Yesterday, I discussed a trade scenario involving the Braves sending Derek Lowe to the Cubs for Alfonso Soriano. Today, I propose the Braves deal ace starting pitcher Javier Vazquez to the Rockies for outfielder Brad Hawpe. This deal helps both teams as the Braves get the big bat they need and the Rockies get an ace starting pitcher that could put them over the top in the NL West.
I shudder the thought:)
This deal would also allow the Rockies to give outfielder Seth Smith the everyday job in left field. With Smith in LF, Dexter Fowler in CF and Carlos Gonzalez in RF, the Rockies would have a very young outfield all capable of hitting close to .300, with Smith and Gonzalez capable of hitting 20-25 HRs annually.
Hawpe could play RF till uber prospect Jason Heyward is ready for prime time, which could be in April. Should Heyward be ready, Hawpe could move to LF where he is probably more suited to play, as he is one of the worst fielding right fielders in the league. But Hawpe provides the Braves with the power hitter that they are sorely lacking.
Hawpe went 23-86-.285-.384-.519-.903 in 2009 in 501 ABs, almost identical to his 2008 season where he went 25-85-.283-.381-.498-.879. He is scheduled to make $7.5 million in 2010, with a $10 million club option in 2011.
Vazquez went 15-10 with a 2.87 ERA and a 1.03 WHIP in 32 starts in 2009. He is scheduled to make $11.5 million in 2010, and becomes a free agent after the 2010 season.