Morgan to the Nationals? Don't Do It, Neal

(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Over the past few days a rumored deal has been floating around regarding Nyjer Morgan going to the Nationals for Lastings Milledge. Why on earth would Neal Huntington even consider this?

Recently, Huntington made it known that he is looking to build his outfield around the speed and defensive abilities of Andrew McCutchen. Morgan and recently acquired Gorkys Hernandez fit PERFECTLY into that mold. Why would Huntington trade for a similar player with a little more pop but less defensive and base running skills?

Yes, I know Morgan has been struggling recently at the plate but his speed is still a threat behind McCutchen and his defense is still top notch. He has only one error this year and only three in his entire career. He's also tied for third in the National League in stolen bases.

I simply cannot see any justification for the Pirates to make this trade. You also cannot forget about the many issues of Milledge's career including his appearance in a rap song, and his high-fiving of the Shea faithful after a game-tying home run his rookie season.

Milledge is a project-type player at this point in his career, but he still has a very high ceiling, and is still only 24-years-old. Milledge is putting up worse numbers in AAA than Morgan is putting up in the NL Central.

There are more pressing needs for the Pirates to consider before trading Nyjer Morgan.  Among those include Jack Wilson, John Grabow, Adam LaRoche, Ian Snell, and even Freddy Sanchez.

Please, Neal, do NOT make this trade.

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