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May 09, 2006

Greg Maddux

Today's hypothetical thought:

Let's say that Carl Pavano returns to the Yankees on June 1st of this season, and, for his first month back, he pitches OK. For the heck of it, let's assume that he averages 6 IP per GS, has an ERA near four, and wins half of his starts during the month of June.

Meanwhile, in the National League, let's assume that the Chicago Cubs continue to play poorly through the end of June.

It's now July 1st.

If the Yankees, assuming all of the above is true, on July 1st have a chance to trade 30-year-old Carl Pavano for 40-year-old Greg Maddux, should they do it?

Keep in mind, in addition to the huge age difference, Maddux will be a Free Agent after this year and Pavano is locked up for the next 2 years (at an average of $10.5 million per season).

I just might be nuts; but, if Maddux is still pitching well come July of this season, and I have a chance to make this trade, I just might do it.

I would prefer to have someone with Maddux' guts on the hill (in place of Pavano) during the pennant run - and if I can save $21 million in the process it's even better. (And, maybe I could use that money to chase someone like Barry Zito for 2007.)

Posted by Steve Lombardi at May 9, 2006 10:52 AM

Comments

I would make that trade, and I would do it before the Cubs come to their senses. :)

Isn't Maddux talking about retiring after this year? I know it's on the horizon...

But I'm looking at it from the pov that one of the kids on the farm will be ready. Not saying that they'll perform at a Maddux level, but I'd be happy with league average.

Posted by: Raf [TypeKey Profile Page] at May 9, 2006 12:16 PM

I'd do it today. Even if I have to send cash over to pay part of Pavano's salary. I know what I'm going to get out of Maddux, haven't a clue about Pavano.

Posted by: rbj [TypeKey Profile Page] at May 9, 2006 01:35 PM

I have to respectfully disagree. While I think Pavano's been an overrated player with an extremely delicate body, I don't think Greg Maddux would do any better for the Yankees. I suppose you could VORP an argument for it since Maddux at least makes all of his starts whereas Pavano may just as likely hit the DL again upon his return. That being said, I don't think the AL is the place for a soft-tosser like Maddux who, before yesterday, was pitching better than he had the past few seasons. Don't the Yanks need strikeout pitchers to keep the ball away from their infield defense? And do the Yanks want to get back into the habit of buying players, paying for them, then paying their way in other cities? Pavano should represent (hopefully) the last free agent pitcher we gamble and lose on.

Posted by: MJ [TypeKey Profile Page] at May 9, 2006 01:50 PM

I'd make the deal, but I wonder if Maddux would go for it. I imagine he has a no trade clause, and he's already turned down the chance to pitch for the Yanks once before . . . remembering when he spurned the Yanks' money to sign with the Braves still makes me mad. I would have loved to see him in pinstripes in his prime. Oh well.

Posted by: Shaun P. [TypeKey Profile Page] at May 9, 2006 05:05 PM