Hot Stove Report #1

The hot stove is warming up already as a few trades have begun to trickle in. Here at the Double Mendoza Blog, we're going to do our best to keep up with all the action so you can stay informed on where all the big names are heading this offseason. Keep your eyes peeled for more Hot Stove Reports as trades and free agent acquistions are made.









Los Angeles Dodgers acquire:
23-year-old 3B Trent Carr

Minnesota Antichrists acquire:
32-year-old C Kevin Nichols

Snapshot Analysis: While nothing earth-shattering, this is a sound trade for both sides that focuses on defense. Nichols is a consummate pro when it comes to dealing with a pitching staff and as a backup catcher, he is a very solid option. Similarly, Carr brings good defense and a respectable bat off the bench for the Dodgers. Despite the Antichrists desire to go young this season, it's the Dodgers acquiring the youth in this swap.










Oklahoma City Kingfishers acquire:
26-year-old CF Rafael Espinoza

Minnesota Antichrists acquire:
25-year-old SP Vasco Megias
28-year-old RP Glenn Floyd
21-year-old RP Greg Riley

Snapshot Analysis: The Kingfishers appear to be building an offensive squad this season by adding Espinoza to their fold. In exchange for giving up one of their most talented hitters, the Antichrists get a trio of young pitchers. Megias has 2 ML years under his belt as a starter and is a nice option at the back of any rotation. Floyd performed admirably after a late call-up last season as the Kingfishers' closer, and Riley has impressed scouts throughout his minor league career. This is an interesting trade because it brings up the debate of which is better to have: quality or quantity? Espinoza is probably the most talented player in the swap, but the Antichrists now have a lot of pitching depth.










Tucson Pilots acquire:
32-year-old SP Colby Cunningham

Los Angeles Dodgers acquire:
23-year-old SP Roberto Tarraga
23-year-old RP Pablo Eusebio
25-year-old 1B Alejandro Concepcion

Snapshot Analysis: He didn't come cheap, but the ALCS runners-up acquire a pretty big fish in Cunningham, who has been the anchor of the Dodgers' rotation the past 2 seasons. Cunningham will be a great #2 behind SP Oswaldo Mendez. In Tarraga, the Dodgers "replace" Cunningham with another starter, but scouts say his movement pitches leave something to be desired. Eusebio could be a decent option in middle relief down the road, but he won't blow hitters away either. The crown jewel of this deal for the Dodgers is Concepcion, who should be a perennial .300+ hitter for them, and is ready for the majors right now. Plus, he has no prior service time, which is always a plus.

* All trades are pending league approval