The Astros have acquired right-hander Gerrit Cole from the Pirates for righties Joe Musgrove and Michael Feliz, third baseman Colin Moran and outfielder Jason Martin, according to announcements from both teams.
Houston and Pittsburgh nearly reached an agreement on a Cole trade earlier this week, but reports of a done deal proved premature. The two sides continued to negotiate, however, and have now come together on one of the most noteworthy trades of the offseason. Cole is the second potential front-end starter the Astros have acquired since last August, when they landed longtime Tigers ace Justin Verlander, who ultimately helped pitch them to their first-ever World Series title a couple months later.
With Verlander, Dallas Keuchel, Charlie Morton, Lance McCullers and Collin McHugh among their starters on hand, the Astros didn’t exactly have a desperate need for Cole heading into next season. But adding Cole should nonetheless increase their chances to finish atop the major league mountain again in 2018, and with two years of team control remaining, he figures to help their cause through 2019. Neither Keuchel nor Morton is under contract past 2018, which helps explains why the Astros have been in on Cole and other high-end starters this offseason. The Astros’ addition of Cole should affect top free agents like Yu Darvish and Jake Arrieta, both of whom have been on their radar this winter, as it seems to remove a potential suitor for them.
Cole, who settled on a $6.75MM salary for his penultimate year of arbitration control on Friday, is coming off a somewhat disappointing season. Although the 27-year-old racked up 203 innings and continued to serve as one of the majors’ hardest-throwing starters, a bloated home run-to-fly ball rate (15.9 percent, well above his career figure of 10.0) helped lead to a personal-worst 4.26 ERA/4.08 FIP.
Given his down 2017, the Pirates weren’t in position to sell high on Cole. However, as a Scott Boras client nearing free agency, the low-payroll club knew its chances to extend him weren’t good. Consequently, the Bucs shopped Cole around the league – including to the Yankees, Twins and Cubs – before sending him to the Astros. Cole had been with the Pirates since they selected him first overall in the 2011 draft, and he looked like an ace with them at times after debuting in 2013. All told, Cole registered a 3.50 ERA/3.27 FIP with 8.44 K/9, 2.34 BB/9 and a 47.4 percent groundball rate across 782 1/3 innings in Pittsburgh.
Parting with Cole could begin a rebuild for the Pirates, who finished under .500 for the second straight year in 2017. However, acquiring three major league-ready players for him in Musgrove, Moran and Feliz may also help them compete next season. The headliner is arguably the 25-year-old Musgrove, a former top 100 prospect who has worked as both a starter and reliever since debuting in 2016. While Musgrove scuffled as a starter last season, he was utterly dominant in his first big league action out of the bullpen. Moving to a relief role enabled Musgrove to ramp up his velocity, and it helped lead to a 1.44 ERA with just under nine strikeouts per nine and a paltry 1.44 BB/9 across 31 1/3 innings. It’s unclear whether he’ll be a starter or a reliever going forward, but with five years of control, the Pirates will have time to find an ideal role for him.
Moran was a first-round pick of the Marlins in 2013 who topped out as Baseball America’s 61st-ranked prospect after that season, though he hasn’t seen much action in the majors to this point (37 plate appearances). And with the emergence of third baseman Alex Bregman, there simply wasn’t a path to playing time in Houston. The 25-year-old Moran held his own in 2017 at Triple-A – his second season at that level – with a .308/.373/.543 line in 338 PAs. Moran ranked as the Astros’ fifth-best prospect prior to the trade, according to MLB.com, which lauds “his pure left-handed swing and his ability to barrel balls easily while controlling the strike zone.” Defensively, Moran has the hands and arm to handle third, though he lacks range, per MLB.com.
Feliz, 24, amassed significant experience out of the Astros’ bullpen over the previous two seasons, during which he combined to make 98 appearances and throw 121 innings. While Feliz brought high-90s heat, posted a sky-high 13.14 K/9 and a passable 3.5 BB/9 along the way, he only managed a 4.94 ERA – owing in part to a low groundball percentage (37.1 percent) and a lofty home run-to-fly ball rate (16.5 percent). ERA indicators have been bullish on Feliz, who owns a career 3.67 FIP and 3.17 xFIP. He comes with four years of control, including his final pre-arbitration season in 2018.
Martin, an eighth-round pick in 2013, brings the least fanfare of anyone in this trade, with Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic noting on Twitter that he may end up as a reserve outfielder down the line. MLB.com agrees that he won’t turn into a regular option in the corner outfield, though it rated Martin 15th in Houston’s system and suggested he has a chance to develop into a starting center fielder. The 22-year-old spent most of last season in Double-A, where he slashed .273/.319/.483 in 320 PAs.
Tim Brown of Yahoo Sports reported the Astros would acquire Cole, and he added that the Pirates would receive Musgrove and Moran. Jon Heyman of FanRag reported the Pirates would get four total players. Rosenthal reported that Feliz and Martin were in the deal (Twitter links). Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images.
So are they being serious this time?
Should be. Someone (think it was passan) said that the first one they jumped too soon at reporting
It was Morisi
Plus, keeps Cole from the Yankees.
Kershaw will go there after he opts out.
Lol! That’s not going to happen. Kersh is a Dodger for life.
You mean to say he is set financially for life. Now he just wants a ring, and he doesn’t care from where.
Dodgers won’t let Kershaw leave ever. They’ll give him part ownership of the team if they have to.
Not sure why all 19 of you think I meant the Yankees. The article is clearly about the Houston Astros and Gerrit Cole. Typical knee jerk reaction of today’s culture. Kershaw will go to the Astros or to the Rangers.
Not gonna say Cole is some pushover starter or even a #3. He’s a solid 2 but no ace. Yanks could’ve used him but they were asking for Frazier and that killed the deal. I’m glad the Yanks passed on him. Houston has a solid rotation now; I expect major regression in their offense and rotation and thats why I’m not mad or even phased by this trade. When you look at Houston’s lineup, anybody not named Altuve, Correa, Bregman or Springer is going to age and regress. Astros were very lucky to get all the production they did out of that lineup last year. You can all chill with the 2018 WS predictions. Verlander is way past his prime, and there’s no clear cut ace in that starting five. Bullpen is solid. Yanks are better, younger and on the upswing.
It was Torres that killed the deal
Terrible assessment. Astros are the champs and they just added a top or near top of the rotation starter. Go cry about your stankee failures instead of hating on Houston’s success.
Who’s crying. I was happy the rebuilding Yanks made it one game from a WS.
27 titles and 40 AL championships. if that’s failure … we should all be so lucky lol. you can not be a fan of the yankees, you can hate the yankees. but failures …. you’re delusional.
How exactly were the Yankees rebuilding lol
You are delusional.
Wait. Not named Altuve is going to age and regress? Springer is in his prime. Correa and Bregman are 23. And Altuve is an MVP. Not sure wtf you’re talking about.
I mentioned those four in my comment. Your lineup stinks past those four though. Don’t expect McCann, Gurriel, Marwin, Reddick and the DH (forgot his name) to have stellar years next year. Like I said: major regression is due.
Even after this ‘major regression’, the Astros are still likely to possess a top 5 to top 10 offense in the league. They have nothing to worry about.
This guys thinks the Yankees are better then the Astros, they were lucky to make it to game 7 of the ALCS
Bro. Just stop. You’re basing your assessment on feelings and not statistics. Just please stop
I’m not particularly interested in posting the advanced metrics on here, on which I’ve based my comment. Youre free to go look up the metrics on Gattis, McCant, Reddick, Marwin Gonzalez, and Gurriel though. Like I said, the rotation and bullpen are solid if not unspectacular. Offense is going to be a problem.
Offense could be even better. I don’t care what projections say. Yuli is solid, Reddick is solid, Gattis is solid. Marwin and McCann will probably regress, but that will be countered by ( hopefully ) full seasons from Springer and Correa.
Dude, there’s nothing in those players numbers that say “career year”. All of their numbers could not only be duplicated but could be improved upon. They won the World Series last year with Mike Fiers pitching the most innings for them last year at 153 1/3 IP, you REALLY think they are going to regress somehow? The only possible regression they may see is improvements in their division by the Angels (Upton for a full season and Otani), Texas, and Seattle.
of course the offense will regress. No one is expecting them to be a historically great offense team (Their team wRC+ of 121 ranks 9th in history since 1871). To say the offense will be a problem is silly though. If you’re able to back up your claims with stats, that’d be nice
But if the Yankees got him you’d be printing World Series Champs Shirts. Typical hater who’s living in the roaring 20’s.
Yankees are not better until they dethrone the world series champs.
No ace in Houston? Yea! Ok! Get out of here!
Oh no
I personally don’t think it really improves the Astros if they are giving up Musgrove
I would have accepted that offer too if I were the Astros
If I were the pirates I mean!
Lol what?
I legit can’t tell if you’re being serious or trolling. Gerrit Cole isn’t an upgrade over Joe Musgrove? When you’ve made Gerrit Cole your #3, you’ve improved.
Beisbolista after this and the Starlin Castro thread I can’t take you seriously.
Gerrit Cole over Musgrove, not an improvement? What? I know Musgrove is solid, but come on.
I can’t say that what you think of me affects my day. But if you’re interested in talking about my rationale and not just fangirling over name value, here’s my rationale.
I like Musgrove over Cole. I don’t think Cole’s horrendous HR/FB will play in the AL Central or in Houston (Minute Maid has a significantly higher homerun factor than PNC), and between the Pirates excellent pitcher handling, the NL Central, a bump in innings, and consistent opportunities to start, I think Musgrove will look much more like he did across the minors and much less like he did in limited and varying appearances with the Astros.
LOL! Houston’s front office already pinpointed Cole’s troubleshooting. Less 2 seamers, more sliders, and he’ll be fine. One bad year doesn’t mean much, especially when the velocity was up.
@newages
You’re downplaying Cole’s weaknesses. Fixing a spike in HR is not as easy as it seems. Also Cole will be facing a DH too.
The Pirates are known and renowned for their skill in handling pitchers particularly. I doubt the Astros have some magic want to fix Cole that the Pirates somehow missed. The Astros may have the better baseball ops department, but the Pirates specialize in fixing pitchers! You’re kidding yourself
Are you nuts?
Yes. Or delusional. There can’t be any other reason to say such asinine assessments.
Says the fangirl who didn’t provide an assessment.
I don’t have to provide anything. You’re literally the only person that believes Joe Musgrove is even someone that should be in the same tier as Cole. Musgrove hasn’t shown much of anything as a starting pitcher in the majors. He was a great reliever, but I find it very hard to believe that the pirates traded their top starter for 2 relief pitchers, a 3rd baseman and an OF. I really like Musgrove for what he gave to the Astros and the city I live in. But the fact that you really think that he is better or even close to Cole is a joke.
No support for your arguments whatsoever. As I said, your argument is based only on name value. It’s called fangirling
You really want me to get “support” to make your asinine take sound as stupid as it is?
Now you’re just trolling. Take a break Gerrit
Sike!
You mean “psych!”
Maybe he meant “sick?”
Either way, he got it wrong.
I can vouch for him, this is a common spelling in the Twitter world
Wow. Pretty lame haul for the Pirates
Lame is putting it nicely
Damn straight, dude.
Horrible return. Number 5 prospect who is already 25 and not in the top 100 and a pitcher not even in the Stros top 30? Wow.
Basically a third baseman who can’t hit and a back end starter who is really hittable. Feliz is a decent bullpen arm but if he’s the highlight of the deal… why couldn’t the Yankees offer chance Adams Tyler Wade and Shreve? That’s basically the same thing in terms of impact.
Musgrove is a quality arm in whatever role you put him in, the struggle for him his figuring out how to audjust his stuff the second time through the order. Guy throws a lot of strikes and has good stuff. If the coaching is good he can become a solid no. 2z
waaayyyy wrong on the thinking Moran cant hit, just not a ton of power which sucks for a 3B. He’s probably the best part of that trade. Weak haul overall. Real weak.
hes not in the 30 bc hes ineligible. he was a top 100 prospect before he lost eligibility
Moran’s eligibility is still intact (he only has 33 career MLB at-bats).
He was a Top 100 player for a single season (four years ago), more or less a formality for a guy taken at that position in the draft.
Scouts just didn’t like him at the start of the season. He hit .259 with 10 home runs and 124 strikeouts in the hitter-friendly PCL as a 23 year old in 2016. Those numbers aren’t good – at all. He had a strong bounce back year in 2017, but again, he was a 24 year old repeating a season in the hitter friendly PCL.
And that’s not even mentioning how his injury last season will affect him moving forward.
None of the pitchers were in the top 30 because they aren’t prospects. They both lost eligibility in 2016
Not really. Cole only has two years left and has been very up and down. Not inconceivable for Musgrove to be pretty comparable right off bat.
Yes, really. Cole’s ceiling is substantially higher than Musgrove and all the other dudes in this deal are low-ceiling types. Also, Cole will be paid under market value for his remaining two years of control, which adds to his value.
But the Pirates get 4 years of Feliz, 5 of Musgrove and 6 of Moran.
Sure, they get a bunch of dudes with multiple years of team control and that’s great. But all of those dudes are low-ceiling. The A’s got a similar pupu platter of unexciting players (plus a very young Barretto) for Josh Donaldson. That trade hasn’t worked out too well for them. I doubt this one will work out well for the Pirates either.
What, Graveman is chopped liver? Time will tell if Graveman and Barreto were worth it.
Why? Whats so great about Cole? Cole has stunk for two years now and two years of control so Cole is not worth all that much
It’s Happening.gif
RIP Whitley
Edit: he’s not going back. Wow what a lame fetch Pitt
That’s it?!
He sucks……so, yeah that’s it.
What the hell is wrong with Pitts?
First?
Doh!
I don’t think doing that was super necessary but a really good move
Seems like an overpay if all they’re getting is Cole
How do you figure? They gave up a blocked 3B prospect and a SP who needs multiple injuries to get into the rotation. Great move for the Astros
Delete this.
Delete This nephew
We need to be able to embed gifs to respond to comments like these properly
Lol the Astros gave up nothing to get Cole.
An overpay?? Moran is blocked and musgrove is nothing special
Musgrove is a Devo clone if he doesn’t work out as a starter so I wouldn’t say he’s not special.
Musgrove has the potential to be a MoR starter. He just wouldn’t have a chance here until 2019 if they lose both Keuchel and Morton, so he was also blocked. I really liked how he looked in the bullpen though
Just because a prospect is blocked doesn’t diminish their individual value. But either way I was referring to giving up 5+ years of Musgrove for 2 years of Cole. Musgrove has a pretty high ceiling.
That said, I understand the win now move for the Astros. Just don’t think they necessarily got equal value for what they gave up
the hot stove’s finally heating up?
That’s all? Seems light…
Only had to trade musgrove and Moran? Lmao pirates are full on tanking
Both were first round picks, so they have plenty of potential. Moran was hot before the foul ball accident. Musgrove also has Mid rotation potential. I’d say it’s an even deal considering that the Pirates were not going to make the playoffs with 2 years of Cole
I don’t know? I’m sure the Yanks offered Frazier and Adams. That’s two bona fide top 50 prospects. I’m sure there had to be better offers than this from other teams.
Do you SERIOUSLY think that the Pirates had better offers in hand, but purposely chose to accept a lesser offer? It is much more likely that either 1) they evaluate players differently than you do or 2) that the supposed offers some think the pirates received we’re not the actual offers.
Hahah first round picks don’t mean squat. Ask Taylor Ward…
Tanking? Another moron who does not even know what it means
I think it means driving a tank over troll’s hands so they can’t type anymore.
Trading for major league talent is a silly way of tanking. Sounds like they are trying to retool
Hahahaha unreal steal.
This seemingly fits the pirates needs better than some of the outfielders being discussed (assuming it’s real this time haha)
Are they the only two?
Not bad. Should have a bit more (A-ball lotto tix).
A real Shame to see Musgrove go.. but it’s better than losing Whitley. Colin Moran had no future with the Astros though, good for him
I’m glad he’s finally going to see some playing time. Even if it’s in another uni
Please be for real
There has to be more to this.
This is the ‘haul’ they’ve been holding out for?
Cole is not worth a “haul”. Amazing how people think some ace (from 3 years ago) is being traded. He stunk it up the past two years and trending in wrong direction. You are not getting “a haul” for Cole.
I am happy about this! Gave up marginal players for a high upside pitcher.
I’m about to have heart failure. Neal Huntington actually completed a trade? Who was holding a gun to his head?
Now time for cutch
Awesome! Pirates also believe in themselves acquiring two MLB ready players.
3 MLB ready players. Moran will start
Is this one going to be true? If so, the Astros will definitely have the best rotation in the MLB.
They were requesting gylber torres but ended up getting a 3B whos 25 already and a starting pitcher who has an ERA close to 5 in 100 innings. Is the other guy even their top 30? Steal for astros… Might see yankees swoop up darvish now…
The “other guy” is a 2 year vet, so no, he’s not in their top 30 prospects. Duh.
It seems this package isn’t in same realm as what the pirates wanted from the Yankees. This is a meager return
wow what a deal for the Astros
Wow. Very light return.
That can’t be all
wow the yankees package was better
You promise this is real this time?
Weak return.
Pirates asked for Torres from the Yankees, but took this from the Astros? Musgrave and Moran could get a #3-4 rental starter.
On the Astros, that’s what he is, minus the rental part.
Well what the heck you think Cole is? He is a 3-4 type starter not an ace and better then a rental. So based upon your logic the Pirates did well
Wow. That’s all they got?
Great deal for the Astros. Thought for sure the package would’ve been more…
what a steal
A steal? Lol. Funny
You’re not gonna change anyone’s mind.
This season’s performances will change people’s minds.
Best starting rotation in baseball. Repeat imminent.
Hardly
Yea sure Cole and his over 4 plus ERA trending higher makes them the best starting staff? Haha.
Boy casual fans see a guy who was an ace YEARS ago so its a big “known” name to guys like you and you have no clue to the reality that Cole stunk the past few years
Casual fans? Lol watch 130 games a year. Walk on home, boy. Astros easily have best rotation and it’s not close. See what Morton did under Strom. He’s about to show you what Cole was capable of while wasting away in Pittsburgh.
Isn’t Pittsburgh supposed to have the magic pitching coach though?
Proof is in the pudding. Keuchel, McHugh, Verlander and Morton all have gotten better under Strom.
What a horrible trade for the Pirates lol.
blah blah we want Torres, Tucker, Whitley lol
Saw Moran a ton down in Corpus with the Hooks. He has outstanding bat to ball skills and should grow into more power.
Really? He’s always had a questionable power tool. Generally players don’t grow into power at 25.
Players tend to develop more power as they get to the big leagues. I wouldn’t be shocked to see he him hit 20 homers next year with an average around .270. A 25 homer per year guy who can hit for average seems about right in the long haul.
He was always a player that scouts wondered if he was going to tap into his power. That is why he was drafted so highly and it looks like he is finally starting to tap into that power
Ain’t that the truth.
– David Ortiz
I think everyone in the World has figured out what David Ortiz “Found” to get all that power!
I like the deal. Moran will likely our future third basemen, an area of need.
Would you have rather had Moran at third or Clint Frazier in LF?
Speaking that we have Polanco, and Marte under control for a handful of more years, and Meadows in Triple-A, but have no solid answer for third base two or three years from now, I’d take Moran.
Most people would want the best package and if anything to flip those players. Moran has far less value than Clint Frazier. I think that you’re just defending this trade because you’re a Pirates fan.
I know, but The Pirates have depth, and future in the outfield, so it’s not a huge concern for them right now. Third base, however, has no real answer a year or so from now. Plus, I’m not a huge fan of this deal. I think it’s ok, but I also think they could’ve gotten a few more pieces out of it.
Moran over a top 15 prospect?
Pirates screwed this one up!
LOL, have you met Pirates fans? Most pessimistic lot in baseball.
Or maybe he just disagrees with you
What top 15 pick, that you have evidence of, was actually offered for Cole?
Don’t know if he was offered, but Torres from the Yankees would fit that description.
He’s talking about Frazier, although he’s no longer a prospect
But isn’t that the point, no one here actually has proof that Torres (or any other top 15 prospect was offered). Nor does anyone here have proof that the Yankees actually did offer Adams, who has helium, and Frazier, whose star has dimmed somewhat. Yet many seem to think that is all hard proven “fact”.
You never know, if Huntington really wanted a 3B then why not swap out Andujar for Frazier. That’s still better than Moran
The pirates got Raped on this deal. Good move for the Stros’. Possibly putting another bullseye on their backs as repeating WS champs. Only problem their going to have is maintaining future contracts to their players. Ride the wave Houston, just ride the wave
Thats…not a good word to use to describe a baseball trade…
Nor ride the wave Houston… Go ‘Stros
Too soon?
Very good word to describe that trade because that’s what they got!
Give him a pass, the birds won and we’re hype
Lol go birds!
Good, now the Yankees won’t get robbed of valuable prospects for him. Cole is overrated.
Did you see what the return was? They weren’t going to get robbed.
The pirates insisted on Torres and based on reports after the Yankees (rightfully) said no to being robbed and moved on the pirates settled for this package
Just like there was a report that they insisted on Whitley/Tucker, yet settled for this. Of course they’re going to ask high at first
Guessing this takes the Astros out of the running for Arrieta or Darvish? their agents have to hate these kinds of transactions.
Agreed. Darvish and Arrieta have to be getting nervous. The game of musical chairs could leave one pitcher with no place to go (at least for the money they are hoping for).
On another note, the Astros are freaking insanely awesome. The AL West is going to be tough to crack. Rangers are in no mans land right now. Few trade chips, high payroll, and most minor league talent is in AA or below.
what kind of blackmail did lunhow have on huntington&co if that’s the only return they got?
Future considerations for a job after the pirates fire him
The Pirates won’t fire Huntington. His boss told him to make this trade to help maintain the owners profit margin. It’s not about winning for this group.
Pirates officially a JOKE
It seems the Astros acquired a BJ’s card and got Cole for wholesale price.
Funniest comment on this site…excellent!
That’s an awesome analogy lol
30 yr old reliever too? oh wow….
nevermind “tim Brown reports…..”….
Michael Feliz is 24 and still has TOR upside. He’s probably the most exciting return for the Pirates.
Feliz…TOR?
I think you’re using that term extremely generously. He has a plus fastball (although it’s only around 93-94 as a starter as opposed to the upper 90’s out of the pen), but his secondaries are inconsistent and average at best, and he lacks control (4.1 BB/9 last season) and they catch the plate fairly frequently (career 1.5 HR/9).
He could potentially be a strong late-inning reliever (possibly a closer), or if they try him in the rotation, an inconsistent mid-rotation guy if he’s able to refine his stuff, but I can’t recall ever hearing Feliz mentioned as a top of the rotation type pitcher.
That’s why it’s called upside. He was a top prospect coming up in the Astros organization. TOR upside was always how he was advertised. Also, as a starter in the minor leagues, he consistently threw 94-96 and was clocked as high as 99. He’s also only 24.
A good but not great young starter and a third baseman with a low floor? I feel like the Pirates could/should have gotten more.
I posted this before the last two players involved were reported, but my point still mostly stands
So Pirates ask Yankees for #1 ranked prospect in baseball in Torres and when they say no they get nothing in return from the Astros. Pirates GM should be fired
Pirates go from asking for Gleyber Torres to trading Cole away to the Astros for almost nothing.
How is this almost nothing?
This is almost nothing!
A decent RP and an average IF if lucky..
They asked for Tucker/Whitley as well, so don’t be so sensitive
That’s the thing though, when the Stros said no to those two guys, why wouldn’t the pirates go back to the Yankees and lower that asking price. They Almost certainly could’ve gotten either Frazier or Andujar + which would’ve been a better return
apparently andujar was not available, but frazier was. They probably wouldn’t have gotten much more with Frazier, so they either choose quantity in positions of needs or get the best player at a position that they have a lot of already. And of course, the Pirates being Pirates, chose the quantity because they’re probably still trying to compete
This is the type of move that screams… we settled for this offer. Their was no need to settle for an offer. Just ridiculous front office and ownership of the Pirates.
Agreed
This can’t be the whole deal. 2 busts for Cole. Especially after they tried to get gleyber from the yanks
Nutting is an embarrassment to mlb he makes jeter look good. If there are still any people going to pirates games after this trade they are fools. I am looking for a new team.
If this is true and complete, the Pirates got owned hard. What an absolute joke.
He’s going to get lit up in the AL.
He was lit up in the NL the last two years… great analysis.
Lmao and the pirates wanted Torres?? Even the Frazier/Adams package was better than this. What a joke.
I kinda like the deal. I wish we could’ve gotten a little more, but I’ll settle for it.
EDIT: Musgrove, and Moran are the big pieces in this trade? They definitely could’ve gotten more out of this.
I’m not an Astros or pirates fan, but the return for Cole is around what I expected. Not one exceptional piece going back to Pittsburgh, but certainly players that could step up and be good contributors.
Neal Huntington: How not to negotiate 101
He took his lessons from George Costanza.
Maybe they’ll have a snow tires day at PNC next year.
Seems like a pretty lame haul
Quick now giants! If Pittsburgh is giving away players maybe you could pick up mccutchen for Hernandez, Tomlinson and a bag of balls
Seems like it may get some action.
LuhnDaddy strikes again!
That’s all they gave up? Wow. Luhnow saw Pitt coming.
Fringe teams in the AL should probably start rebuilding now.
Why wasn’t every contending team in the league involved in talks for Cole if this is all the return is?
Surprised the Dodgers didn’t jump in.
The astros need to add to the bullpen if they want to repeat. Holland is still out there.
They made three solid additions to the pen in Joe Smith, Anthony Goose & Hector Rondon.
Isn’t Gose an OF?
He move to the bullpen last year. Didn’t pitch well, but his stuff is supposedly decent with good velocity. He was a rule V guy, so not much risk and don’t see him as a big pickup at all
Gose is an upper 90’s throwing reliever now.
Gose always had elite arm and great speed and no bat. Watched him for years in Toronto. I hope he has control of that heater.
Rondon. LOL
This is true. They have an awesome lineup and a pretty good starting rotation. It’s incredibly hard to repeat and I doubt they do but I still don’t see the bullpen being good enough. Giles proved in the World Series he’s not dependable
trade opened up two 40 man roster spots. Could be used for a lefty reliever like Watson and maybe a lefty bat like Carlos Gonzalez?
Should have taken Yankees offer
Why? No one the Yankees were offering fit a need for the Pirates. They have a good OF and a very good prospect ready. No need for Frazier. The Yankees didn’t offer an infielder and that was a major need for the Pirates prior to this trade.
Because it’s baseball. Always take the better return. More depth is ALWAYS a good thing. And you can flip those players for more players
We don’t even know what they Yankees offer was.
I’m guessing Huntington was bent on fleecing the Yanks and cashman knew their offer was better. Backed off and the pirates had to settle
Just fair haul for Cole. Hard to imagine that they could have not done better. And the Blue Jays keep talking about wanting to compete in the AL. lol. It iseems the rich get richer and the poor get Diaz and Solarte.
Now it is time for the Yankees to step up.
Bad trade by Pirates. The Yankees wanted to give them top prospects but couldn’t get it done.
Pirates also got Jason Martin
The Pirates love any pitcher than can throw 94+ regardless of whether they are 30 years old and in AA or in the majors giving up 6 runs a game.
My Braves may as well keep Julio now if that’s all the Bucs got for Cole although I do believe Moran will be their 3B of the future and Musgrove will provide innings as a 4/5 In the rotation
Julio has more control remaining. Cole had just one season left, so it’s fair to expect a bigger return for Teherán.
Cole has two seasons left. Teheran has two seasons plus an option.
Plus Cole has better stuff, and if you think he’s been inconsistent, Teheran has been even more erratic.
The only reason I see Teheran bringing a better haul is because Cole’s is an underpay and the Braves FO has been pretty adept at building the current system.
Tim Brown blew this so hard.
Kecheul, Verlander, Cole…that’s a scary trio to face in the playoffs
Mets said the samething about their great rotation and what happened with that.
Oh god here we go
Better than the Yanks lol
Yankees will go farther then the Astros this year. Astro fans make me laugh, you guys win ONE World Series and you act like you’re the greatest team ever to play the game.
I mean they did win as the youngest team in the majors. Pretty impressive.
Let’s live in the present, not the past!
You can only win one a year.
Padres were the youngest team. Astros were middle of the road.
http://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/MLB/2017.shtml
Well maybe if the Mets had guys like Altuve, Springer, Bregman, Correa, and Gurriel supporting their staff things probably would have worked out differently for them.
any Houston/Pittsburg fan want to tell me how good this trade is? Was it fair? Keep in mind it only two years of control of a guy who had a declining ERA and gave up a lot of HR’s last year but has the potential to pitch like an ace.
Pirates need a 3B and Moran could be a steal. Musgrove moving to the NL, and to a friendly park could help turn him around. I think it is fair, Cole isn’t an ace and he only has 1 pitch which is his fastball.
One pitch. That’s funny.
Interesting. Musgroves 5 years of control may pay dividends down the line. Especially if Cole has another year like last year. Moran did very well in the minors last year. Could be really good.
Astros fan, I think it’s a light return especially if the ask was Torres from the Yankees. That would be asking for Tucker or Whitley from the Astros. I like Moran, but Bregman is better. Musgrove has no place on the roster. Feliz has some good stuff but he’s really inconsistent. Jason Martin was unprotected during the rule V draft and was not selected. He’s a couple years away. Young guy. Either way, I would prefer to keep Martes, Fisher and obviously Tucker/Whitley/Alvarez than the guys traded. It’s basically the Astros ML ready players with no place on the current roster with the exception of Martin.
it’s highway robbery for the Astros. they traded a worse pitcher and a ho-hum corner IF “prospect” for Gerrit Cole. i don’t even wanna mention Feliz and Martin because they’re essentially valueless in this deal.
i hate being a Pirates fan. that said, i’m happy the Yankees didn’t get Cole, but darn would i much rather have the rumored Frazier and Adams asking price than this trash package.
As a Yankee fan, I viewed the C. Fraizer/Adams package as a steep overpay. I dont think the package is too bad because I felt Cole to be over-valued in these trade projections. Its quite possible that the C. Frazier/Adams deal was never offered, since the Astros deal being much less, in terms of value, seemed to got the job done.
Feliz’s era looks awful but he’s still very young and hasn’t had an opportunity to be trusted as a starter. He was coming up projected to have TOR stuff, he was in the futures game, he throws hard, and at times had an unreal k/bb rate. Musgrove is in a very similar situation as feliz, the only difference is that Musgrove has been more reliable in the bullpen. I’m not very impressed with Moran but maybe his bat will keep him afloat while they’re rebuilding. Those two pitchers though will likely start in the rotation next year. Feliz reminds me of Vincent Velazquez, a guy with solid stuff but needs some polishing, and Musgrove could turnout to be a solid starter. I’m not saying this was a great deal for the pirates but it’s not like the Astros gave up nobody, it’s just that they have so much young talent there’s alot to choose from.
Houston fan here. I say it’s a fair trade and think Pittsburgh could easily win this deal. Cole has not only been marginally effective as of recent, he also only has two years of arbitration remaining. Don’t sleep on Moran, he’s blocked by the best infield in baseball and was our best infield prospect. Musgrove I’ve never been too high on but he’s sure to be a serviceable mid to back of the rotation starter. I think the real prize could be Michael Feliz, throws upper 90s with a nasty slider. He has some control concerns but still has the potential to be a TOR starter.
Interesting assessment. I am more inclined to agree with you, since I was never high on Cole to start. I think the Pirates had the chance to get a better deal if the C. Frazier/C. Adams rumors were true but i think its a fair package nonetheless.
Frazier didn’t fit a need for the Pirates. He would have been 5th or 6th on the depth chart in Pittsburgh just like he is in NY.
I can see what you are saying but they have been looking to move McCutchen. If they got Frazier they wouldve had another reason to do so.
Wait 6 years and add up the WAR for the controllable years for the players involved, then you’ll see who won this trade.
I’m also surprised it’s not more, but I don’t think it’s THAT bad for the pirates. Musgrove was surpringly good in the bullpen and could still turn into a BotR starter + he’s got 5 years of control. They also badly need a 3B and Moran is a decent MLB readyish prospect. I guess we will see if any of the other 2 are decent lottery tickets.
Feliz isn’t really a lottery ticket, he’s a former top prospect
it’s that bad. nothing about this trade makes it worth it for the Pirates IMO. but i’m not a scout or GM.
Musgrove will replace Cole in the rotation and Moran will take Kang’s spot. Both were top prospects that havent really had their opportunity. They fit what Pirates need. Fourth player to come still.
The deal is done. Musgrove, Moran, Martin, and Feliz are the return
When the Giants trade Bumgarner at the deadline they are going to get way more than this in return.
Of course they will. Bumgardner is an ace who’s absolutely dominated in the postseason. Cole was mediocre last year.
Giants will never trade Bumgarner, they never rebuild and he holds too much sentimental value.
There’s a rotation for ya
Why bother to play the season other than the Astros n NYY
why has everyone completely given up on the Indians? They won the most games in the AL and have most of their guys coming back. I’d say 1. Astros 2. Indians 3. Yankees
Why has everyone given up on the Red Sox? They won the AL East last season.
With Price returning healthy their rotation is potent. Sale, Price. Porcello, Pomeranz, Wright. All of their veteran position players underperformed with the bat and they will have a full season of Devers at 3B in 2018. They will be there with the Yankees at the end of the season.
Because they hopefully have heart and are professionals. I’m a Yankees fan and of course I want them to win but nothing at all is a guarantee. Two other open spots in the AL too.
Because stuff happens and it’s often the unexpected team that wins it all. So put 50$ on the Marlins.
Martin was Rule V eligible and went unpicked. Quality return NH!
Martin was the throw-in. Feliz, Moran and Musgrove were the key pieces.
He would have stayed in the majors the entire year if they picked him. Now they can keep him in the minors to develop him some more. I believe they still have to add him to their 40 man; I’m not 100% sure how that works
I’m ok with the trade. It depends on IF Moran is our full time 3b and hits. I was expecting more return for cole but at least NH finally made a trade.
Future 3b
2 possible rotation pieces
And a future OF.
Not too bad. Would have a higher-end. But ok with it if Moran & a pitcher work out.
Pitiful return.
Truly disappointing.
Not easy being a Pirates fan.
Pirates got robbed.
Pitt wanted to rape the Yankees,I am so glad they did not give in,WHO for Cole .
Pirates to cashman: we want multiple of your top prospects including Torres
Pirates to Astros: ok we bend over now
I knew this would happen lol. I didn’t want cole so I’m glad this trade happened. Maybe the starters market finally kicks into gear
Hopefully this drives Darvish’s price down a notch, since the demand for a SP went down one buyer. However, the supply of SP went down one pitcher as well. Who knows. The more time that passes by, the better prices a team is going to see for a player.
I feel like at the winter meetings all the GMs huddled around and said “look, Scott Boras and all the other agents are going to cave to us this year. Not the other way around” to each other and this is the result
Swore Yank fan. I rest my case about my other post and proves my point. Hope your rotation holds up to Houston. Hmm Grey vs Verlander lol
Old Sab vs Dallas K
Cole vs who? Lol.
Silly NYers as always.
R E N T F R E E
You act like Huston dominated that series. it took them 7 games against that pitching staff who was 5th best in mlb in 2017 and that was without a whole year of gray and a terrible 1st half from Tanaka
Doesn’t really matter. You lost. We won.
not as bad of a return as many are saying. 4 interesting players who could be quality players. let’s face it, you weren’t trading an Ace in cole. you can’t expect the world back in return for him.
in this trade alone, the Pirates are a worse team next season. that is one of the many reasons i hate this trade as a Pirates fan.
This is an example of denial, ladies and gentlemen.
Pirates were that desperate to trade cole. Might as well should have waited to the deadline of this is all they are getting lol. Pirates deserved to get fleeced
Too bad the Yanks didn’t get him. Always have something to say Yank Pat.
I’m sure you’ll find a reason why your glad the Yanks didn’t get him. Typical NYer. Talk garbage about someone not going to the Yanks and someone is God when they do. Pssssf please save it.
Oh give that “typical nyr” garbage a rest. We are just talking sports on a public forum lmaoooo
Yes I would have been pleased with giving up some of our top prospects for a guy who has only had one ace season and declining numbers over the last two years ………
Cole isn’t that good !!!!!!
No I won’t. Because it’s same deal with you. I give you respect if you showed respect. No I’m not a Houston fan. But you say the same garbage about every trade except the Yanks which are the best trades right. I remember the Grey trade. He was the next thing to God. Then the trade wasn’t going through. Then he was garbage n over rated. Then the trade went through he’s back to being the next Nolan Ryan.
Yanks should give up garbage and get back the best players for nothing. Their prospects are the best in the world. Yanks will win 125 games this year n go 11-0 in post season so says all the Yank fans. I can go on and on. Truth hurt.
Get over yourself your not all that. Yeah typical NYers. Full of $” h it
He is better than anyone in the Yankees rotation.
Yeah funny how all the Yank fans were all hyped up on a trade. Now is nothing. Just like Oshi when he turned down the Yanks. Hmm oh your getting Harper n Macho next year so it ok. Guess they will be over rated and not worth what they sign for when the Yanks don’t get them. Enjoy Stranton. Won’t be no MVP in 2018 that’s for sure. Remember Harper n KB have MVPs too. Lol.
How in the world did I not show you respect ? I didn’t even say anything to you earlier. And I wasn’t even on here when the sonny gray trade happened so I don’t care what others said
I love how you take a internet stranger’s words to heart over sports conversation. It isn’t that serious. You are so bitter towards my city for some unknown reason. You need yoga
Severino says hi and he is in more of a hitters league
You obviously didn’t see the countless Yankee fans on here who didn’t want cole ….
100% agree but dont tell a Yank fan that you bend them out of shape for talking about their c rap team. Glad Houston added Cole – Yank fans talking smack putting on an act. Really their scared now. Don’t let their fake act fool you. I’m not even an Astros fan. Good luck Houston will be rooting for you in the AL.
Maybe if you act grown up and showed respect. Every post I see ofva Tank fan is the same old story. If you don’t get that then what can I say. Just because this is a free forcall sports forum is no excuse. I don’t mind talking real baseball. But not with dislusional high ego people. I’m sure no positive I can show you many many post that will support my case. Yes it seems like every time the Yanks are in on someone and go else where then they are garbage and the trade done by that team was stupid. But the Yank trades are the best. You have no clue how things will work out. When the Cubs traded Torres for Chapman. Their was a reason. He got us the title that all we wanted for. Hope Torres is the next Jeter for you guys. But he has yet to play a season and already been hurt. Mean time we got that title. That was the purpose. So please at least don’t bash every signing by other teams than the Yanks. Even I would stoop that low.
Cole not that good. Of course not the Yanks didn’t get him for garbage. Glad Houston did. Did usca favor. lol. Bahhh
Not bitter at all. I love New York. Just the people are full of it. Think their Gods and God for bid if you speak against the Yanks.
Sounds like a Trump. Oh yeah he’s a NYer. Lol. Know love the city too bad it’s full of garbage.
Get over yourself.
We can back up to the report of the trade were they did. Many NY fans. But you have an answer for that too. Please get over it. Even the reports were the Yanks Cole Trade aren’t dead yet.
Now what? Archer wo Torres / Shef n Frazier at least.
Yeah your dreaming. Fulmer?
Hmm good luck. Again your in La La land.
Owners are not Miami with an former NY player running the team.
But I need Yoga. Practice what you preach Yank Pat. Your not all that even if you try to justify your stupid post
Yankeepat…
Im convinced he is a troll. He constantly spouts nonsesne and seems to argue amongst himself, responding to things no one ever said. I would just ignore him tbh
You want people to say Cole is good, when he is not. There are so many y comments from people, Yankees fans saying they didn’t want Cole at the Pirates asking price, then you come here acting like it was the other way. You are creating your own drama just to bash the Yankees.
Cole? You’re high on confetti fumes.
People that didn’t watch the Astros play everyday are (understandably so) severely underrating Musgrove. The guy can definitely start and has a strong ceiling as at least a number 3 starter. He showed late in 2017 that he can be a shutdown reliever if he doesn’t live up to his potential as a starter, which I really don’t see happening with Searage there. Moran was the number 5 prospect in a good farm system. He should have every opportunity to start next year, as he’s hit all throughout the minors. Michael Feliz is a power arm that will slot right into the bullpen and again, should benefit from the tutelage of Searage. Don’t know much about Martin
Seems weak at first glance. Moran was the 5th ranked Astros prospect and Martin is the 15th ranked Astros Prospect. I would think that the other two would be top ten prospects if they still had prospect eligibility.
Musgrove is better than most are giving him credit for. He was #32 prospect by BA before last yr when he pitched too many mlb innings to qualify. Was starting early in season and era suffered as he got lit up 3rd time thru line up. Moved to bullpen and did well.
#83* is a big difference from #32
I like Musgrove as a relief pitcher. He had a 1.44 ERA, a .862 WHIP, and opposing batters hit just 196 against him in 31 and a third innings. If he continues that production out of the pen, he can really help solidify an area of need.
You can’t rate a trade for prospects now, you have to see how they pan out. As a Pirate fan, 4 players (2 that were #1 picks) gives me some optimism. Trust me Astro fans, Cole isn’t as good as you think he is; I’m glad he’s gone, he was decent overall, not worth the money, gives up a lot of home runs, but mostly because he was a cancer to the other young pitchers, telling them to go for big money. He was & is in it for himself & the money. If one of the 4 prospects in return turns out good, the Pirates will win the trade.
Wouldn’t be surprised if musgrove is more valuable than 2 years of Cole on own, but still seems like a small return right now. Or at least a trade that doesn’t make Houston give up any key pieces from system that weren’t blocked
As usual Pirates getting below average return for their better players. They are a farm squad for the MLB. Maybe that billionaire that just moved to the ‘burg will buy the team off pay Nutting cheap ass.
If you’re a Pirates fan and you think you got burned, then you’re not much of a Pirates fan.
4 players ok. feliz will see the bullpen eventually. hopefully jason Martin will be better than jason rodgers
Add Feliz and Jason Martin going to the Pirates. Still not a fan of Cole or shipping off Musgrove.
Highway robbery
Open up your wallet—Mr Moreno & sign Yu Darvish
Laugh out loud at Huntington. He wouldn’t budge with the Yankees unless he got Torres.
Then he flips Cole to the astros for scrubs.
I would have taken Clint Frazier over all 4 of those players. Not to mention two other prospects that are 5x better than that yard sale he just got.
Huntington needs to go!
This
So he’s not going to Yankees because they wouldn’t include Torres? I’m surprised that they still couldn’t offer more than this….
He refused to trade with cashman unless Torres was in the deal
Good for Pitt. Takes Cole out of the NL and he’s not going to NY.
Spend that money NY lol
They offered more. Seems like GMs rather avoid trading with Yankees rather than getting the best deal for their team. This will haunt Neil for a while, as will the machado thing for the orioles.
They offered more? Says who dummy? Bowden?
Exactly what did the Yankees offer?
Fake news (yawn)
time will tell……but man that’s a pretty dissapointing return for the Pirates. Although Moran should cover the third base hole for the Pirates next season
Imagine having andujar at 3rd. And Frazier in left.
Not bitter about not getting Cole. Just bitter that rival teams are getting better without giving up anything.
We shall see what happens. Yanks should go get archer.
As a stros fan, I am thrilled. Really like the rotation of Verlander, Keuchel, Cole, McCullers, Morton and they still have McHugh and Peacock…..so that is 7 major league quality starters. Luhnow is not done making moves. I predict he will either sign Tony Watson or make a trade for a quality left hander for the bullpen. And then probably sign Carlos Gonzalez on a 1 year make good deal to give the Astros another veteran outfield option to add to George Springer, Josh Reddick, Marwin Gonzalez and Jake Marisnick. The great thing about this deal is they held on to Derek Fisher, Kyle Tucker and Forrest Whitley. I like Moran and Musgrove, they should both be on the big league roster for the Pirates this year. Moran I think can be a really solid major league third baseman, but he was blocked in Houston by Alex Bregman. Musgrove was a quality starter in the minors, pitched pretty well as a starter for part of the year last year in the bigs, but pitched lights out in relief. Feliz has great stuff but seems to blow up under pressure, and Martin is coming off a good year in AA ball.
Huntington got us again. That’s about all I can say about this disaster.
Solid deal in the end for the Pirates. It’s only 2 years of Cole and Cole has regressed two years in a row.
So wanted the Marlins to make a splash and get him
Cole will thrive behind Dallas, Verlander, Morton,
and McCullers. Instead of being the guy he can just pitch
Damn…I’m wondering why more teams weren’t in on this (Orioles) because Houston gave Pit a bag of balls for Gerritt Cole bay bay! Wrestling fans would get it. Props to Houston for unloading a bunch of guys they apparently didn’t want.
that’s exactly what the Pirates got is castaways from the Astros organization. this deal is *too sweet* for the Astros.
hopefully this will still allow Altuve to be an Astro 4 life!
It looks like a fair trade on both sides to me. Pirates won’t contend the next two years so why keep Cole? They picked up their Future 3rd basemen , some prospects and a pitcher who will Be added to their rotation. Astros add another solid starter. A 4.00 era being number 4/5 in Houston rotation is perfect for them. Win win
What a joke of a return. Hou robbed Pitt.
All those people who said the Yankees got one over on MIA are baked if they think that’s remotely comparable to this trade.
Good job by Houston, Pitt should fire their GM.
Agree lol
Absolute rob job by H-town
Dear Yankees, you can now send over Frazier, Adams, Florial and a Perez/Sauer type and get the arm you really wanted in Michael Fulmer. Thanks 🙂
Florial (and Torres/Sheffield) wouldn’t be in the deal. Just gonna break it to you now
Thanks for the insight Mr. Cashman. Hate to break it to you, but I’m sure at least two of the top 8 NYY prospects is in a Fulmer deal. Which isn’t going to actually happen bc Avila is a moron, but a boy can dream.
Watch it your talking to a Yank fan. Remember they want a great pitcher for garbage and their prospects are untouchable. Lol
But if it don’t happen Fulmer will not be worth it. Lol
See the track record. Lol
That’s why you have to ask for multiple top prospects and hope ONE actually pans out. Don’t want another Eric Duncan / Drew Henson / Brien Taylor media hyped prospect type to flop terribly. I’ll give them Jeter and Posada but there were a ton of farm system flops. Even Phil Hughes and Jobs turned out to be barely average.
I think the problem with Joba stemmed from them moving him back and forth from reliever to starter. That didn’t help his health at all.
I think if they left him in the pen (where he clearly belonged) his career trajectory could have been a lot different. Who knows.
Hughes was a mental midget couldn’t handle the NY limelight.
#truth to all of ur points
Braves could beat that Fulmer offer & we would take Castellanos with him
This is what they get?? Should’ve taken Frazier! He alone is better than all those guys combined.
Frazier is a very flawed hitter.
He is also really young
Pirates got quite the haul. I can see why so many teams balked at the asking price. I wonder if the rays would have accepted the similar deal for archer, maybe a little bit more.
It is funny seeing the Yankees lose out again. Their fans really flip on a guy quick. Just like they did when Ohtani ranked them as a top team he didn’t want to go to. My guess if the Stanton trade fell through they’d still be talking about how awful and overpaid he is.
I’m not for the Astros or pirates but I see how this could help them both.
I said same thing. Typical NYers
Wait till Harper n Macho don’t go to NY next year like they all swore too. Let’s see over rated. Over paid. Too much money. I can on.
There’s no way the Yankees go after Harper now that they have Stanton.
I was burned by Obtain, but let’s face it, he’s unproven. Never wanted Stanton and definitely don’t want Cole. Don’t want Machado or Harper either. Us Yankees fans want to see the kids come up and play. Seems like you’re stuck in the past regarding New Yorkers. You probably wouldn’t have cried if your favorite team acquired the NL MVP and his albatross contract either. Stanton makes the Yankees the best offense in the Big leagues, hands down. It’s no contest.
Offense is more than just home runs so it is a contest. Astros offense says hi.
Newcomb, Pache, Anderson, Fuller & Mauricio Cabrera for Fulmer & Castellanos
Tempting. I’d swap out Fuller (I think you meant Kyle Muller tho) for Wentz and u may have to add in a low level lotto ticket, but that’s a solid deal. Thanks for not being delusional about your prospects lol.
It’s interesting that the Astros were able to get this done without giving up a single top prospect while the Bucs were asking the Yankees for their very best.
Colin Moran was the Astros 5th best prospect and he hit very well in AAA and his cup of coffee with the Astros last year, but he is no Gleyber Torres.
Colin Moran isn’t even a top 100 prospect, he was once, before 2014. He hit well in the extreme hitter league PCL as a 24 year old.
The trade is a joke.
the stros do this and Dipship Dipoto thinks Seattle Rotation is good enough as is, What a joke. M’s last place finish equals total rebuild 2019
have to think the Yanks rumor was not real, or the Pirates valued their roster needs over the overall talent. if taking this offer over the Yanks, as an outfielder like Frazier wasnt a real position of need.
I just don’t get why the Pirates make the deal now for this return.
The world also seems to forget that he pitched in a Pitchers Park and somehow ended up with 31 homers by the end of the year …. he’s now going to a hitters park. I still tip my cap to the Astros. WHOLESALE VALUE! Haha
Finally let the little markets trade with each other so the big boys can go get darvish and arrieta. If AL is tougher to pitch in Cole May struggle
Hope your Yankees or Cubs or Dodgers do overpay for Darvish or Arrieta.
Houston is not a small market team
Wow big pickup for Houston they aren’t messing around they are going to make the best of there opportunity. They have to be the favorites in the AL on paper at this point.
They’re the favorites with or without him.
Kudos to the ‘Stros!!! Go for the WS twice.
So much for Whitley or Tucker being in the deal
Yes! Yankees dodged a bullet on this one. Cole’s not worth Pittsburgh’s asking price.
So glad the Yankees passed on Cole. He gives up way too many HRs/fly balls to survive in Yankee Stadium. He could improve his other pitches and have some success, but I bet it takes him a year or two to figure it out…right before he hits free agency. Save Adams and Frazier as pieces to add a starter at the trade deadline.
I’m sure the Yankees didn’t pull the trigger because of the asking price. And obviously it seemed to come down quite a bit. That’s not a great package. But we shall c what else happens with the Pirates. Seems like they r in rebuild mode now.
The reason for the delay is now clear…the Pirates wanted to wait until a Saturday evening, the eve of a Steeler playoff game no less, to try to bury this news.
Unimpressive return.
I wasn’t a big Cole fan, but the problem is in his head, the arm is great. Players can learn and mature. If Cole can stop his meltdowns the second something doesn’t go his way, he could be very very good,.maybe great.
Now where does this leave darvish, Lynn, arietta and Cobb ?
Astros win the World Series and go out and get Cole. Dodgers lose the World Series and basically go out and get nothing. As a Dodger fan, it’s frustrating. They need a solid RHP that can be a #2.
The Astros upgraded from Colin McHugh to Gerrit Cole in their rotation.. There was a real chance the Musgrove wasn’t even going to make the Astros roster coming out of spring training. He was behind Giles, Devinski, Harris, Smith, Peacock, and Rondon in the bullpen and would have t0 beat out Francis Martes to make a spot on the roster. Same goes for Feliz. Moran had nowhere to play on the Astros. Bregman is at 3rd and before the trade the Astros talked about Moran getting a look in LF in spring training but they prefer Marwin and maybe Derek Fisher in LF. The Martin guy is someone Astros fans haven’t even heard of much before.
So yes, I think the Astros did pretty good getting Cole for what would have been 2 mop up guys in the bullpen, a back up third basemen, and a guy Astros fans hadn’t even heard much about in Jason Martin..
As an angels fan in the AL West, I would take Gerrit Cole to pitch for the ‘Stros than Darvish any day.
How good is this trade actually? For a club, that obviously will be fighting for the last place in NL Central, with no more than 75 wins in each of the next 4 seasons at least, the trade is normal. For a club, that proclaims in any given moment how it is going to contend and it’s goal is reaching the World Series, this trade is a disaster.
Four players for one mediocre pitcher? Good deal for the Pirates.
Don’t think the Pirates got outright fleeced if Musgrove lives up to his potential, but the Astros won this trade.
Not a good deal but still not a terrible trade. Cole had a down year but i feel he was a good bounce back candidate especially if he can cut down on the hrs. The part that upsets me is that the Pirates are deff worse without him nd had a good chance to compete for the wild card with him nd Taillon at the top of the rotation. There was soo much dysfunction and turmoil last yr, the bucs never had a chance. But now atleast these pickups can compete at the mlb level now. Musgrove will prolly be the #5 nd will most likely be inconsistent but show flashes. Moran should be our starting 3B, I dont mind his lack of HR power but he has to hit doubles nd get on base to be successful. I think Feliz will be excellent in the pen nd should make the most immediate impact. Martin should be decent OF depth. Overall I feel this deal depends on the success of Moran, if he does good then its a good deal for the bucs, if not then i still feel Feliz will be good but this will look like an L for Huntington. Just my 2cents
The return isn’t the sexiest, but I think it only reinforces what a lot of posters in here, and people out there, think. That Cole is a touch overrated. Or at the very least, that there are concerns with him not being more than a middle of the rotation arm. As a Yankees fan I was ok with acquiring Cole, but only at a discount. Cole in the AL East might not have been a great match. The stuff an be great at times, mediocre at others.
That being said, the return is solid, but unspectacular. However, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that Musgrove pitches as well as Cole has in Pittsburgh. And he has 5 years of control. Musgrove was terrific coming up, and a rough go as a rookie starter has maybe clouded that.