D'BACKS, M'S SWING A 5-PLAYER BLOCKBUSTER
The Arizona Diamondbacks acquired pitcher Taijuan Walker and infielder Ketel Marte from the Seattle Mariners for infielder Jean Segura, pitcher Zac Curtis and outfielder Mitch Haniger.
What does it give the Arizona Diamondbacks
For the Diamondbacks, this deal could have a major impact on their starting rotation in 2017 if Walker fully recovers from foot and ankle problems. Still only 24, Walker was considered one of the top pitching prospects in all of baseball not too long ago. Marte will have a chance to win a starting job in Arizona, either at shortstop or second base, and could also be a candidate to bat leadoff if he proves himself in spring training. This was an intriguing and important deal for both clubs.
What does it give the Seattle Mariners
For the Mariners, swapping Marte for Segura should give Seattle an important upgrade at the shortstop position (offensively). They might lose a little bit defensively, since Segura spent most of his time at second base with Arizona in 2016, but he is a more accomplished hitter. Segura could bat leadoff for Seattle in 2017. Curtis is a quality left-handed reliever with plenty of promise. He might be used in a setup role in 2017. As for Haniger, he could be Seattle's fourth outfielder.
Fantasy impact
Segura moves from the NL to the AL in a notorious pitchers' park (Safeco Field), so his fantasy value will not see much of a spike (if any). He is still a decent fantasy choice, and a little better as a shortstop than second baseman. Walker figures to bounce back in 2017 but temper expectations a little bit due to ball-park factors. Marte has some sleeper appeal if he winds up as a starter at either shortstop or second base for the Diamondbacks, while Curtis could be a sneaky-good source of holds for the M's in '17. Haniger's fantasy value is limited, since his playing time figures to be limited as well.
