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December 6, 2012

Transaction Analysis

Rockies Trade for Wilton Lopez

by Ben Lindbergh

IN THIS ISSUE

American League

Houston Astros

National League

Colorado Rockies

HOUSTON ASTROS
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Acquired RHP Alex White and RHP Alex Gillingham for RHP Wilton Lopez and a PTBNL. [12/5]

If the Astros think the expiration date on Lopez’ elbow is about to arrive, they were wise to get what they could; even if the arm holds up, Lopez won’t be worth as much when he starts making more money, and an expensive setup man, no matter how good, is a luxury a losing team can do without.

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12 comments have been left for this article.

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Richard Bergstrom

(36532)

The Rockies trade down again. As mentioned in the article, why should a losing team trade for a setup man?

Dec 05, 2012 12:13 PM

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rating: 0

CRP13

(46873)

Because he was only $1.2M and a reliever of his quality as a Free Agent would command $5 million per year for multiple years or more.

That's my guess.

Dec 05, 2012 12:40 PM

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rating: 0

R.A.Wagman

(32721)

One fact not mentioned, but worth bearing in mind, is that this is the Astros first trade (I think) since hiring KG as their director of pro scouting, wherein they picked up kids. This trade has a direct BP stamp of approval for the 'Stros.

Dec 05, 2012 16:17 PM

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rating: 4

Richard Bergstrom

(36532)

If they send a catcher as the PBTNL to the Rockies, we'll also know the catcher can't frame a pitch ;)

Dec 05, 2012 16:28 PM

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rating: 2

John Carter

(22689)

Um, it's time to place the Astros in the American League.

Dec 05, 2012 17:41 PM

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rating: 0

Ben Lindbergh

BP staff

(37618)

Right you are. We'll get that addressed.

Dec 05, 2012 18:31 PM

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Jason Wojciechowski

BP staff

(1272)

No, don't. I'm not ready for this.

Dec 06, 2012 01:02 AM

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Richard Bergstrom

(36532)

Out of curiosity, is there an "official date" where the Astros are in the AL? Opening Day? January 1st? Start of spring training?

Dec 06, 2012 02:00 AM

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rating: 2

Ben Lindbergh

BP staff

(37618)

It's done!

Dec 06, 2012 23:31 PM

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Kyle E.

(15343)

A lofty ground ball rate is high one? A low one?

Dec 06, 2012 09:42 AM

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rating: 1

Ben Lindbergh

BP staff

(37618)

High.

Dec 06, 2012 09:51 AM

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jimcal

(24946)

For a reliever like Lopez, I wonder if Rockies feel that strongly of him as bullpen help...plus the quote "an expensive setup man, no matter how good, is a luxury a losing team can do without" feel like applicable to Rockies as well.

What does this trade say about Rox Brother though?

Dec 06, 2012 12:22 PM

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rating: 0

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