CARDINALS, A'S SWAP PITCHING PROSPECTS
The Oakland Athletics acquired pitcher Josh Lucas from the St. Louis Cardinals for pitcher Casey Meisner.
What does it give the Oakland Athletics
Lucas is older than Meisner and not as heralded (he was selected in the 21st round of the 2010 MLB Draft), but he is much more major league-ready than Meisner. Last season at both Triple-A and in the majors, the lanky righty reliever showed good control and strikeout ability--so he may help Oakland soon. Expect him to get a callup sometime this season.
What does it give the St. Louis Cardinals
Meisner is a talented prospect but his numbers in the minors have not quite shown that talent level. The 2013 third-round draft pick posted a 4.12 ERA with just 37 strikeouts in 59 innings pitched over 12 starts at Double-A last season, so perhaps he is in need of a change of scenery. Like other jumbo-sized pitchers, perhaps he will prove to be a late-bloomer.
Fantasy impact
Meisner is not fantasy relevant yet (and may not be anytime soon), while Lucas is a solid relief prospect (although not one who looks close to taking on a high-leverage role for Oakland). With all that in mind, there is no fantasy impact with this deal.
