MLB Pro’s + Con’s
Rumors were flying through the intertubes about the Seattle Mariners going after the Oakland Athletics closer Andrew Bailey via trade.
CLICK HERE NOW TO CHECK OUT THE SEATTLE MARINERS CLUBHOUSE AT NWSPORTSBEAT!
Buster Olney put the odds of his trade at 100%. While nothing has been released officially, it is no surprise that the struggling A’s would be shopping with the 2009 Rookie of the Year.
If there is as much real interest as the speculation on twitter indicates, claiming Bailey is going to come at a high cost.
Should the Mariners be throwing in their name for contention on the 27 year old all-star?
Here are some pros and cons.
PRO: Potential Consistency
The Mariners love pitching prospects. The strategy of Seattle is that dominate pitching will make up for the lack of offense. They have proven time and time again in their ability to develop pitching talent. The good thing about Bailey is that he has already been developed.
While he may need to learn a few things about Seattle ball, he could generally be left alone to do his thing.
CON: No Vacancy
The M’s may show some interest, but I’m not convinced they would make a move if it cost them too much. The Mariners back end of the bullpen is pretty solid. Brandon League actually posted a better ERA (2.79 vs 3.24) and more saves than Bailey (37 vs 24) did in 2011.
The Mariners need more help in long relief than in set ups or closing.
Seattle Mariners Pursuing Andrew Bailey via Trade?
PRO: Awards
It is good to see a player that has proven themselves to be able to perform at the major league level, especially when that effort is recognized by those who give out the awards.
Rookie of the Year is a major achievement as are all-star appearances during your first two years in the show.
He had a bit of an off year, but has shown to be good stock.
CON: Expectation
Coming in with a shiny resume puts a lot of expectations on you to perform to a certain level. The pressure of this is evidenced in a player like Chone Figgins.
If Bailey buckles at all with a new ball club we may see a similar performance. His awards in many ways could be his curse with a club like Seattle.
Conclusion
Is he a good athlete? Yes. Would the front office like to see him in a Seattle Uniform? Yes. Should the Mariners pursue him? No.
Unless the M’s can get Bailey for a steal, expect them to stay away from a serious deal with the A’s over this.