Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Wait, Where is Mike Napoli?

This afternoon I was at work and my friend Will came up to me and showed me his ESPN sports update. It stated "Mike Napoli, C/1B, has been traded to the Rangers," and I had a read it twice. It was Friday that Napoli was traded with Juan Rivera to the Toronto Blue Jays and now he's headed to the Texas Rangers. Mike Napoli was traded for Frank Francisco and cash money. There is space in the catching position and at first base so Napoli will have plenty of playing time. But it was pointed out that with the acquisition of Napoli, there is no room for Vladimir Guerrero, (former Texas Ranger). In the 2010 season, Napoli posted 26 homeruns, a .238 batting average, and a career high 137 strikeouts. He has a .931 OPS against left-handed pitchers, which will help out the Rangers who have a two left-handed first basemen who struggle to hit other lefties. Frank Francisco joins a completely remade Toronto bullpen, with pitchers such as Jason Frasor, Jon Rauch, and Octavio Rotel. The 31 year-old, right-handed pitcher posted a 3.76 ERA in 52 2/3 innings. In 2009, Francisco saved 25 games, proving that he is versatile in the bullpen. This appears to be a good trade for both sides, giving them strength where they need it. In all honestly, I hope that Mike Napoli still had his suitcase packed and did not get too settled in Toronto. And talk about going from one extreme to the other, Los Angeles to Toronto, to Texas. I do not envy this catcher, but am still looking to pick him up in my fantasy league. Especially with a loaded Rangers lineup to back him up. Good luck in Texas Mike Napoli, and try to stay there longer than 4 days! 



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