Sunday, April 25, 2010

Possible trade scenarios

I am not trying to turn this blog into a blog only about the Cubs. At some point I will have some strong feelings about politics, an update about my diet(If I ever lose any more weight haha) or just a random diatribe about an issue.

That being said I do have some thoughts about possible trade scenarios that the Cubs could look into. After Carlos Zambrano was moved to the bullpen to help in late inning relief, reports came out that when Hendry goes looking for a late inning guy, it will be a major move instead of a small one. I believe that some of the players that could be in possible trade scenarios are Derrick Lee, Geovany Soto, Tom Gorzelanny, Carlos Zambrano and Fukudome.

The first possible trade scenario could be with Geovany Soto and the Boston Red Sox. Boston is in need of a catcher and Soto could help them out while we get Hideki Okajima or Daniel Bard who are statistically their best relievers. Koye Hill is a good defensive catcher and could be a trade option as well but I believe that Soto will give you the best bang for your buck.

Another possible trade scenario would be to trade Carlos Zambrano or Tom Gorzelanny to the Dodgers for Jonathan Broxton. The Cubs may have to eat some of Zambrano's salary but in the end they should be able to save some money on Zambrano's contract and improve the bullpen. If Gorzelanny is traded, the team can move Zambrano back to the rotation where he belongs.

Another trade scenario could to trade Derrick Lee to San Diego for Adrian Gonzalez and Heath Bell. It's possible that the trade could be a three way deal that would get the Cubs at least one reliever and another team may get Gonzalez. The only reason to consider trading Lee is because the Cubs may not bring him back next year and would want to get something for him.

Another scenario would be to trade Fukudome to the Nationals for Tyler Clippard. The Nats are looking for an everyday outfielder and Clippard would be a good fit in the bullpen. The team may have to eat some of Fukudome's contract as well but in the end should save money for the budget. This would let the Cubs start Tyler Colvin and see if he can play.

I am not sure if any of these trade options are viable so early in the season or if another player or team is an option. I believe the longer the Cubs keep Zambrano in the bullpen the more willing he would be to waiving his no trade clause. If that is the case, the trade to the Dodgers could be a likely scenario. It is something to think about and I look forward to seeing what happens. Some of the trade scenarios could include trading some of their prospects. I believe that there should be few "untouchable" prospects except for Tyler Colvin, Andrew Cashner, Brett Jackson, Starlin Casto and Jay Jackson. The team should consider trading anyone else to help strengthen the team.