More moves …
The Washington Times tweeted that the Nationals have acquired 1B/DH Daryle Ward and OF Norris Hopper from the Chicago White Sox for cash.
The 34-year old Ward returns to the Nationals; he previously played for the Nationals in 2006 before being traded to Atlanta for RHP Luis Atilano. Ward was batting 255/339/397 for Triple-A Charlotte.
The 30-year old Hopper was hitting 329/386/368 in 20G for Triple-A Charlotte after 52G with Triple-A Louisville where he hit 280/320/350 with a combined 16 SB in 21 attempts.
#1 by Nate - August 6th, 2009 at 14:03
Let me be the first to say, “WTF?” Hopper I understand, for AAA outfield depth, but Ward? Again?
#2 by Mark - August 6th, 2009 at 14:38
I don’t get it, either.
#3 by SpringfieldFan - August 6th, 2009 at 14:39
Brian, thanks for the quick work on the big board. I’m suffering a little whiplash today.
#4 by Brian Oliver - August 6th, 2009 at 14:40
SF – As am I. I got the Plasencia post up and was updating BB when the trade news came out
#5 by Pilchard - August 6th, 2009 at 14:50
I think the Nats don’t want Adam Dunn playing 1st full time (nor do they want Dunn sharing the position with Willingham). Ward will play 1st a fair bit giving the Nats a line-up of two defensively challenged players (Ward and Dunn).
#6 by ckstevenson - August 6th, 2009 at 15:01
Chico is reporting that both are AAA fodder to round out the roster there…
#7 by Wallyball - August 6th, 2009 at 16:41
Brian – OT and apologies for reposting from several posts ago, but I listened to your podcast with Steven, and I wondered if you think Aaron Thompson is a better prospect than Scott Barnes (the guy the Indians got for garko)?
#8 by Brian Oliver - August 6th, 2009 at 16:44
Wally – Sorry about that, I saw it but forgot to reply. I believe that Barnes is a better talent than Thompson in part based on abilities but also given his contractual status. He was drafted in 2008 while Thompson was drafted in 2005 meaning Barnes has a bit more margin for error in development given he would need to be added to a 40-man for another two seasons
#9 by BinM - August 6th, 2009 at 20:03
Both Ward & Norris are AAA organizational players, IMO. The acquisition of Ward may be insurance from Eldred being out long-term due to injury, and the posssibility that Morse gets a call-up to WSH. Norris just fills a gap in the SYR OF, because the WSH depth-chart isn’t really all that deep in viable OF prospects at the AAA level.