LaRoche to Pirates

In a sad day for Andy, older brother Adam was traded to the Red Sox for Argenis Diaz and Hunter Strickland.

Red Sox Side: In a move likely based on the fact the Sox don't expect Mike Lowell to last the season, they picked up the typical 2nd half performer for a ball-park fairly well suited for him. LaRoche was hitting .247-.321-.441 at the time of the deal with 12 homers and 40 RBI's. He is an above average defender at 1B, but is a lefty stick, which doesn't make a ton of sense for the Sox unless they put him in a platoon with Lowell to try and rest him.

Pirates Side: Diaz is a toolsy 22 year old SS who is struggling at AA, hitting .253-.309-.310. Without seeing him play and seeing a line like that, I am inclined to think utility player, though he is still very young. This is the 1st I had ever heard of Hunter Strickland and he appears to be a control artist. At Low-A, he was 5-4, 3.46 in 83 and 1/3 innings with 13 walks and 51 strikeouts, but 11 homers allowed.

Analysis: A minor deal where the Red Sox get a little value for a small price and the Pirates save some money and get to continue to replenish their farm system. Would say the Red Sox win this one, as I expect Diaz to be a utility infielder and don't think Strickland will make it based off his early results, though he is 6-5, 200 so there is some projection there.