The Brewster

As part of improving Valencia’s financial status, the Stars’ front office sent starting pitcher Ruben Vazquez to the Las Vegas Hustlers for $1. The deal also cost Valencia a couple of prospects, namely AAA outfielder Angel Trejo and AAA reliever Rafael Gonzalez.

Although the finance have improved to where the cash in game is maxed out at $20M, the Valencia brass wanted to open up free agency options by ridding themselves of the $10.5M salary/-0.8 WAR of Vazquez. The move gives the Stars a $41.6M checkbook for free agency this off-season.

As mentioned, transferring that salary to Las Vegas did come at a cost. Outfielder Angel Trejo hit .314/.378 in his third season at AAA while hitting 16 homers. He did not fare well in his September callup (.167/.286), but the 22 year-old still is considered to have potential to contribute at the major league level in a minor role with an overall rating of 45.

Reliever Rafael Gonzalez went 4-2 with a 4.32 ERA in his third year in AAA. The 23 year-old also is a candidate to contribute with an overall rating of 45 while striking out 47 batters in 50 innings thanks to his 100 mph heat.

Inside sources stated that the same deal was worked out with Vancouver only to have Vazquez nix it via his no-trade clause.

Las Vegas promptly released Vazquez and paid the remainder of his salary. Rumor has it that Vazquez is in the free agent market seeking a $1.8M/1 year deal.

Commish has a glut of these 45 rated outfielders.

Looking forward to see how you reshape Valencia for 2061. The team was on the cusp of the playoffs but need an injection of talent.

Curse you Vasquez

Knucklehead254 wrote: ↑

Thu Oct 17, 2024 1:05 pm

Curse you Vasquez

I hear you saying it in the voice from Finding Nemo.