This week we recap the MLB GM Meetings from last week, talk about the Yankees’ acquisition of Aaron Hicks and Ronald Herrera, and the trade market for Brett Gardner. We also discuss the Red Sox trade for Craig Kimbrel and what what other teams in the AL East will do this offseason. QUESTION OF THE WEEK: If you were Brian Cashman, what would your number 1 move be this offseason? Submit your answer to the podcast mailbag and we will read them on the next episode.
It was a busy week for Cashman and the Yankees, who sent John Ryan Murphy to the Twins for Aaron Hicks. Hicks, a 26 year old outfielder, is a former first round pick with upside. He provides the Yankees versatility and athleticism, which they were clearly lacking last season. Murphy was a fan favorite and solid backup catcher, but this was a no-brainer move for the Yanks. However, this begs the question — what will happen with Brett Gardner now? Scott and I discuss what we would do with Gardy.
They also traded Jose Pirela to the Padres for minor league pitcher Ronald Herrera. We don’t know much about Herrera, who is a 20 year old prospect. Pirela had a great spring training in 2015 but his concussion towards the end of spring really derailed his season.
In this episode we also discuss the Red Sox trade for closer Craig Kimbrel from the Padres. The Sox sent a prospect package to San Diego that included two guys ranked in the top 7 in their system. Closer was a big need for them, and Kimbrel definitely makes them a better team but they still need to sign at least one starter. I expect them to go after somebody of the caliber of Price or Cueto. We also discuss that the Orioles and Blue Jays are losing big name players off their roster, and will take a step back unless they fill those voids.
Finally, I started a new thing on the podcast this week — Question of the week. Each episode I will pose a question at the end of the episode in hopes of generating some mailbag/voicemail discussions. We will read the answers on the next episode. This week’s question is: If you were Brian Cashman, what would your number 1 move be this offseason?
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