Ubaldo Jimenez to Indians: Bye, Ubaldo; Hello, Prospects for Colorado Rockies

On the second-to-last day before the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Colorado Rockies have traded the hard-throwing, fan favorite, Ubaldo Jimenez.

The trade comes on an inconsistent season for Jimenez, who has seen a decrease in pitch velocity, and a below-average win-loss record. Despite his struggles, the Rockies received high value for their No. 1 starter in receiving a total of four prospects.

The Rockies receive right-handed pitchers Joe Gardner, Alex White and southpaw Drew Pomeranz. The Rockies also receive first baseman/outfielder Matt McBride.

Rockies general manager Dan O'Dowd released a statement saying, "This was a very difficult decision for us to make. Our focus with this deal was to make our team better in the very near future and we feel like we were able to do that in this situation."

The four-for-one trade for Jimenez by the Indians is a risky one since Jimenez's inconsistency could come back to bite the Indians if they do indeed make a run for the pennant this season. Also, the prospects they are surrendering are valuable contributors in the minor leagues.

This bittersweet trade for the Rockies, however, is reminiscent of only a few years ago, when the fan favorite Matt Holliday helped lift the Rockies to the World Series, and was traded shortly after the season's end. The Rockies received in return Carlos Gonzalez and Huston Street, two major contributors for them since the acquisition.

The Rockies receive the maximum value for the shaky starter, and the Indians' gamble could pay off. All in all, I believe it is a win-win for both teams, and although I am sad to see Ubaldo go, I wish him luck, and I understand it is a business and trades happen. 

The biggest concern for the Rockies right now is righting the ship. Their injuries and lackluster play are of great concern and things need to turn around if Jim Tracy expects to be back in the immediate future.