TEJADA TO HOUSTON
The Houston Astros acquired shortstop Miguel Tejada from the Baltimore Orioles for outfielder Luke Scott, pitchers Matt Albers, Troy Patton and Dennis Sarfate, and third baseman Mike Costanzo.
What does it give the Houston Astros
In Tejada, the Astros get a huge offensive upgrade at the shortstop position over Adam Everett--but just as big of a downgrade with the glove. Still, Tejada should be a major contributor instantly in Houston, since he'll be surrounded by sluggers such as Lance Berkman and Carlos Lee. The 'Stros paid through the nose to get Tejada, but their ball park caters to offense so the team is clearly building around Minute Maid Park.
What does it give the Baltimore Orioles
The Orioles did very well for themselves in this mega swap. Scott is a serviceable corner outfielder who may wind up in a left-field platoon with Jay Payton. Albers and Patton should immediately contend for spots in the O's rotation in 2008, and both may become fixtures before long. Sarfate is a good bullpen arm who should also crack the opening-day lineup in Baltimore, while Costanzo immediately becomes the club's third baseman of the future. The only thing left to be determined in Baltimore is Tejada's replacement at shortstop, though the team has enough assets to make more moves now.
Fantasy impact
