The Rays agree to this trade.
We understand that Ubaldo has been underperforming and Street is an extreme injury risk. The total salaries for the players that we are taking on may actually surpass their aggregate value, but the deal makes sense from my perspective for a few reasons. First, I believe that bidding on players in the last round may be out of control when owners with extra cash start making short term bids. Second, I prefer to keep my RP's on short-term contracts because of the volatility at the position.
We are losing a great prospect in Crosby, a good prospect in Barnese, a 4OF, and a borderline RP. However, for this season we will have one more #3 caliber SP, a bonafide closer (when healthy), and also Hammel. Ubaldo's output could vary wildly depending on his velocity this year, Street could be a mid-range closer, and Hammel should probably quit baseball and take up indoor archery or synchronized swimming.
In short, we are taking on $16M in salary and giving up some long-term talent in order to prepare our organization to win this year. Colorado frees up some cap for their new signings and builds their minor league system.
Thanks to the Rockies for a great trade discussion.