Scott Miller Of Bleacher Report On Scott & Jeremy
Scott Miller of Bleacher Report joins Scott & Jeremy to discuss the latest action in Major League Baseball.
Generally, there are not as many big names traded at the deadline as there were this season in the Majors. Moreover, it's not often a case of big player for big player. This season was different.
"I was surprised, especially given the big names involved, such as major league players for major league players," said Miller. "Usually, the blockbuster players go for prospects, but that wasn't the case with the Lester and Lacky trades."
One of the most surprising of those moves was Rays ace David Price going to Detroit. Many in the baseball media circles have second guessed Tampa's decision to trade price, given their hot streak toward October.
"That was the thinking of a lot of people around the game. I always give Tampa the benefit of the doubt, but I'm not sure this time. Though, that short stop they got is the real deal," said Miller.
"That's a fine line you walk if you're Tampa Bay. You don't get that many opportunities when you get a season like this. Detroit stayed competitive, as did Oakland, but Tampa Bay did not do."
As for those teams who received those ace pitchers, it's tough to split the hairs in the AL and pick a flat out favorite. With both teams making serious trades at the last minute, the Tigers and Athletics seem to be even.
"Between the Tigers and Oakland, I think it just depends. One week the A's have the better rotation, and one day the Tigers have the better rotation. I would however give the nod to the Tigers because of their postseason experience," Miller said.
"When Oakland got Lester yesterday, I think that's what they gained. They didn't have that before."
Moreover, Baltimore's division looks to be a two-team race as well.
"Joe Garardi might be doing his best job of managing yet, because there's no reason they should be in it. So, I think it's definitely between the Orioles and the Bluejays," said Miller.