The Trade Of The Century

The Dodgers pulled off an unbelievable trade today with the Boston Red Sox. They were able to acquire First Baseman Adrian Gonzalez, Outfielder Carl Crawford, Starting Pitcher Josh Beckett, and Third Baseman/Utility Man Nick Punto. The Dodgers gave up First Baseman James Loney (who is due to be a Free Agent at the end of the season), Pitchers Rubby De La Rosa and Allen Webster, and Infielder Ivan DeJesus Jr., and Outfielder Jerry Sands. With the exception of De La Rosa, I do not believe any of the players traded had a future with the Dodgers. The Dodgers have waited forever for Loney to live up to his potential, Webster is still 2 or 3 years away, DeJesus never could get over the hump, and Sands was never really going to get a legitimate chance because of the Dodgers crowded outfield. For the Boston Red Sox, this deal was primarily financial. They unloaded $261 Million in salary and the Dodgers opened up the checkbook like they never have before especially during the McCourt years. With the exception of Punto, all of the players the Dodgers acquired have been All-Stars, MVPs in one way, shape, or form, and are still in their prime. Carl Crawford will not be able to help the Dodgers this year but the Dodgers have seriously changed the balance of power in the National League West.