RANGERS ACQUIRE STARTER GARZA
The Texas Rangers acquired pitcher Matt Garza from the Chicago Cubs for infielder Mike Olt, pitchers Justin Grimm and Carl Edwards Jr., and a player to be named later.
What does it give the Texas Rangers
The Rangers needed more help in the starting rotation in order to contend for the American League West Division crown this season, especially due to the fact injuries have hurt them this season. Enter Garza, who will hopefully perform better than last year's trade acquisition from the Cubs: {P Ryan Dempster}. Garza is younger and owns better stuff than Dempster but he will have to get reacquainted (quickly) with the American League. Texas gave up a lot to get him, and there's a good chance Garza will leave as a free agent, so he needs to make an early impact.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
The Cubs did very well here, landing three known prospects and the possibility of two more to be named later. The key to the trade may be Olt, formerly a top third-base prospect who has fallen on hard times lately. Still, he only turns 25 next month and could be a long-range solution for Chicago at the hot corner (a trouble spot for the Cubs for years now). Grimm is a decent prospect who already has big-league experience, while Edwards may be the gem of this deal. He's still a ways off but displays dominant qualities as a starter. All told, this was a great trade for Chicago.
Fantasy impact
Garza may take a small hit in fantasy value moving back to the American League, but his chances for wins has increased. Olt may finally have a clear path to a third-base job with the Cubs. He is now an intriguing fantasy option. Grimm could be in the mix for a starting job with the Cubs later this season (or next), but his long-range upside is minimal. However, Edwards is a true keeper with great upside. He might eventually become Chicago's ace in the rotation.
Player focus
Chicago Cubs
player to be named later in 2013 - Neil Ramirez
