File this one under duh, but it’s still worth learning what kind of package the San Diego Padres might consider for Adrian Gonzalez this winter. In short: a lot.
The Padres are expected to listen, but with Gonzalez making just $5.5 million next season and the Padres’ successful 2010 season leading them to believe they could only make themselves weaker without him, the pricetag in terms of talent would be enormous.
How big? For example, one executive said a package of outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury [stats], infielder Jed Lowrie and first base prospect Anthony Rizzo would not be enough. Would the Red Sox even consider such a deal in the first place? Assuming they would and it would not be sufficient, the names of starter Casey Kelly or shortstop Jose Iglesias will start to get mentioned. BostonHerald.com.
Given that they were competitive in 2010, and given than Gonzalez costs just $5.5 million in 2011, it’s hard to blame the Padres for demanding a king’s ransom in trade, despite the fact that Gonzalez is under contract for just one more year. If the Padres are going to deal Gonzalez before the season even begins (and before they have a chance to see if they can compete again), they’re going to require a whole lot in return.
As for the packages discussed above, it is difficult to contextualize them in terms of Chicago Cubs. Suffice it to say, the “rejected” package includes two very good, young, inexpensive ML regulars and a first base prospect who just put up an .815 OPS in AA at age 20. Think something like Andrew Cashner, Tyler Colvin, and Josh Vitters. And that’s the one that gets rejected.
Kelly and Iglesias are top 25 (in all of baseball) type prospects. At that level, you’re talking about the Chris Archers, Brett Jacksons, and yes, even Starlin Castros of the Chicago Cubs.
Something to think about.