For the Pirates to truly 'rebuild' for the future, this trade was necessary. Did the Pirates get any value in trade for LaRoche? That is uncertain. What is certain, the Pirates had to make this trade. In what looks like a salary dump, the Pirates did receive two prospects - a defensive minded shortstop (Argenis Diaz), and a potential starting pitcher (Hunter Strickland). Although, as of yet, Diaz is known more for the glove than the bat. By all accounts, most baseball experts believe Diaz to possess plus range and a very strong, accurate arm. Some say Diaz could play defense in the majors today. It is his bat that raises concern. Although, I remember a similar prospect the Pirates received years ago, and he turned out ok. That players name is Jay Bell. Not saying the Pirates just received Jay Bell #2. I've read some publications mention Hunter Strickland to be a potential #3 or #4 starter in the majors. If either of these men develop anywhere close to their potential, many will soon forget Adam LaRoche in Pittsburgh.
Good to see you on here Paul. I agree that I was very pleased to see LaRoche go, and even more they got anything that could throw a ball, swing a bat, etc. in return.
I'm all against dumping salary, unless the salary dumping is for...well...a dump of a player for most of the year.
For the Pirates to truly 'rebuild' for the future, this trade was necessary. Did the Pirates get any value in trade for LaRoche? That is uncertain. What is certain, the Pirates had to make this trade. In what looks like a salary dump, the Pirates did receive two prospects - a defensive minded shortstop (Argenis Diaz), and a potential starting pitcher (Hunter Strickland). Although, as of yet, Diaz is known more for the glove than the bat. By all accounts, most baseball experts believe Diaz to possess plus range and a very strong, accurate arm. Some say Diaz could play defense in the majors today. It is his bat that raises concern. Although, I remember a similar prospect the Pirates received years ago, and he turned out ok. That players name is Jay Bell. Not saying the Pirates just received Jay Bell #2. I've read some publications mention Hunter Strickland to be a potential #3 or #4 starter in the majors. If either of these men develop anywhere close to their potential, many will soon forget Adam LaRoche in Pittsburgh.
ReplyDeleteGood to see you on here Paul. I agree that I was very pleased to see LaRoche go, and even more they got anything that could throw a ball, swing a bat, etc. in return.
ReplyDeleteI'm all against dumping salary, unless the salary dumping is for...well...a dump of a player for most of the year.