Analyzing the Abreu-for-Beltran swap

As first reported here on the blog, Mike and Ken swapped outfielders yesterday.

Ken sent first-round draft pick Carlos Beltran to Mike in exchange for Bobby Abreu.

The deal clearly indicates two teams heading in opposite directions, and we will have to wait long term to see who ends up getting the better of it.

"Unless my whole team turns into my best hitter, I don't see how Abreu can help me make playoffs with six weeks left," Mike said.

More analysis after the jump.


Ken picked up one of fantasy baseball's best players this year. Abreu gives him hits, runs, walks, average and stolen bases. But the biggest thing it might do is force the other top contenders in the Tug McGraw division to respond with a trade of their own. Specifically Andy and Joe.

Mike picks up a likely keeper for next year and beyond. He had been down on Ian Kinsler and his .240 average and wasn't thrilled about having him as the centerpiece of his team for another season.

So he made the deal for the injured Beltran, who may or may not return this season.

"To me at this point they are being careful with his injury with no reason to rush him back," Mike said. "His doctors told me he will definitely be 100 percent to go next year."

If Beltran returns this year, specifically in late August/early September around playoff time, Ken may regret making the deal.

"I needed someone to fill the void left by Beltran," Ken said. "The Mets handle injuries horribly, and I know we won't see Beltran again this year."

The one oddity about the trade is why it happened yesterday instead of the day of the trade deadline, Sunday, Aug. 9. Mike (7-9) could have used the next two weeks to see if he is gets back to .500 for a last run at a playoff spot.

Clearly, Ken (11-5) would have done the deal two weeks from now, as well.

But sources tell me Mike wanted to get the trade done because he is still working the phones trying to improve his team for next year.

Check back as we get closer to the trade deadline for more on rumors and trade musings. Remember, the blog is your No. 1 source for up-to-the-minute happenings!