Yesterday was a good day in Boston professional sports. Not only did the Celtics get Kevin Garnett, but the Sox scored Eric Gagne, adding more depth to the majors best bullpen. We've already seen that money itself does not translate to wins. However, money well spent can go a long way. One may argue that the Sox didn't need anymore help in the bullpen, but let's see why that this trade is a smart one.
First, it is unlikely that Gagne will stay in Boston after the year is over, since he wants to close, and Jonathan Papelbon is still Boston's main man. Because Gagne is considered a Type A free agent, if he leaves at the end of the season, Boston will receive two draft picks within the first two rounds.
Secondly, Boston didn't give up much in the big picture to get Gagne. Gagne comes to Boston in exchange for Kason Gabbard, David Murphy, and Engel Beltre. Gabbard has pitched well in Curt Schilling's absence. However, he looked a bit shaky in his last start (5 runs in 4.2 innings). Overall, Gabbard looks good right now, but he hasn't had a full season in the majors, so Boston is taking a chance by selling him high, not to mention, there will be a log jam of starters once Schilling returns. Although Murphy was a good looking prospect in Pawtucket (Red Sox AAA affiliate), he was unlikely to see playing time because of Jacoby Ellsbury. It's hard to say what Beltre might do, as he was playing in A ball. That being said, Boston may be able to replace him with one of those early draft picks if Gagne decides to leave.
Lastly, the addition of Gagne will prevent the overuse of Boston's bullpen. Overall, Terry Francona has managed the use of the bullpen well. It helps to have starters who go deep into the game as well, but it never hurts to have a rested bullpen in the stretch run. With the Yankees starting to get it together, Boston will gladly take any help to make the final push towards the playoffs.
Hindsight being 20/20, only time will tell if this will pan out for Boston, but right now, I think Boston has a lot to be excited about.
6 comments:
I think you touched on the most important point - over using the bull pen.
Papelbon was used too much last season and he started to decline down the stretch. He appears to be breaking down now as well - Gagne will give him the needed rest or if anything at all a high quality insurance policy for the Sox should Papelbon's arm falter again.
I question whether or not Gagne is mentally fit to be a Red Sox. The Boston media is very tough on its players - that kind of added pressure sometimes takes away from one's performance (Kenny Rogers in NY for example).
I was psyched (and shocked) when the Sox acquired Gagne. I have no idea how the Yankees let that happen given their superior prospects and a greater need for relief help.
Gagne clearly isn't as effective as he was back in his "Game Over" days but he'll be one of the better set-up men in baseball. Not too concerned about his mental toughness either -- I'd imagine anyone who saves 84 straight has to thrive on pressure (and hopefully not steroids too).
For a #5 starter (if that), a #4 OF and a guy in single A, I'll take the two month rental.
(Just don't bring this up if/when that Beltre kid turns into a superstar)
I agree to a point on the Gagne thing.
I think the reason why the Yanks let it happen is that they questioned where his head was at. Gagne's contract with the Rangers had a no trade clause for two teams (Yanks & Sox). So, maybe they didn't push hard for him if they didn't think he wanted to play with them in the first place.
84 straight saves - yes he has to be able to handle pressure. Not all saves are alike though - LA is not Boston when it comes to demands of performance - at least I don't think it is.
All in all I think it was a good deal for the Sox though.
I was at the Sox - Mariners game last night and Gagne almost gave me a heart attack. Stop trying to strike out every batter and just make your pitch. Man oh man.
Speaking of middle relief, the Yanks designated Meyers today. Truthfully, I was expecting it sooner, but I'm sure they had their reasons. He's been hot and cold against lefty hitters, which is what he was hired to do. There are teams desparate for arms, so I think the Yanks should be able to trade him.
Mid, It's true that all saves are not alike, but Gagne won't see too many save opportunities. If he gets into trouble as a set-up man I'd be curious to see how long his leash is with Francona and Farrell. They could fall back on Okajima, but he's quickly approaching his high in innings pitched. Should be an interesting last few months.
Stop throwing fastballs
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