There are good trades, there are bad trades, there are in-between trades, and then there are trades that just don't make a lick of sense. The Astros traded for Randy Wolf today to strengthen their rotation for their intense battle for last place in the NL Central with the Pittsburgh Pirates. If you're uncertain, this trade falls into the last category. Ed Wade, however, seems pretty freaking excited about his pointless acquisition. From the Houston Chronicle:"Randy is an experienced starter and a great competitor," said Astros general manager Ed Wade, who was with the Phillies while Wolf was there from 1999-2006. "We tried to sign him as a free agent during the offseason, but the chance for him to pitch close to home prevailed.
"I've known Randy since the day he signed his first professional contract, and I can say without hesitation that he brings every quality that you'd want in a member of your team, both on and off the field."
Don't get me wrong here, the Astros aren't giving up a lot for Wolf (they're giving up Chad Reineke, a middling AAA starter). The trade itself isn't the problem. The problem is that for some insane reason, Ed Wade looks at his terrible team and can't think of anything to do other than adding a fifth starter to his rotation. The minor league cupboard is bare, the team is full of overpriced veterans, and Wade's adding Randy Wolf. The Astros are going to be very bad for a very long time if this is the way Wade is going to run the team.
Comments (Page 1 of 1)
As a Cubs fan (in NJ), I have learned not to count the Astros out. They have an amazing ability to make spectacular runs in the last month and a-half of the season. Whether it happens this year remains to be seen, but the trade may not be so bad.
Wow, im a Yankees fan and i think that is a really bad trade for both sides, The AAA pitcher i dont think has a winning record, and Wolf cant dominate anymore. The Yankees are thinking about Victor Zambrano! Read up on that drunk minded Cashman.
If he doesn't get chock slammed, it's a win-win for Ed Wade.
I don't particulary know why people are absolutely freaking out over this. The Astros need a guy like Wolf who can go deep into games. Also even if Wolf decides not to sign for another year with the organization, the Astros still get a draft pick, & maybe Wolf will sign. Hopefully he will pitch well & help the team to get back into contention