Hot Stove Update

One big move and a few middling ones has kept the hot stove burning warm through the end of January.  Let’s review:

Justin Upton was trade to the Atlanta Braves along with Chris Johnson for Martin Prado, Randall Delgado and some minor leaguers including Zeke Spruill and Brandon Drury.  Upton had previously invoked his no trade clause on a deal to the Mariners which would have netted the Diamond a much nicer haul.

The whole thing was a bit weird.  I’m not going to go into stats that say Upton was declining or he isn’t as good of an OF as he should be – there’s plenty of that.  What other team traded a 25 year old superstar for a consistent .300 hitter and some other pieces.  Upton was a fairly popular pick for MVP last year.  Some say that the Dbacks knew something others teams don’t.  I don’t buy that at all.  Upton must have rubbed someone the wrong way, because I don’t see how this makes great baseball sense.  Chemistry is overrated.  You know what players are good chemistry guys?  The ones on teams that are winning.

In other news, the Mets signed Shaun Marcum to a one year deal which I think could be good for him.  There wasn’t a huge market and he can try and regain his old form pitching in an average division in a pitcher friendly park.  Maybe next year he can go out and get more money or more years.  Why would the Mets do it?  Why not?  It’s only one year.

Finally, Kelly Johnson signed with the Rays.  That is all I can say about that.

It’s just the hot stove season right now, but it’s never too early to begin looking at 2013 MLB All Star Game ticket prices. The weather will be warming up before we know it and if you plan on attending the Midsummer’s classic, it’s never too early to start looking.