There was a minor trade today, but it’s worth mentioning. The Houston Astros traded outfielder Josh Anderson to the Atlanta Braves for relief pitcher Oscar Villareal.
It seems like a harmless trade on the surface, but I really don’t understand Atlanta’s take on this. What value does Josh Anderson - seemingly a AAAA player - add to their club? Why trade an established, relatively young and affordable middle reliever for him? Atlanta’s bullpen isn’t that healthy to begin with. I don’t see how decreasing their bullpen depth by adding a bench player improved the club. I think Houston wins this one.
Filed under: Atlanta Braves, Houston Astros | Tagged: Josh Anderson, Oscar Villarreal
No clue, but maybe the Braves use Anderson as their CF until their big CF prospects are ready ton contribute in 2009? Doesn’t seem likely, if they are serious about contending next season, but I guess it’s a small possibility.
Agreed. Villarreal is a valuable piece to a pen. He can give you one batter (righty), throw a tough inning or work a few innings to save a pen. You like to have a guy like that.
And from all reports, this Anderson kid is a speedy guy who can’t really hit. I guess Atlanta can use him as a 4th OF. I’d think they would put Harris out in CF full time if they don’t bring in another CF in the offseason.