GIANTS ADD LEFTY RELIEVER WILL SMITH
The San Francisco Giants acquired pitcher Will Smith from the Milwaukee Brewers for pitcher Phil Bickford and catcher Andrew Susac.
What does it give the San Francisco Giants
The Giants had a need for a left-hander in their bullpen, since Javier Lopez is aging and Josh Osich is currently on the disabled list. Therefore, getting Smith from Milwaukee could be a big coup as they attempt to win yet another World Series title. Smith could be an option to close, or pitch the eighth inning for the Giants.
What does it give the Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers received a ton in return for Smith, a quality reliever on a non-contending team. First, Susac is a solid catching prospect who is nice insurance for Milwaukee (since starter Jonathan Lucroy is also on the trade block). As for Bickford, he is a high-end starter prospect who is a few seasons away from the bigs.
Fantasy impact
The move to San Francisco could make Smith an outstanding fantasy reliever, so his stock is clearly on the way up again. Susac's stock is also rising, especially if he winds up as Milwaukee's starting catcher in 2017. As for Bickford, he was already a strong keeper-league pitcher. Now, his big-league expected time of arrival should be accelerated going from the Giants to the Brew Crew.
