RED SOX ADD LHP SALE IN BLOCKBUSTER DEAL
The Chicago White Sox acquired pitcher Chris Sale from the Chicago White Sox for infielder Yoan Moncada, pitcher Michael Kopech, outfielder Luis Alexander Basabe and pitcher Victor Diaz.
What does it give the Boston Red Sox
Wow. The Red Sox are selling off prospects like a house on fire right now, but they clearly addressed their needs in the starting rotation by adding Sale--one of the most dominant pitchers in MLB. He should establish himself as the new staff ace (ahead of 2016 Cy Young winner Rick Porcello and last winter's big signing, David Price). The latter struggled a bit in his first season in Beantown, so there is some concern about Sale's ability to adjust to pitching half the time at Fenway Park.
What does it give the Chicago White Sox
For the White Sox, this move signals the start of a commitment to a prolonged rebuilding plan. In landing Moncada, Chicago was able to secure one of the best prospects in the game. Moncada should see significant time in MLB in 2017, either at second or third base (if the Chisox decide to deal veteran 3B Todd Frazier). Kopech could be another huge addition as a potential closer or staff ace of the future, while both Basabe and Diaz have some upside as prospects.
Fantasy impact
Sale's fantasy value should remain the same, even if his numbers mirror those of Price in his first year in Beantown. That is because of Boston's ability to provide plenty of run support. Moncada could benefit from the move to Chicago on a short-term basis, since he seemed to press a little playing under pressure with the Red Sox late last season. In the long run, his value remains stratospherically high. Kopech also has big-time upside but might not have enough weapons to start in MLB (which would reduce him to closer duties, eventually). He is a strong keeper, either way. Basabe has five-tool talent so he should be on the fantasy radar for the future, while Diaz has some potential as a late-inning reliever down the road.
