Abreu-Tejada Talk

I thought it necessary to briefly intervene and crystallize some of this trade talk surrounding Miguel Tejada and Bobby Abreu. First of all, these rumors are no more substantial than any others that have yet to pan out, so let’s not blow it out of proportion just yet. Second, from what I’ve heard from Gillick throughout the off-season, is that he is only looking to trade Abreu if he can find a top of the rotation starter – which the Phils desperately need.

While Miguel Tejada is an awesome player he is not a huge improvement over Abreu. Tejada is two years younger, but has two more years on his contract. His reputation as a clubhouse leader has been somewhat tainted by his selfish request to be traded. But in comparison to Abreu’s lack of leadership and Manny-esque hustle, Tejada would be a plus there. Also, power hitting shortstops don’t come around too often, which makes Tejada a bit more attractive. Maybe a tiny bit more so now that the Phils signed another outfielder.  Though since Miggy is unwilling to play third, this would mean something would have to be done with Rollins and his new contract.

Then there’s the idea of flipping Miggy for an ace. I doubt this will happen. If there wasn’t much interest in Abreu, there won’t be significantly more for Tejada. Plus, for the O’s to agree to this trade they would want a young pitcher like, Cole Hamels, Robinson Tejeda, Ryan Madson, Brett Myers, or Gavin Floyd (the names I’ve seen bandied around). Now that’s quite a range of talent in that mix, but I think these guys should be saved for the future (Myers, Madson) or saved for the trading deadline (Floyd, Tejeda) – though the prospects of a Tejada-Tejeda deal would be amusing.  Also, it seems the Phils would pick up LaTroy Hawkins to add to their bullpen.  But if there aren’t enough reasons not to make this deal, Hawkins should be it.  He folded under pressure in Chicago, wasn’t much better in San Francisco, and would be no better then the arms the Phils currently have in the ‘pen.

But I think the debate surrounds an earlier the point: the fact that Gillick wants to trade Abreu for an ace. If he’s got a three team deal worked out, that’s one thing, but Miggy for Bobby plus a young arm – without a definite plan for an ace for Tejada deal – would not be a very beneficial to the Phils.

Update:  More reasons the Tejada deal won’t happen: "Miguel Tejada rescinded his demand to be traded by the Orioles, telling team officials during a phone call Saturday that he’s willing to help Baltimore become a contender in the AL East."