Now that
The Nation has had a few hours to sleep on it, we can now begin evaluating
the trade pulled off by Red Sox GM Ben Cherington last night. Reportedly, the third team in (Detroit) was a late entry into the process and allowed Boston to take less of hit than they otherwise would have in a straight two-way deal with the White Sox. In any event, the Carmine Hose lost: SS
Jose Iglesias, and minor leaguers
Cleulius Rondon (INF),
Francelis Montas (P) and
Jeffery Wendelken (P). Unless one of these lesser lights catches fire, parting with Iglesias will be the only serious downside. He has the potential to be an All-Star shortstop for years to come—with the best defensive skills in baseball at that position.
But, the organization has legitimate depth at the position—
Xander Bogaerts and
Deven Marrero—so it makes sense to sell high on Iggy. He will be missed. Anyone who saw the quick hands he displayed at third base the other night on an amazing double play will know what we mean. Boston also got a reliever from the Tigers,
Brayan Villarreal. The 26-year old reliever was abysmal in limited action for Detroit this year. So, now the big prize—
Jake Peavy. The 32-year old righty (and former
Cy Young winner) is 8-4 so far this year, with a 4.28 ERA. His career marks are 128-97 with a 3.49 ERA. And, in what we consider the most important hurler stat—he's given up 231
fewer hits than innings pitched. He has post-season experience (good news), but he's got a 12.10 ERA over 9 2/3 playoff innings (bad news). However, he is a fierce competitor and can certainly withstand the silliness that is Boston baseball. All things considered, we applaud BenCher for a shrewd move. He did have to give up some value, but he was able to limit the damage and got back a commodity the team sorely needs.
