METS ADD PUTZ IN BLOCKBUSTER
In a three-team, 12-player swap, the New York Mets acquired pitchers J.J. Putz and Sean Green, as well as outfielder Jeremy Reed from the Seattle Mariners; Seattle acquired outfielder Franklin Gutierrez from the Cleveland Indians and pitchers Aaron H
What does it give the New York Mets
The addition of Putz and Green further strengthens what was the Mets' main weakness (bullpen). Putz will set up new closer Francisco Rodriguez, while Green has a chance to be used in either Heilman's or Smith's old role in middle relief. Reed adds outfield depth to the Mets cause.
What does it give the Seattle Mariners
The key player for Seattle in this mega trade is Gutierrez, who will likely take over in center field in 2009. He has great tools but needs to put it all together. Heilman may start or relieve for Seattle, while Vargas adds depth to the pitching staff. Chavez will likely reprise his role of fourth outfielder in Seattle, while Carp has a chance to win the first-base job. Cleto and Carrera are long-term prospects.
What does it give the
Joe Smith should help the Indians bullpen, as he'll be a righty specialist in front of Jensen Lewis and new closer Kerry Wood. Valbuena is an intriguing second-base prospect with a chance to unseat Asdrubal Cabrera and Jamey Carroll right away.
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Seattle Mariners
