The Case for Trading Craig Kimbrel
Jun 29, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Atlanta Braves relief pitcher
Craig Kimbrel(46) looks for a signal against the Philadelphia Phillies. The Braves won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
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This is
not
a topic that I wanted to delve into, but with many urging the Braves to trade
Craig Kimbrel– ranging from
to
– it seems worthy of a look from the Braves’ point of view.
Up front, I will say this – there are reasons to move him. The real question will end up being this: does it help or hurt the Braves in the long run?
With the trades that have already been executed this off-season, you could see real reasons for the moves:
- Tommy La Stella – other positional alternatives were available (even before subsequent deals), plus the Cubs overwhelmed Atlanta
- Jason Heyward – chances for an extension seemed dim; player and team were miles apart on future value; Cardinals helped make it a straightforward call.
- Justin Upton – essentially the same reason as with Heyward
- Evan Gattis – a man without a position in the wrong league. Excellent return as well.
Does Kimbrel’s situation fit any of the above? Yes – the first one.
But let’s review the arguments in detail… hit NEXT to continue…