The post will focus on a baseline that was suggested by a scout. So,
yes, the opinion of a single professional is how we will value Jones'
worth here. What is that worth? It was posited that Adam Jones would
be worth a top 25 player, a top 50 player, and a top 100 player. In
other words, I would translate this as meaning a A-, B+ and B level
player. One final way of looking at it, a 60, a 56, and a 52. That
means that some in this business think very highly of Adam Jones. We at
the Depot have not thought as highly of Jones in the past, but what
matters is who values him the most.
This fourth part will focus on packages from AL East teams.
Boston Red Sox
Xander Bogaerts, 3B
Sean Coyle, 2B
Anthony Renaudo, RHP
Jacoby Ellsbury. Next.
New York Yankees
Dellin Betances, RHP
Mason Williams, CF
Manuel Banuelos, LHP
Curtis Granderson. Next.
Tampa Bay Rays
Alex Torres, LHP
Chris Archer, RHP
Drew Vettleson, RF
I find it doubtful that the Rays would deal out one high priced center fielder (B.J. Upton) and plug in another high priced center fielder.
Toronto Blue Jays
Jake Marisnick, CF
Aaron Sanchez, RHP
Justin Nicolino, LHP
Marisnick is one of my favorite prospects. During our 2009 shadow draft, I pestered Nick to select him probably more than deserved. Everything he does is above average. His contact, his power, his speed, his defense, and his arm. No tool stands out as plus to me, but the package is an excellent prospect and one who could roam center for the Orioles in 2014. The Blue Jays tinkered with Sanchez and worked on his control. He has room for growth and works steady in the low 90s with a curve ball that flashes plus. He is several years out, but looks like a 2 slot pitcher. Nicolino is another prospect who is several years out, but he shows a fringe plus fastball and a fringe plus change up. He projects to be a middle rotation pitcher.
Conclusion
None of these deals are good enough and three of the potential trade partners would likely have no interest in Jones. Toronto has a large number of interesting pieces, but very few of them are show ready. I could see a Travis Snider being added to the above deal to provide some 'now' value. Going through the teams so far, I still think the Braves and maybe the Giants match up the best.