Jays Fans...Not Too Happy About This

Despite the avalanche of trades and signings in the MLB the past two days, you may have noticed a lack of posts around here. Well, I just flew back to wonderful Wisconsin last night and was surprised to hear about what I have missed. Consider this a recap of some of the most important signings and trades this week. Sorry for the lack of posts, but I’m back for now. Having said that, how about that Roy Halladay trade?

I’m not sure baseball has ever seen a deal like the Halladay-Cliff Lee (myriad of prospects) swap. Two Cy-Young award winner were sent to two different teams. If that isn’t enough, both players are still in the primes of their careers. Throw in a mystery fourth team (Oakland) that somehow got involved in the deal and 7 prospects, and suddenly we have a mega-deal on our hands.

According to MLBTradeRumors, this is how the deal shakes out:

• The Phillies get Roy Halladay, Phillippe Aumont, Tyson Gillies, Juan Ramirez, and $6MM.  The Phillies will give Halladay a three-year extension plus vesting options.
• The Mariners get Cliff Lee.
• The Blue Jays get Kyle Drabek, Brett Wallace, and Travis d’Arnaud.
• The A’s get Michael Taylor.

(By the way, how awesome is MLBTradeRumors? If you aren’t going there to get a dose of the off-season news, do it now.)

Jack Z Continues to Impress

From the initial reactions, it seems like the Blue Jays didn’t receive much for (arguably) one of the best pitchers in the Blue Jays franchise. Meanwhile, our good friend Rob Neyer reminds us that Jack Zduriencik is off to a great start in his new position. Personally, I’m impressed that the Phillies traded for Halladay, and received a few prospects (and cash) for him. Seattle continues to build up a nice collection of players, and appears ready to contend in 2010. It’s hard to argue against anything Jack Z has done thus far. For those of us that didn’t rate him in our Top Ten GMs list, I imagine he will be on everyone’s list after next season. With Jack Z’s familiarity with the Milwaukee Brewers, couldn’t you see him acquiring/turning around the career of Rickie Weeks in a year or two? It’s going to happen…mark my words.

As far as the A’s are concerned, they get a potential 30-30 candidate in Michael Taylor (not my words, but he does seem to have a high ceiling) for Brett Wallace. Wallace should hit at a major league level, but his defense is a liability. The Jays see him as a first baseman, which seems like the right move for Wallace now. This deal, although relatively minor considering the parties involved, shows that the A’s are committed to the new defensive movement in baseball. Big surprise here, but I like what Billy Beane is building in Oakland.

Can Anyone Convince Me To Get On Board With Pierre?

In a much lesser deal, the White Sox acquired Juan Pierre from the Dodgers. I’m trying to like this move for the Sox, but I have no idea what to think. I would have liked to see Coco Crisp instead of Pierre, but Pierre doesn’t cost too much for 2010 ($3 mil). He’s also better than some of the more recent White Sox center fielders (DeWayne Wise, Jerry Owens, Scott Podsednik). Anyone want to talk me off the ledge on this one?

As I stated earlier I’m back in Milwaukee, so you will have to deal with a short post for today. I have to meet my good friend (and your favorite personality) Matt Montgomery for some drinks/to catch up. More shenanigans tomorrow!