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Would you rather have Frias/Ragsdale or Jett/Sproat? I think this was a panic trade (of sorts) that was forced because of the 1-2 punch of the pitching injuries plus trading Peralta. I didn’t understand the Peralta trade when it happened, and it looks even worse in hindsight since we had to trade away high upside prospects for what roughly a lateral move (Peralta + comp pick vs May). Competing teams should never trade away competent starting pitching unless the return is insane value. I’d argue that neither Jett nor sproat count as insane value. Because the cost to acquire pitching midseason is punitive for the buyer.

At first, I hated this trade. Then I thought about it some more, and still hated it.

Surprised by the process here. I generally take the approach of “Arnold knows best” and maybe that holds true here but the risk vs. reward balance just feels off. Frias and Ragsdale may turn out to busts/non difference makers, but the “reward” for letting the Cardinals find out if 117 mph exit velocity is a harbinger of future stardom feels like it should be more than a mid rotation rental and a bullpen arm.

The trade packages being speculated on for Skubal all seem significantly better than what the Brewers got back for Corbin Burnes. Skubal is better than Burnes, but they are pretty good comps. Surprising to see the perceived gulf in value.