So Brian Cashman finally made a move this winter (or several, but we will leave his personal life out of this one). While this trade caused several New York fans to freak out – I actually think it puts both teams in a better position. And since the Yankees don’t exactly have to worry about Seattle winning the ALCS, ultimately this was a smart move for the Yankees.
Why Seattle Wins
It has been well established Montero is not a good catcher in any way, shape, or form. What he can do is hit – something Seattle desperately needs. Montero has great potential behind the plate – during the 18 games he played in September with the Yankees, he hit .328, 4 home runs, and 12 RBIs.
Let’s be honest – despite being named the Yankees 7th best prospect in 2011 by Baseball America, no one really cares about Hector Noesi (myself included). But for argument’s sake, he was part of this trade too and he gives the Mariners some versatility. Noesi was a starter for his entire minor league career and pitched long relief for the Yankees last season, giving the Mariners some options on how to slot him into the rotation.
And most importantly, Why New York Wins
I have tried really hard over the years to defend AJ – I can’t help it, I am sucker for his game face and tattoos. But my friends, the time has come where I hope to never see AJ pitch for the Yankees again. The Yankees desperately needed a number 2 starter behind Sabathia. In comes Pineda - primed and ready to take the reins. Before the All Star break, Pineda looked like the favorite to win AL Rookie of the Year. Sure - he struggled during the 2nd half of the season – but nobody is perfect. We’ll chalk it up to growing pains. He still managed to end the season 9-10 with a 3.74 ERA compared to Burnett’s 5.15 ERA….and numbers don’t lie. Placing Pineda in the number 2 spot, followed with Nova at number 3 also gives the Yankees more time to let prospects Manny Banuelos and Delin Betances develop in Triple A.
Jose Campos to the Yankees…..wait, what, who is Jose Campos? Campos is only 19 – meaning he won’t be making an impact in the Bronx anytime soon. He spent last year playing single A with a record of 5-5 and an ERA of 2.32. Right now he is still a Wild Card - but so is Noesi. If he can develop his curveball, he is primed and ready to become a starter eventually.
Final Thoughts
The Yankees don’t need a catcher in the immediate future – Russell Martin had an All-Star season last year and proved his toughness and dedication to the team. Furthermore, Austin Romaine is waiting in the wings. Additionally, like it or not, ARod is getting older – meaning that he will eventually fill the DH spot – which would have taken it away from Jesus anyways.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
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