Almost anyone who pays attention to Major League Baseball knows that the American League is more superior than the National League.
After these last few days, the National League has picked up some strong arms that could possibly win an All-Star Game for the National League, which they haven't done in 10 years.
Late Monday night, news broke that C.C. Sabathia of the Indians was acquired by the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for four prospects. This trade was fueled by the horrific season Cleveland was experiencing and their need to free some cap room.
BREWERS GET: C.C. Sabathia (P)
INDIANS GET: Matt LaPorta (OF), Zach Jackson (P), Rob Bryson (P), and player to be named later
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What it means for the NL: This move adds depth to the Milwaukee Brewers' rotation, which could possibly slide them into the playoffs in front of other deserving teams.
What it means for the AL: A lefty power arm has left the scene, only to reappear during Interleague match-ups. It helps the AL Central teams to know that the Indians only have one ace now (Carmona).
Mid-day Wednesday, sources released that Oakland A's ace, Rich Harden, and Chad Gaudin were acquired by the Chicago Cubs for two major league players and two prospects. This trade was simply a reaction to the Sabathia trade to Milwaukee. The Cubs needed to pick up another arm to compete in the NL Central.
CUBS GET: Rich Harden (P) and Chad Gaudin (P)
ATHLETICS GET: Sean Gallagher (P), Matt Murton (OF), Eric Patterson (OF), and Josh Donaldson (C)
What it means for the NL: The Cubs are the favorites to win the National League. With Zambrano and Harden anchoring a solid Cub team, I don't think there is a better team in the NL right now.
What it means for the AL: Don't worry about Oakland. Other than Duchscherer, the A's have lost all pitching. However, they did add quality to their lineup by getting Matt Murton, and speed by getting Eric Patterson.
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2 months ago
First, the Indians have two aces -- or did you miss the great season churned out by Cliff Lee (once part of a deadline deal). Let's not forget about Jake Westbrook, who will have a great impact next season if he stays healthy.
Second, Oakland's Dana Eveland, Greg Smith, and newly acquired pitcher Sean Gallagher are all plus arms. Just because these names don't draw a lot of national attention doesn't mean they aren't major league players.
from about 1 month ago
i dont really see lee as an ace. jake westbrook is a joke (to put it simply). and dana eveland and greg smith are good but they are not front of the rotation starters just yet.
about 1 month ago
Calling Rich Harden a "great" pitcher is going a bit over board. Does he have #1 starter stuff? You bet. But anyone whose best season is 11 wins can't be called "great". I don't think this hurts the A's chances to win now because they got guys who are ready now in 3 of the 4 players. And Harden was always hurt anyway.
from about 1 month ago
i personally think if rich harden can stay healthy he is one of the top 10 pitchers in the league. when he is healthy is has some of the best stuff in the league. patterson was a great pickup for speed and murton can help your defense but neither can help the lack of power in the As lineup.
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