JAYS SEND MANAGER FARRELL TO BOSOX
The Boston Red Sox acquired pitcher David Carpenter and manager John Farrell from the Toronto Blue Jays for infielder Mike Aviles.
What does it give the Boston Red Sox
Boston's dismal and forgettable season ended with the firing of manager {B Bobby Valentine}, leading to this move to bring Farrell back into the fold. A former pitching coach with the BoSox (from 2007 to 2010), Farrell was coveted by Boston ever since his departure and the team has announced he's been signed to a three-year deal through 2015. Carpenter has a live arm and may compete for a roster spot with Boston, while the departure of Aviles opens the door for defensive standout {P Jose Iglesias} to take over at shortstop.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
While well-liked in Toronto, Farrell didn't get the Jays to finish above .500 in either of his two seasons at the helm. The team's biggest problem this past season was pitching (in part due to an uncommon number of injured arms) and Farrell's expertise didn't help much with the Jays' underachieving staff. Aviles may start at either second base (since {P Kelly Johnson} is set for free agency) or shortstop (depending on the team's plans with {P Yunel Escobar}), or he could also wind up in a utility infield role with Toronto.
Fantasy impact
The biggest impact here could be made by Farrell, whose main task will be to turn around Boston's dismal pitching. Of course, the Red Sox first need to acquire better arms for Farrell to work with. Aviles has a bit of fantasy value with Toronto, though it's unclear whether he'll be an everyday player with his new team. Carpenter's value is minimal unless he impresses greatly in spring training.
