Write Derek at drksmart @ gmail.com
Write Phil at phil.bencomo @ gmail.com
Columns
Sites
Fantasy
Cubs Blog Army website
Big Media
More Media
Hangouts
Baseball Toaster runs on some experimental software called Fairpole. It's still under development.
For more information, please visit the Fairpole blog, or read the FAQ.
Seriously, that's all I've got, other than being completely thrilled that the Cubs pulled off a deal for the only other true ace-level pitcher available. Yes, he's fragile, so this is high-risk, high-reward, but to me, a pitcher of a healthy Harden's caliber is what is required for this team to reach the next level.
I'm a little giddy right now, so I'll have to come back and look at this with some perspective later (I'll definitely miss Gallagher - I think he's got a bright future), but for now, I'm just going to swim in this buzz.
Murton is totally blocked and not that young, and Donaldson is both a throw-in AND blocked, so as far as having this come back to bite the Cubs, this is really about Gallagher and Patterson. I really don't think EP is going to be a star, but if he is, more power to him. Gallagher is a nice pitcher, but both Harden AND Gaudin could be better than him, so it's moot. This comes down to the Cubs trading from a position of strength (offense) to get two pitchers for one while improving the top line of the rotation. I really think this is a win-win deal for both teams (just like the Tribe-Crew trade).
What do they do with Marquis? Bullpen duty, #5 or trade bait? Not that it matters much. Hendry brought in Harden. And held out until Gaudin got put in the deal.
Now that's what I call The Art of the Deal. And the A's got guys they can use right away as well, at a price they can afford.
To comment, please log in.
Not a member? Register!