We Got Wood - 40.06 - Vodak, We Hardly Knew Ye

[7teen]

The season of taking and then re-gifting is still upon us here in Portland. The most recent piece to be taken by the Lumberjacks and then sent packing before ever making it to Portland is Timofei Bakitski, or the man they call "Vodak". Vodak, a polarizing figure in the BBA since his days with Phoenix, was another one of GM Chris Wilson's big ticket flip projects taken in the Expansion Draft. A $9 million salary and a -1.0 WAR had many wondering what the club could possibly flip him for, whether he could be flipped at all. Luckily for the Wilson, a trade partner in former division rival Ron Collins came calling, desiring the services of "Vodak".

"We were a little concerned for sure after the draft" said Wilson. "We were worried we may have over estimated the league's desire of relief pitching. Thankfully for us, things are starting to fall into place. Trading Bakitski continues to clear up the cap space we overshot in the draft while continuing our push for younger players on the roster."

The key piece coming back to Portland in the trade is centerfielder Brandon Howeth-Arnenson Jr, or BHAJR as some call him or just "Wheelz". Wheelz is an elite defensive centerfielder that draws comparisons to one of Wilson's former players in Madison.

"He looks a lot like Niccolo Machiaveli" stated Wilson. "Machiavelli won several diamond gloves with us in Madison and we don't see any reason why Howeth-Arnenson can't do the same in Portland. The big question mark will be whether Brandon can hit consistently to stay in the lineup. We like him as a lefty and it could fit into our park well."

Also coming to Portland in the deal is Anastasio Hernandez. Hernandez is the polar opposite of Howeth-Arnenson as he's more of an offensive threat while lacking in the defense department.

Both will be vying for a spot on the Portland roster on opening day. Howeth-Arnenson's age and potential depth at the corner outfield spot may make it tough for both come April. Only time will tell.

[bschr682]

You have done a fine job flipping those expansion guys.

[7teen]

You have done a fine job flipping those expansion guys.

I'm starting to wonder if I didn't flip them too low. But when you put yourself $43 million over budget you sort of tie your own hands there.

Told myself I had drafted a decent team with some solid players. Of course that team was $33 million over the cap so I'm sure we could all build a decent team that way.

Right now I'm just trying to find guys I can keep long term until I can build through the draft and maybe free agency in a few seasons. Most of the bad contracts I have now are just 1-2 year guys at this point so the committment on Portland's end isn't long term or damaging

[RonCo]

My general rule of thumb when you're in a full-blown sale is that I need to be closing any deal that seems reasonable.