Trade Winds Blowing Early - Harden to the Cubs
Rich Harden was dealt to the Cubbies tonight in part of a six player deal. The Cubs received both Harden and Chad Gaudin, in return they sent the A’s: talented prospect, RHP Sean Gallagher, Matt Murton, Eric Patterson and Josh Donaldson.
The immediate fantasy impact to Rich Harden and Chad Gaudin should be positive. Anytime quality arms go to the National League, this should raise an eyebrow to fantasy players. The opportunity to face the pitcher every ninth batter and to go to an overall less talented league is a real bonus. On the flip side Harden is perpetual getting injured and tantalizing us with his nearly limitless talent. Be very careful making a move for him. He has burned a lot of us many times. He already missed a month earlier this season and has visited the DL six times in his six years in the bigs.
Although Harden was the prize player in this deal, Gaudin is no slouch. He is 5-3 so far this year with a 3.59 era. Look for Gaudin’s value to increase with more run support and NL lineups. Do keep in mind that both Harden and Gaudin go from a pitcher’s park to the friendly confines of Wrigley. Overall I think both these pitchers will be better off.
Sean Gallagher and Eric Patterson are the two best players the A’s got in return. Billy Beane has quite the track record of finding young talent. Don’t be surprised if he’s found two more jewels. Both of these players are major league ready and should get increased playing time on the A’s. Gallagher is only 22 and will now get a chance to pitch every fifth day. Here’s what A’s manager Bob Gerin had to say
We’ve made some great deals the last 12 months and this is another one. (Gallagher is) young and talented and we got a lot of other talent in the deal also. I think it’s going to be another one of these trades where both teams are going to be real happy with it. –Bob Gerin
Eric Patterson is the younger brother of Reds OF, Corey Patterson. He is every bit as talented as his brother, hopefully he can put it together even more so. Patterson will start out in Triple-A, but look for him to get a look later in the year. Matt Murton, who was once a top notch prospect will also be optioned to Triple-A. He has struggled to become more the a typical quad-A type player. I would be shocked if he ever does. Catcher, Josh Donaldson is still a long way away from the majors, he will see time in Single and/or Double-A.
