MLB 2011: Hot Stove Talks

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We are less than one week away from the MLB Trade deadline and I decided to have a compilation article with Jeff at TwentyThreesThoughts on our thoughts of the current MLB players being rumored to move.

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CARLOS BELTRAN

TSG: Beltran is a great pickup for any team looking for a good outfielder for the rest of the season. If you think he is going to repeat what he did for the Astros in 2004, you’re sadly mistaken. If you think he’s going to be a quality outfielder, then you are right. He is a solid fit for the Braves, he can slide right into CF and give Heyward some days off in right.

23: At one point in time I would’ve trusted Beltran, but it’s 2011 and I’m smarter than I used to be. I don’t think I could give up major prospects for a 3 month rental, unless I knew I was going to win the World Series. Beltran has a no trade clause and will choose where he wants to go. I don’t touch Beltran unless I’m certain I can afford the prospects in return for a player that has a history of injuries. Prognosis: Stay Away.

HEATH BELL

TSG: Heath Bell has had too many Heath Bars. That being said, I’d let this guy close for my team any day. In his two years as a closer he has racked up 40+ saves. This year he is already at 29. If he goes to Texas to set up for Neftali Feliz, they will have as good a 8th, 9th inning combo as anyone in baseball.

23: Nothing scares me more than trading for a closer on a losing team. He doesn’t face the same pressure and scrutiny as someone in the pennant race. I think Bell is a great pitcher and has the stuff to succeed anywhere. I question his 2.45 ERA this season but the market is bare I would do what it takes to trade for him. I would be more comfortable with him in a set-up role but you can never have enough arms in the bullpen especially come October. PS: I’ve never had a Heath Bar in my life, I wonder if I am missing out?

B.J. UPTON

TSG: If B.J. Upton could get on base there isn’t a team in baseball that wouldn’t want him. However he’s hitting .229 and has a .310 OBP. Pair Upton with a disciplined hitting team and you could have something special. Put him in the middle of the Phillies’ lineup between Howard and Ibanez and you could either have a rally killed immediately, or have one sparked just as fast. The upside is very high, but the downside is tremendous. I might have to pass on B.J. Upton. Also, BJ Upton was Cameron Maybin before Cameron Maybin was Cameron Maybin.

23: The biggest question is potential vs. production. Upton is full of potential and while he produces he also drives you insane with his occasional laziness and attitude. Upton has mega-star talent with power, speed and a rocket arm. His main problem is consistency. I wonder if being in Tampa Bay too long has done him harm. I think a new environment will help, he needs a hitter friendly ball park with a grass field. I would take a shot on Upton.

UBALDO JIMENEZ

23: I hate to be a cynical person but I don’t see what everyone else sees in Ubaldo. I think last year was somewhat of a fluke. I do think he is going to be the best pitcher available and that does carry some value. He throws incredibly hard and again that carries some value. But he has a 4.20 ERA pitching in the NL West. His asking price is very high from what I’ve read, I don’t think I would jeopardize my farm system for a guy that may or may not put it all together. Vote No on Ubaldo.

TSG: Like Jeff, I don’t know what people see in Ubaldo Jimenez. 2010 was a blip and not the beginning of a trend. Also, his windup scares me, I feel like he is a ticking time bomb to end up on the DL.

RICH HARDEN

TSG: He’s still playing? Just kidding, the odds of him going on the DL were as good as Chris Young’s to start the year, 100%.

23: I’ve referred to him a Glass Joe in the past, and I have no reason to believe he won’t get hurt again.

MICHAEL CUDDYER

TSG: If Cuddyer leaves the Twins, I’ll actually be sad to see him go.

23: One of the classiest guys in baseball, hard worker and plays anywhere. I’d love to have him on my squad

CARLOS PENA

TSG: Homers or strikeouts is all you’re going to get with Pena, if you can live with that, it’s a calculated risk.

23: Why trade for an expensive guy hitting .220? I’d rather try a cheaper option like a Conor Jackson

TY WIGGINGTON

TSG: Ty still has some pop in his bat, can play a bunch of positions, and knows the life of a journeyman, he’ll be a good fit wherever he goes.

23: He’s like Jose Oquendo but good, he has power and literally can play all positions. Yankees should beg for him

One of the best times of the year is upon us, stayed tuned for all the happenings during this week’s trade frenzy. I have my money on it being more quiet than active but I’ve been wrong before.