Posting
Hey everyone that has been reading! I am sorry I haven't been posting a lot, as I have been busy working and finishing some side projects that were getting in the way. I have been preparing some posts to put up and I should be back writing full on in about three weeks. Sorry for the inconvenience!
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Trade Series PT 3: Cole Hamels Blockbuster to the Yankees
Yankees:
As always, the Yankees are one of the top teams in baseball. Their offense is nearly unstoppable, and despite an injury to Michael Pineda before the season and Mariano Rivera, their pitching staff has been putting it together, with only a few headaches. The Yankees have been known to make big splashes in trades, but this year may be different because of Brian Cashman's declaration that he will not be making big moves at the deadline this year. The Yankees may not pull the trigger on Hamels because they aim to get under the luxury tax threshold next year, and having Hamels on the payroll may cost them an additional $22-26 million per year that they won't be able to spend. As stated in earlier posts, the Phillies are starting to age and it seems that they may be getting closer to the point of selling as each day progresses.
LHP Cole Hamels to the Yankees for LHP Manny Banuelos, RHP Dellin Betances, C Gary Sanchez, OF Slade Heathcott
The Yankees get another big name to put into their rotation, and Hamels would fill a huge spot for the Yankees, who are missing CC Sabathia and Pettitte with injuries right now. If the Yankees were to trade with him, they would be fully capable of signing him to an extension. The only thing that may keep them from doing this is if they do not want to go over the luxury tax threshold next year. The Yankees do not need to drop big on Hamels to keep themselves in the race and secure their playoff spot, but he sure as hell would help.
The Phillies, once again need to get prospects for Hamels, as their chances of resigning him are getting smaller. This trade would net them two near-ready pitchers to put into their rotation and a great catching prospect in Sanchez, who might ready in time for when Ruiz might leave in free agency or not be good enough to start. Heathcott is a good talent to have around for the future, as his ceiling is pretty high, and he might develop into a good hitting outfielder to eventually replace Victorino.
It has been stated in different blogs that the Phillies asking price might already be too high for the Yankees, who are reluctant to part with prospects and increase payroll much this year.
As always, the Yankees are one of the top teams in baseball. Their offense is nearly unstoppable, and despite an injury to Michael Pineda before the season and Mariano Rivera, their pitching staff has been putting it together, with only a few headaches. The Yankees have been known to make big splashes in trades, but this year may be different because of Brian Cashman's declaration that he will not be making big moves at the deadline this year. The Yankees may not pull the trigger on Hamels because they aim to get under the luxury tax threshold next year, and having Hamels on the payroll may cost them an additional $22-26 million per year that they won't be able to spend. As stated in earlier posts, the Phillies are starting to age and it seems that they may be getting closer to the point of selling as each day progresses.
LHP Cole Hamels to the Yankees for LHP Manny Banuelos, RHP Dellin Betances, C Gary Sanchez, OF Slade Heathcott
The Yankees get another big name to put into their rotation, and Hamels would fill a huge spot for the Yankees, who are missing CC Sabathia and Pettitte with injuries right now. If the Yankees were to trade with him, they would be fully capable of signing him to an extension. The only thing that may keep them from doing this is if they do not want to go over the luxury tax threshold next year. The Yankees do not need to drop big on Hamels to keep themselves in the race and secure their playoff spot, but he sure as hell would help.
The Phillies, once again need to get prospects for Hamels, as their chances of resigning him are getting smaller. This trade would net them two near-ready pitchers to put into their rotation and a great catching prospect in Sanchez, who might ready in time for when Ruiz might leave in free agency or not be good enough to start. Heathcott is a good talent to have around for the future, as his ceiling is pretty high, and he might develop into a good hitting outfielder to eventually replace Victorino.
It has been stated in different blogs that the Phillies asking price might already be too high for the Yankees, who are reluctant to part with prospects and increase payroll much this year.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Trade Reaction: Carlos Lee to the Marlins
Carlos Lee and cash(rumored to be all but the league minimum on the remaining $9 million) to the Marlins for 3B Matt Dominguez and LHP Rob Rasmussen
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The Marlins acquire another big right handed bat to start at first over struggling Greg Dobbs and Gabby Sanchez. El Caballo will also serve as insurance for the Marlins just incase Giancarlo Stanton happens to go down with an injury and will serve as lineup protection for him. They gave up light hitting third baseman Matt Dominguez and left handed prospect Rasmussen, who has been pitching well this year in the High A level.
The Astros acquire defensive wiz third baseman Dominguez, but he has been very inconsistent with his bat and many don't see him as ever being a big league hitter. The Astros have Chris Johnson at third with Matt Downs, so Dominguez will have to fight for playing time. Rasmussen has been pitching well for the lower Marlins levels, and at 23, he still has more room to improve. He has been pretty consistent though, and may be in the major leagues by age 25 or late next year.
Overall Verdict: Tied as of Now
The Astros ate pretty much all of Lee's contract to trade him, and some might see it as a quick, irrational reaction to him denying a trade to the Los Angeles Dodgers earlier this week. The Astros get a new third base "prospect" and a pitcher that may be a dependable start from the 3-5 slots in the rotation. The Marlins now have more lineup protection with Lee and insurance for the situation if Stanton goes down with injury.
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The Marlins acquire another big right handed bat to start at first over struggling Greg Dobbs and Gabby Sanchez. El Caballo will also serve as insurance for the Marlins just incase Giancarlo Stanton happens to go down with an injury and will serve as lineup protection for him. They gave up light hitting third baseman Matt Dominguez and left handed prospect Rasmussen, who has been pitching well this year in the High A level.
The Astros acquire defensive wiz third baseman Dominguez, but he has been very inconsistent with his bat and many don't see him as ever being a big league hitter. The Astros have Chris Johnson at third with Matt Downs, so Dominguez will have to fight for playing time. Rasmussen has been pitching well for the lower Marlins levels, and at 23, he still has more room to improve. He has been pretty consistent though, and may be in the major leagues by age 25 or late next year.
Overall Verdict: Tied as of Now
The Astros ate pretty much all of Lee's contract to trade him, and some might see it as a quick, irrational reaction to him denying a trade to the Los Angeles Dodgers earlier this week. The Astros get a new third base "prospect" and a pitcher that may be a dependable start from the 3-5 slots in the rotation. The Marlins now have more lineup protection with Lee and insurance for the situation if Stanton goes down with injury.
Trade Series PT 2: Cole Hamels Blockbuster to the Dodgers
Dodgers:
The Dodgers have been a surprise contender this year, patching together some of their pitching staff and a good section of their roster with a bundle of 2 year deals. The started the season red hot, but have cooled down as of late, dropping to a game behind the division leading Giants. With their ownership situation resolved, the Dodgers may be comfortable to make big moves to improve and willing to spend large amounts of money to keep their team on top. The Dodgers are in the market, looking for a good pitcher to put behind Clayton Kershaw, who has been good as he always has been. If Zack Greinke becomes available, the Dodgers should also be considered a suitor for him as well. Since the Phillies started having rough times this year, the Dodgers have been named as possible suitors, considered the favorites for Hamels if he is dealt. The Dodgers may also be in play for some of the other players that may be made available by the Phillies. The only thing that may block the Dodgers from acquiring Hamels would be if the Dodgers want Hamels to sign an extension to complete the trade.
Here are the trade offer(s).....
LHP Cole Hamels to the Dodgers for RHP Nate Eovaldi, RHP Allen Webster, LHP Chris Reed, 1B/3B/OF Jerry Sands
LHP Cole Hamels, OF Shane Victorino to the Dodgers for RHP Zach Lee, RHP Garrett Gould, OF Alfredo Silverio, RHP Chris Winthrow, C Gorman Erickson
1st Trade- The Dodgers will acquire the marquee pitcher that they want to couple with Clayton Kershaw. They will have to give up a good amount of talent, but Hamels is the best pitcher available and has shown that he is a gamer willing to pitch when needed and will always throw a tough game.
The Phillies acquire a good quad of pitching prospects, which should help them in the near future, and a position player in Jerry Sands, who might be able to play at third for them in the future and at age 24, is almost major league ready. This is a solid package for Hamels, but the Phillies may want more value if they have to leverage the deal on a trade-n-sign.
2nd Trade- The Dodgers need an outfield bat and a good pitcher. I don't think Tony Gwynn Jr. should be starting on a contending team, and they might want to package together Hamels and Victorino to fill their roster holes. They are giving up a plethora of prospects, but shoring up their roster. This move would easily put them in contention for the World Series, making their lineup stronger and putting a second dominant left hander into the rotation.
The Phillies are getting a titanic haul in this trade. They receive 3 premium pitching prospects and 2 very good position prospects to help give their farm system depth. The chances are becoming smaller everyday that they wait to resign Cole Hamels, and Victorino is going to become a big expensive on a team that may not want to pay him $10-12 million to start.
The Dodgers have been a surprise contender this year, patching together some of their pitching staff and a good section of their roster with a bundle of 2 year deals. The started the season red hot, but have cooled down as of late, dropping to a game behind the division leading Giants. With their ownership situation resolved, the Dodgers may be comfortable to make big moves to improve and willing to spend large amounts of money to keep their team on top. The Dodgers are in the market, looking for a good pitcher to put behind Clayton Kershaw, who has been good as he always has been. If Zack Greinke becomes available, the Dodgers should also be considered a suitor for him as well. Since the Phillies started having rough times this year, the Dodgers have been named as possible suitors, considered the favorites for Hamels if he is dealt. The Dodgers may also be in play for some of the other players that may be made available by the Phillies. The only thing that may block the Dodgers from acquiring Hamels would be if the Dodgers want Hamels to sign an extension to complete the trade.
Here are the trade offer(s).....
LHP Cole Hamels to the Dodgers for RHP Nate Eovaldi, RHP Allen Webster, LHP Chris Reed, 1B/3B/OF Jerry Sands
LHP Cole Hamels, OF Shane Victorino to the Dodgers for RHP Zach Lee, RHP Garrett Gould, OF Alfredo Silverio, RHP Chris Winthrow, C Gorman Erickson
1st Trade- The Dodgers will acquire the marquee pitcher that they want to couple with Clayton Kershaw. They will have to give up a good amount of talent, but Hamels is the best pitcher available and has shown that he is a gamer willing to pitch when needed and will always throw a tough game.
The Phillies acquire a good quad of pitching prospects, which should help them in the near future, and a position player in Jerry Sands, who might be able to play at third for them in the future and at age 24, is almost major league ready. This is a solid package for Hamels, but the Phillies may want more value if they have to leverage the deal on a trade-n-sign.
2nd Trade- The Dodgers need an outfield bat and a good pitcher. I don't think Tony Gwynn Jr. should be starting on a contending team, and they might want to package together Hamels and Victorino to fill their roster holes. They are giving up a plethora of prospects, but shoring up their roster. This move would easily put them in contention for the World Series, making their lineup stronger and putting a second dominant left hander into the rotation.
The Phillies are getting a titanic haul in this trade. They receive 3 premium pitching prospects and 2 very good position prospects to help give their farm system depth. The chances are becoming smaller everyday that they wait to resign Cole Hamels, and Victorino is going to become a big expensive on a team that may not want to pay him $10-12 million to start.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Trade Idea Series PT 1: Cole Hamels Blockbuster to the Rangers
Cole Hamels is the best pitcher on the trading block right now. He is only 28 and in a contract year, only 5 months away from signing a contract worth well over $100 million. He has some great stuff combined with determination and the old school pitching style and grit. When the Phillies start actively shopping him, they are assured to be berated by offers from other teams that want Hamels leading them down the last stretch of the season. Some teams may want to complete a trade only if Hamels signs an extension, so that may hamper the trade package that the Phillies will receive for him. In my opinion, there are 6 teams that will actively pursue and try to acquire him. I am only excluding the Nationals because of the incident with Hamels earlier in the year with Harper. The teams include the Rangers, Dodgers, and the Yankees.
Rangers:
The Rangers are always in the market for improvements even though they have the most formidable team in the league. It is already rumored that they have scouts at the games of the top market stocks in Zack Greinke and Cole Hamels. The Phillies are getting close to the point where they might be selling off their aging stars that are about to hit free agency and maybe even the ones that are under contract for a couple more years(ie Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Placido Polanco, Carlos Ruiz, Joe Blanton)
Here is my trade proposal...
LHP Cole Hamels to the Rangers for LHP Martin Perez, 3B Mike Olt, RHP Neil Ramirez, RHP Tanner Scheppers, C Jorge Alfaro
This is a pretty hefty package for what might only be a half season rental of Cole Hamels, but the Rangers are not afraid to make big impact moves to improve their ball club down the stretch and make moves that will matter mostly in the playoffs. They have made a move similar to what I have proposed for Hamels when they traded for Cliff Lee. The Rangers are itching for their first World Series championship, and they will make sure every facet of their team is as solid as can be going into the playoffs so they do not falter again as they have the past two years.
The Phillies are starting to age, and the chances of them resigning Hamels seem to get smaller and smaller as each day passes. The Phillies are getting old, and this year is showing what weaknesses they have and what they need to improve to keep in the running with the NL East, which seems to get more competitive every week. They have said that they want a 3rd basemen, catcher, and high upside pitcher, and this trade brings in all three. It would be wise for them to trade Hamels and shore up their franchise instead of waiting until the offseason where there is a high chance that they will not resign him.
Rangers:
The Rangers are always in the market for improvements even though they have the most formidable team in the league. It is already rumored that they have scouts at the games of the top market stocks in Zack Greinke and Cole Hamels. The Phillies are getting close to the point where they might be selling off their aging stars that are about to hit free agency and maybe even the ones that are under contract for a couple more years(ie Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Placido Polanco, Carlos Ruiz, Joe Blanton)
Here is my trade proposal...
LHP Cole Hamels to the Rangers for LHP Martin Perez, 3B Mike Olt, RHP Neil Ramirez, RHP Tanner Scheppers, C Jorge Alfaro
This is a pretty hefty package for what might only be a half season rental of Cole Hamels, but the Rangers are not afraid to make big impact moves to improve their ball club down the stretch and make moves that will matter mostly in the playoffs. They have made a move similar to what I have proposed for Hamels when they traded for Cliff Lee. The Rangers are itching for their first World Series championship, and they will make sure every facet of their team is as solid as can be going into the playoffs so they do not falter again as they have the past two years.
The Phillies are starting to age, and the chances of them resigning Hamels seem to get smaller and smaller as each day passes. The Phillies are getting old, and this year is showing what weaknesses they have and what they need to improve to keep in the running with the NL East, which seems to get more competitive every week. They have said that they want a 3rd basemen, catcher, and high upside pitcher, and this trade brings in all three. It would be wise for them to trade Hamels and shore up their franchise instead of waiting until the offseason where there is a high chance that they will not resign him.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Trade Reaction: Kevin Youkilis traded to the White Sox
Kevin Youkilis and cash(rumored to be $5.5 million) has been traded to the White Sox for UT Brent Lillibridge and RHP Zack Stewart.
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The White Sox have acquired what might be our answer to third base for the year. Orlando Hudson and Brent Morel have been largely ineffective the whole year and the production the Sox have taken from them is dismissible. The Sox only had to trade away our utility man and one of our pitchers that seems to not be able to put it together for more than one start in a row.
The main piece the Red Sox have acquired in this deal is the utility man, Brent Lillibridge. He can play pretty much every position and has shown flashes of power, hitting 13 homers in 216 PA last year. Zack Stewart has been very bad this year and will spend time at AAA working on his sinker until he can get back onto the Red Sox rotation or bullpen. They may have been looking for prospects, but it is most likely this is easily the best package they could obtain for Youkilis, who is having the worst season of his career. I personally think they moved him quickly so they did not have to bench him, to allow Adrian Gonzalez a move back to first base so they do not have to suffer through his terrible defense in right and open up space for outfielders coming off the disabled list.
Overall Verdict: Tied as of Now
The White Sox have acquired a third basemen that will give them more production and good defense. They do not have to pay him much because the Red Sox are picking up a good chunk off his tab. They had to give up a super utility man in Lillibridge and lost the main player they acquired in the Edwin Jackson trade at the deadline last year. The Red Sox are showing that they are trying to win and not keep the team together for past seasons. They have lost a longtime rock from their lineup, but acquired two players to fill and and help them compete. If Zack Stewart comes back and pitches like he was showing at the end of last year, the Red Sox might win this deal. If Youkilis goes back to his old production and plays solid defense, the White Sox will win this trade. The Red Sox do not miss out a whole bunch on Youkilis because he was suffering in the clubhouse and had no spot in the starting lineup.
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The White Sox have acquired what might be our answer to third base for the year. Orlando Hudson and Brent Morel have been largely ineffective the whole year and the production the Sox have taken from them is dismissible. The Sox only had to trade away our utility man and one of our pitchers that seems to not be able to put it together for more than one start in a row.
The main piece the Red Sox have acquired in this deal is the utility man, Brent Lillibridge. He can play pretty much every position and has shown flashes of power, hitting 13 homers in 216 PA last year. Zack Stewart has been very bad this year and will spend time at AAA working on his sinker until he can get back onto the Red Sox rotation or bullpen. They may have been looking for prospects, but it is most likely this is easily the best package they could obtain for Youkilis, who is having the worst season of his career. I personally think they moved him quickly so they did not have to bench him, to allow Adrian Gonzalez a move back to first base so they do not have to suffer through his terrible defense in right and open up space for outfielders coming off the disabled list.
Overall Verdict: Tied as of Now
The White Sox have acquired a third basemen that will give them more production and good defense. They do not have to pay him much because the Red Sox are picking up a good chunk off his tab. They had to give up a super utility man in Lillibridge and lost the main player they acquired in the Edwin Jackson trade at the deadline last year. The Red Sox are showing that they are trying to win and not keep the team together for past seasons. They have lost a longtime rock from their lineup, but acquired two players to fill and and help them compete. If Zack Stewart comes back and pitches like he was showing at the end of last year, the Red Sox might win this deal. If Youkilis goes back to his old production and plays solid defense, the White Sox will win this trade. The Red Sox do not miss out a whole bunch on Youkilis because he was suffering in the clubhouse and had no spot in the starting lineup.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Trade Idea: Ryan Dempster to the Orioles
The Orioles have become one of the highest contending teams in the AL East almost overnight from last year. In many baseball circles, they weren't even in talks for finishing in third place, let alone being one of the betters teams in the AL East this year. The two things keeping the Orioles up this season are their relief pitching, but most of all, their hitting. If the Orioles plan on competiting all season long and having a chance to go deep into the playoffs, they are going to need a solid starting pitcher to help anchor the staff for the long run. Since this is their first season competing in a very long time, they might not want to empty the farm on what might be a fluke season, so if I was Dan Duquette, I would try and add a somewhat easy to obtain, proven starter.
The Cubs are in the midst of one of their worst seasons in a couple of years, leading the National League in losses. They need to gain prospects, and they have a couple of good pitchers reaching free agency. Ryan Dempster is in the middle of what seems like a career year, but may only be an illusion since he is 35. He is owed $14 million this year, which will make the asking price on him lower unless the Cubs pick up a significant amount of money. He also has 10 and 5 rights, giving him more leverage in trade talks. Although he may want to remain in Chicago, it might be in his interest to try and win a ring before he retires, so he might be open to being traded to a contender.
Here is my trade proposal....
RHP Ryan Dempster and $6 million to the Orioles for RHP Parker Bridwell, OF L.J. Hoes, RHP Kyle Simon
I think this a fairly even trade. The Orioles get a proven starter and the Cubs get a trio of prospects that may be part of the future team. Ryan Dempster may get what he wants by being traded to a contender, but may exercise his 10 and 5 rights so he doesn't have to go to Baltimore. Also, if the Cubs extend Matt Garza, Dempster may one, if not, the best starter on the trade market, driving the price up on him, maybe making him too expensive for teams like the Orioles. If the Orioles make it to the playoffs after acquiring Dempster, they might extend him an offer for a 2 or 3 year deal to keep him around, providing them with the valuable veteran presence in the rotation and what might be 200 innings of 3.50 ERA ball.
The Cubs are in the midst of one of their worst seasons in a couple of years, leading the National League in losses. They need to gain prospects, and they have a couple of good pitchers reaching free agency. Ryan Dempster is in the middle of what seems like a career year, but may only be an illusion since he is 35. He is owed $14 million this year, which will make the asking price on him lower unless the Cubs pick up a significant amount of money. He also has 10 and 5 rights, giving him more leverage in trade talks. Although he may want to remain in Chicago, it might be in his interest to try and win a ring before he retires, so he might be open to being traded to a contender.
Here is my trade proposal....
RHP Ryan Dempster and $6 million to the Orioles for RHP Parker Bridwell, OF L.J. Hoes, RHP Kyle Simon
I think this a fairly even trade. The Orioles get a proven starter and the Cubs get a trio of prospects that may be part of the future team. Ryan Dempster may get what he wants by being traded to a contender, but may exercise his 10 and 5 rights so he doesn't have to go to Baltimore. Also, if the Cubs extend Matt Garza, Dempster may one, if not, the best starter on the trade market, driving the price up on him, maybe making him too expensive for teams like the Orioles. If the Orioles make it to the playoffs after acquiring Dempster, they might extend him an offer for a 2 or 3 year deal to keep him around, providing them with the valuable veteran presence in the rotation and what might be 200 innings of 3.50 ERA ball.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
I'm Back!
After a long break from this, I am back. I am sorry I missed so much time, but I have been really busy because of school and plan to be blogging in full action from now on.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Trade Idea: Matt Garza to the Tigers
Whether Cubs' fans and management want to say it, the Cubs are on full rebuilding mode right now. Epstein has made a point that he wants to keep Garza, but if the right trade comes along, he will pull the trigger and send Garza packing.
The Tigers have made it to the playoffs and are making a big impact and developing their team into an AL Central Dynasty. They added one of the biggest and baddest slugging first basemen, Prince Fielder, and may be looking to consolidate their rotation to make another push and guarantee a playoff spot. They might also want to add a bullpen piece in this trade and the Cubs have many that they can salvage for prospects.
The Cubs want to add depth to their minor leagues and get some legitimate prospects to fill their farm system. As mentioned above, they have both starting pitchers and bullpen pitchers that they can send away for a couple of prospects. This makes them and the Tigers almost perfect trading partners. Matt Garza has $9.5 Million on his contract for next year, but the Cubs might not have to eat much, if any, to the Tigers, because they are going all in now, and might not really mind adding that much for a strong starting pitcher. The Cubs might want to absorb some salary to get more prospects in the trade.
Here is my trade proposal(s)...
Matt Garza and $4 Million to the Tigers for Jacob Turner, Kevin Eichhorn, and Adam Wilk
or
Matt Garza, Jeff Samardzija, and $4 Million to the Tigers for Jacob Turner, Don Kelley, Casey Crosby, and Adam Wilk
I think both trades would be fairly even considering the amount that Epstein is asking for each and the equal want of Mike Illitch to win a World Series before he dies. The Cubs free up a little money, and acquire good pitching prospects in both trades, and even get a very useful utility man in Kelley if they include a bullpen piece. If the Tigers want to make more strides, I think they really need another starting pitcher to consolidate and make a 1-2-3-4 punch in their rotation. They will have to make a commitment to Garza after the season if he performs well, and they might get burdened with the asking prices that Edwin Jackson had demanded earlier this offseason.
The Tigers have made it to the playoffs and are making a big impact and developing their team into an AL Central Dynasty. They added one of the biggest and baddest slugging first basemen, Prince Fielder, and may be looking to consolidate their rotation to make another push and guarantee a playoff spot. They might also want to add a bullpen piece in this trade and the Cubs have many that they can salvage for prospects.
The Cubs want to add depth to their minor leagues and get some legitimate prospects to fill their farm system. As mentioned above, they have both starting pitchers and bullpen pitchers that they can send away for a couple of prospects. This makes them and the Tigers almost perfect trading partners. Matt Garza has $9.5 Million on his contract for next year, but the Cubs might not have to eat much, if any, to the Tigers, because they are going all in now, and might not really mind adding that much for a strong starting pitcher. The Cubs might want to absorb some salary to get more prospects in the trade.
Here is my trade proposal(s)...
Matt Garza and $4 Million to the Tigers for Jacob Turner, Kevin Eichhorn, and Adam Wilk
or
Matt Garza, Jeff Samardzija, and $4 Million to the Tigers for Jacob Turner, Don Kelley, Casey Crosby, and Adam Wilk
I think both trades would be fairly even considering the amount that Epstein is asking for each and the equal want of Mike Illitch to win a World Series before he dies. The Cubs free up a little money, and acquire good pitching prospects in both trades, and even get a very useful utility man in Kelley if they include a bullpen piece. If the Tigers want to make more strides, I think they really need another starting pitcher to consolidate and make a 1-2-3-4 punch in their rotation. They will have to make a commitment to Garza after the season if he performs well, and they might get burdened with the asking prices that Edwin Jackson had demanded earlier this offseason.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Trade Idea: Brandon Belt to the Red Sox
I know that many people aren't very high on trading young talent for young talent, but I think that this trade should be an exception.
The Red Sox have recently gone to high spending ways and have not developed many players well. They need to go a little younger instead of keeping up with the astronomical spending Yankees. They have a void in right field and could use a nice young player to stick in everyday that has high upside and team control. Belt is only 23, so he will be able to play passable right field defense for quite and while, and his bat would be an improvement over Darnell McDonald and Ryan Sweeney.
I know the Giants fans won't like this trade much, but I think that they could net some good prospects, and maybe even cash for the extensions of Matt Cain and Tim Lincecum(After his 2 year extension is up) that will come up. Brandon Belt is blocked in all positions, and another prospect in Brett Pill, is ready to take the leap and be a full time first basemen. If they looked ahead, they will notice that they have a perfectly viable first basemen in Pill and if he recovers, Aubrey Huff. Buster Posey may also have to make a permanent move to first base to not risk long term injury and the derailment of his career. The Giants lack quality catching prospects behind him and the most skilled backup is Eli Whiteside.
Here is my trade proposal....
Brandon Belt to the Red Sox for Ryan Lavarnway, Brandon Jacobs, Stolmy Pimentel, and $6 Million.
I think that this is a fair trade from a neutral standpoint. Giants fans will not want to give up Belt, but they might be acquiring their next catcher if Posey moves to first base, and a good outfield prospect to go along with a starting prospect with high upside. They also get a little money in the deal, which could go for the future extensions of Cain and Lincecum. Red Sox executives might not want to part with the money because they are tight in budget, but they have a good catcher in Jarrod Saltalamacchia ahead of Lavarnway. I think an overall even trade for both teams, the Red Sox are getting a strong rated outfielder that can hit, and the Giants are getting some good prospects, cash, and they still have two first basemen that can produce.
The Red Sox have recently gone to high spending ways and have not developed many players well. They need to go a little younger instead of keeping up with the astronomical spending Yankees. They have a void in right field and could use a nice young player to stick in everyday that has high upside and team control. Belt is only 23, so he will be able to play passable right field defense for quite and while, and his bat would be an improvement over Darnell McDonald and Ryan Sweeney.
I know the Giants fans won't like this trade much, but I think that they could net some good prospects, and maybe even cash for the extensions of Matt Cain and Tim Lincecum(After his 2 year extension is up) that will come up. Brandon Belt is blocked in all positions, and another prospect in Brett Pill, is ready to take the leap and be a full time first basemen. If they looked ahead, they will notice that they have a perfectly viable first basemen in Pill and if he recovers, Aubrey Huff. Buster Posey may also have to make a permanent move to first base to not risk long term injury and the derailment of his career. The Giants lack quality catching prospects behind him and the most skilled backup is Eli Whiteside.
Here is my trade proposal....
Brandon Belt to the Red Sox for Ryan Lavarnway, Brandon Jacobs, Stolmy Pimentel, and $6 Million.
I think that this is a fair trade from a neutral standpoint. Giants fans will not want to give up Belt, but they might be acquiring their next catcher if Posey moves to first base, and a good outfield prospect to go along with a starting prospect with high upside. They also get a little money in the deal, which could go for the future extensions of Cain and Lincecum. Red Sox executives might not want to part with the money because they are tight in budget, but they have a good catcher in Jarrod Saltalamacchia ahead of Lavarnway. I think an overall even trade for both teams, the Red Sox are getting a strong rated outfielder that can hit, and the Giants are getting some good prospects, cash, and they still have two first basemen that can produce.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Trade Idea: Wandy Rodriguez to Angels
The Angels have added most to their team this offseason, but they still have a question at the end of the rotation, Jerome Williams. They are ready to make a big push and contend for the next decade, with a rotation that rivals that of the Phillies. They could consolidate their rotation to having the number five spot filled with a good lefty, Rodriguez.
The Astros are coming off a season in which they won less than 60 games! They really need to restock their impoverished farm system, and they have no need for a number 3 lefty starter when they have no chance of contending. They should restock while they still have value in Rodriguez.
I think Rodriguez would be a good addition to solidify the last spot of the rotation. The Angels have the ability to pick up most if not all of Rodriguez's contract, so they might not have to give up as many good prospects than if they Astros picked up a good chunk. His 2014 option goes from being a team option to a player option if he is traded, so the Angels would have to hope that he remains productive to be able to actually use $13 million of their money.
Here is my trade proposal....
Wandy Rodriguez and $7 Million to the Angels for Daniel Tillman, Alexi Amarista, Donn Roach
I think this is a fair trade, and for 3 of the top 20 prospects in the Angels system, this might be even, because none of them have an eta of beyond 2014, so they will be producing for the Astros soon. Rodriguez is getting towards the latter years of his career, and he might want to play for a contender that has a legitimate chance for the next 7 seasons to go to and win the World Series.
The Astros are coming off a season in which they won less than 60 games! They really need to restock their impoverished farm system, and they have no need for a number 3 lefty starter when they have no chance of contending. They should restock while they still have value in Rodriguez.
I think Rodriguez would be a good addition to solidify the last spot of the rotation. The Angels have the ability to pick up most if not all of Rodriguez's contract, so they might not have to give up as many good prospects than if they Astros picked up a good chunk. His 2014 option goes from being a team option to a player option if he is traded, so the Angels would have to hope that he remains productive to be able to actually use $13 million of their money.
Here is my trade proposal....
Wandy Rodriguez and $7 Million to the Angels for Daniel Tillman, Alexi Amarista, Donn Roach
I think this is a fair trade, and for 3 of the top 20 prospects in the Angels system, this might be even, because none of them have an eta of beyond 2014, so they will be producing for the Astros soon. Rodriguez is getting towards the latter years of his career, and he might want to play for a contender that has a legitimate chance for the next 7 seasons to go to and win the World Series.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Ryan Braun wins Drug Test Appeal
Ryan Braun has won his appeal to to league for his failed drug test, which posted record numbers for the amount of testosterone he had when he took the test. This will allow him to play the entire season through, and will not miss any games. This has given the Brewers more power for the season and they will be in contention all year, not missing their best bat. I think this is a great win for Braun, and it shows the instability of some of the tests that the league does. I personally think that this was a faulty test, and he was just a victim of an executive with the MLB not keeping his mouth shut about something that was not set in stone. Good for Braun, although I don't think a haze will ever be lifted from his career involving this incident. Good luck on the season Ryan!
Roy Oswalt makes Season Decision
Roy Oswalt has decided to remain unsigned until midseason next year and hope to sign for a contender. He has been increasingly difficult and trying to sign with a team throughout this offseason, turning down a multi-year offer from the Pirates and not listening to some teams offers. He has chosen the way he wants to go, and miss some paydays until midseason when he can hopefully find a roster spot with a contending team.
He had very good splits when coming back from injury in late August and September, and could have probably found a contract with nearly any team if he didn't keep his asking price so high. He is missing out on a potential payday, but I don't think he cares as much for the money as he cares that he might get the chance to go to the World Series. I don't think this is a good decision, but it's what he wants to do, and maybe he might be able to land a contract with contending team as a starter midseason and carry the weight, from what I am guessing will be from an injured pitcher. I don't think it will be good unless he is pitching in an independent league, because he might have to undergo a small stint in the minor leagues before he is ready to face major league batters again. I predict that he may be with the Red Sox by the trade deadline due to the recent need for pitching from Boston.
He had very good splits when coming back from injury in late August and September, and could have probably found a contract with nearly any team if he didn't keep his asking price so high. He is missing out on a potential payday, but I don't think he cares as much for the money as he cares that he might get the chance to go to the World Series. I don't think this is a good decision, but it's what he wants to do, and maybe he might be able to land a contract with contending team as a starter midseason and carry the weight, from what I am guessing will be from an injured pitcher. I don't think it will be good unless he is pitching in an independent league, because he might have to undergo a small stint in the minor leagues before he is ready to face major league batters again. I predict that he may be with the Red Sox by the trade deadline due to the recent need for pitching from Boston.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Trade Idea: 3 Team Blockbuster
Building on my idea of the AJ Pierzynski trade yesterday, I was thinking of a trade that might be good for the deadline this year IF the White Sox are out of contention, the Pirates are fighting for the title, and the Red Sox are tight in on the race. Some of the players I mention are mostly involved if they rebound well enough this year to add some value.
The Red Sox always need pitching at the deadline, and the Pirates might need to fill a few holes to make a push. The White Sox will be needing to add some depth to their farm system and maybe just shed some salary if they are not drawing enough to pay their players. The Pirates would mostly be going for depth while the Red Sox are looking for pieces to make the push.
Here is my proposal...
Red Sox get Gavin Floyd, Adam Dunn(If he rebounds), cash($6 Million), Clint Barmes, Casey McGhee
Pirates get AJ Pierzynski, Alfredo Aceves, Jesse Crain, Kevin Youkilis, cash($3 Million)
White Sox get Jose Iglesias(Red Sox), Pedro Alvarez(Pirates), Daniel McCutchen, Sean Coyle(Red Sox), Tony Sanchez(Pirates), Bryan Morris(Pirates)
I think that this is a fair trade considering that this would occur at the deadline and the Pirates might be at the first opportunity to go for a division title in a long time, and the Red Sox will want to ensure that they get a playoff spot after the horrible collapse last year. The White Sox get some goods prospects, although most of them are the age to go to the major league roster instead of spending more time in the minors. The White Sox get unburdened from some big salaries, and have some good young players to take roster spots.
The Red Sox always need pitching at the deadline, and the Pirates might need to fill a few holes to make a push. The White Sox will be needing to add some depth to their farm system and maybe just shed some salary if they are not drawing enough to pay their players. The Pirates would mostly be going for depth while the Red Sox are looking for pieces to make the push.
Here is my proposal...
Red Sox get Gavin Floyd, Adam Dunn(If he rebounds), cash($6 Million), Clint Barmes, Casey McGhee
Pirates get AJ Pierzynski, Alfredo Aceves, Jesse Crain, Kevin Youkilis, cash($3 Million)
White Sox get Jose Iglesias(Red Sox), Pedro Alvarez(Pirates), Daniel McCutchen, Sean Coyle(Red Sox), Tony Sanchez(Pirates), Bryan Morris(Pirates)
I think that this is a fair trade considering that this would occur at the deadline and the Pirates might be at the first opportunity to go for a division title in a long time, and the Red Sox will want to ensure that they get a playoff spot after the horrible collapse last year. The White Sox get some goods prospects, although most of them are the age to go to the major league roster instead of spending more time in the minors. The White Sox get unburdened from some big salaries, and have some good young players to take roster spots.
Athletics sign Manny Rameriz
The Oakland Athletics have signed Manny Rameriz to a minor league deal with an invitation to Spring Training, with a pro-rated $500k if he makes the roster.
I don't think this is a risky signing at all, considering that he is just trying to make a comeback to baseball. He is a very talented player, although he can be a drama show also. I don't think this is a really good singing for the Athletics because they have a number of young guys that are vying for outfield spots, and bringing in 39 year old Manny won't help their development.
Unless Manny returns to being old MVP-Caliber Manny after he serves his suspension, this singing will not do anything but stunt the growth for Athletics young players. This is mostly a publicity stunt for the Athletics.
I don't think this is a risky signing at all, considering that he is just trying to make a comeback to baseball. He is a very talented player, although he can be a drama show also. I don't think this is a really good singing for the Athletics because they have a number of young guys that are vying for outfield spots, and bringing in 39 year old Manny won't help their development.
Unless Manny returns to being old MVP-Caliber Manny after he serves his suspension, this singing will not do anything but stunt the growth for Athletics young players. This is mostly a publicity stunt for the Athletics.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Trade Idea: AJ Pierzynski to the Pirates
The Pirates had a breakthrough season last year, actually leading the division for a couple days midsummer. This was a huge improvement over 16 straight losing seasons, and way better than their 57 win season the year before. They crash and burned for the remaining games after taking the division lead. This offseason they have improved their team, adding A.J. Burnett yesterday and by adding mediocre free agents. The one place that they lost the most talent though, is catcher. They didn't exercise the option on Ryan Doumit, and didn't resign Chris Snyder. The free agent market didn't have many good catchers, but they didn't exactly pick up a game changing catcher in Rod Barajas. I think that they shouldn't be content with a 35 year old journeyman catcher behind the plate.
The White Sox had a pretty bad season this year. They were consistently out of first place by a few games, and the fans had to suffer through Alex Rios and Adam Dunn's horrible season. It will be almost impossible for Dunn to repeat his performance, and no one knows how good Rios is going to be. This offseason, the Sox had not added many players, the big pickup being Kosuke Fukudome. The Sox have been unloading some talent for salary relief rather than prospects, which does not make much sense considering the state of the team and its farm system. The Sox are not going to the playoffs this year and maybe for the next couple of years also. One of the players that is in his contract year, and probably not going to get resigned in the upcoming offseason, is AJ Pierzynski.
Pierzynski would be a good fit for the Pirates because he is a solid left handed bat and very rarely is unhealthy enough to take the field. He hasn't batted below .270 the last 4 years and has consistently been cutting down on his strikeout totals. He would be a good fit on the team that needs a good left handed bat and a good catcher. I don't think that with what the Sox have been doing in trades, that the Pirates would have to give up much, but I think if the Sox had the potential to get a decent prospect, they might eat a large portion of the $6 Million owed to him.
Here is my trade proposal....
AJ Pierzynski and cash($4 M) to the Pirates for Tony Sanchez and Kyle McPherson
Might be a little much, but if the Pirates are able to get a division title and Pierzynski bats .300 again, it might seem like an OK deal. Sanchez and McPherson are both 23, so this might be a move for a the Sox if they are able to compete in 4 years, which should not be out of the realm of possibility with their payroll.
The White Sox had a pretty bad season this year. They were consistently out of first place by a few games, and the fans had to suffer through Alex Rios and Adam Dunn's horrible season. It will be almost impossible for Dunn to repeat his performance, and no one knows how good Rios is going to be. This offseason, the Sox had not added many players, the big pickup being Kosuke Fukudome. The Sox have been unloading some talent for salary relief rather than prospects, which does not make much sense considering the state of the team and its farm system. The Sox are not going to the playoffs this year and maybe for the next couple of years also. One of the players that is in his contract year, and probably not going to get resigned in the upcoming offseason, is AJ Pierzynski.
Pierzynski would be a good fit for the Pirates because he is a solid left handed bat and very rarely is unhealthy enough to take the field. He hasn't batted below .270 the last 4 years and has consistently been cutting down on his strikeout totals. He would be a good fit on the team that needs a good left handed bat and a good catcher. I don't think that with what the Sox have been doing in trades, that the Pirates would have to give up much, but I think if the Sox had the potential to get a decent prospect, they might eat a large portion of the $6 Million owed to him.
Here is my trade proposal....
AJ Pierzynski and cash($4 M) to the Pirates for Tony Sanchez and Kyle McPherson
Might be a little much, but if the Pirates are able to get a division title and Pierzynski bats .300 again, it might seem like an OK deal. Sanchez and McPherson are both 23, so this might be a move for a the Sox if they are able to compete in 4 years, which should not be out of the realm of possibility with their payroll.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Trade Reaction: AJ Burnett to the Pirates
Hey everyone that is reading, sorry I haven't been posting in such a long time, I suffered a bad concussion in wrestling and haven't been able to look at a computer for a long time. I hope to get back to writing more and spreading my ideas!
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A.J. Burnett, cash to the Pirates for Diego Moreno and Exicardo Cayones
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A.J. Burnett, cash to the Pirates for Diego Moreno and Exicardo Cayones
The Pittsburgh Pirates have set in place a deal with the New York Yankees to acquire AJ Burnett and cash for two lower ranked prospects(Diego Moreno and Exicardo Cayones). Moreno has been said to be able to reach 98 MPH on the radar gun but has many control problems and Cayones has had trouble developing as a hitter.
The Pirates have finally been able to acquire a big name, proven starter to incorporate into their rotation. I think that this is a good trade for the Pirates because they have not been able to draw any good pitching free agents, but this move shows that they are willing to expand payroll to take a shot at the division title. They did not have to give up any superb prospects and are paying Burnett what would have been set to give to any free agent starter, so they have filled their needs. Many say that going back to the National League helps a pitcher's numbers and may put him back into his old pitching ways.
The Yankees have been trying to free up payroll to add some bench bats to their team. They did pickup two prospects, that if they get their act into order, good provide some good upside. The trade also benefits Burnett, because he has a chance to start in the rotation again instead of being relegated to mopping up for the Yankees. I think the Yankees just wanted to move on from Burnett and free up the little amount of money they could to fill in their bench.
Overall Verdict: Pirates Win
The Pirates do not have to pay much to keep Burnett in the rotation and gave up two prospects that haven't been working out for them. They are still able to keep their budget going, because they money they had saved for a free agent starter that didn't sign with them. I don't think there is much room for the Pirates to screw up on this deal unless one of the prospects they traded away turn into a great player. Had free agent starters decided to not avoid Pittsburgh like its a plague, Burnett would not be on his way out of New York.
The Pirates have finally been able to acquire a big name, proven starter to incorporate into their rotation. I think that this is a good trade for the Pirates because they have not been able to draw any good pitching free agents, but this move shows that they are willing to expand payroll to take a shot at the division title. They did not have to give up any superb prospects and are paying Burnett what would have been set to give to any free agent starter, so they have filled their needs. Many say that going back to the National League helps a pitcher's numbers and may put him back into his old pitching ways.
The Yankees have been trying to free up payroll to add some bench bats to their team. They did pickup two prospects, that if they get their act into order, good provide some good upside. The trade also benefits Burnett, because he has a chance to start in the rotation again instead of being relegated to mopping up for the Yankees. I think the Yankees just wanted to move on from Burnett and free up the little amount of money they could to fill in their bench.
Overall Verdict: Pirates Win
The Pirates do not have to pay much to keep Burnett in the rotation and gave up two prospects that haven't been working out for them. They are still able to keep their budget going, because they money they had saved for a free agent starter that didn't sign with them. I don't think there is much room for the Pirates to screw up on this deal unless one of the prospects they traded away turn into a great player. Had free agent starters decided to not avoid Pittsburgh like its a plague, Burnett would not be on his way out of New York.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Trade Reaction: Carlos Zambrano to the Marlins
I apologize for not being active, I wasn't able to write for a bit, but here I go again.
The Chicago Cubs have traded Carlos Zambrano and cash to the Marlins for Chris Volstad.
I think the Cubs just wanted to get rid of Zambrano to stop all these incidents and to try and bring in a new era for the Cubs. They had to pick up a significant portion of his contract to get him out of town even though he can be a good pitcher if his emotions don't keep him from taking the mound.
The Marlins gave up a young pitcher who has been starting since he was 21. He has a pretty good track record. Mid 4 ERA's combined with 150+ innings being eaten. He had a rough year last year, but he may be able to rebound. He may not pitch as an ace, but he can eat enough innings to be a number 3 or 4 starter. He is only 24, so he still has time to improve.
Overall Verdict: Tied
The Cubs got rid of Zambrano and acquired a young proven starter to eat up innings. They had to eat a large portion of his contract, but they will no longer have to deal with his personality. The Marlins acquire another big name for the new ball park, and they will not have to pay him like a star, that will be at home with Guillen and other Venezuelan players. I will be looking out for him to start producing now that he is out of ChiTown.
The Chicago Cubs have traded Carlos Zambrano and cash to the Marlins for Chris Volstad.
I think the Cubs just wanted to get rid of Zambrano to stop all these incidents and to try and bring in a new era for the Cubs. They had to pick up a significant portion of his contract to get him out of town even though he can be a good pitcher if his emotions don't keep him from taking the mound.
The Marlins gave up a young pitcher who has been starting since he was 21. He has a pretty good track record. Mid 4 ERA's combined with 150+ innings being eaten. He had a rough year last year, but he may be able to rebound. He may not pitch as an ace, but he can eat enough innings to be a number 3 or 4 starter. He is only 24, so he still has time to improve.
Overall Verdict: Tied
The Cubs got rid of Zambrano and acquired a young proven starter to eat up innings. They had to eat a large portion of his contract, but they will no longer have to deal with his personality. The Marlins acquire another big name for the new ball park, and they will not have to pay him like a star, that will be at home with Guillen and other Venezuelan players. I will be looking out for him to start producing now that he is out of ChiTown.
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