Omaha makes a big move by trading for Harlan Moore(36.9)

[niles08]

Just as it seemed the shortstop debate was over in Omaha with Jimmy Starks Jr. playing okay there, Omaha has re-opened the can of worms by trading for Harlan Moore from Valencia.

Moore, who is currently on the disabled list with a broken finger, should be returning in the next week or so and when he does, one would assume, will take over shortstop duties for the Hawks, moving Jimmy Starks Jr back out to center field.

Moore has a .305 batting average this season, just a few ticks below his career line of .316. He does have the ability to opt out of his contract at the end of the season, but If he opts in, will be paid $9,500,000 next year before Omaha will hold an option of their own on the final year of his contract.

Heading to Valencia is a duo of pitchers along with 2nd round draft pick Julio Guerra (8/8/8/5/6 Talents).

The 18 year old Guerra was just taken in the 2nd round this past year by Omaha and projects to be an everyday player in the league as he matures. He should bring an above average bat to the plate although defense will be questionable at best.

Dusty Garcia (8/5/7 Talents) is a 20 year old in AA, who has pitched very well this year with a 3.48 ERA over 170 innings. He was a 3rd round pick in 2034 for the Hawks. His 3.5 WAR is second in the Donaldo League.

The last piece of the trade is 22 year old Simon Bautista (10/4/7 Talents). Bautista is currently pitching in AAA having appeared in 41 games this year. He has a 4.04 ERA with 18 saves and a FIP 11% below the league average.