TRADE - Cubbies/A's agree to deal

[Needle Juice]

The  :CHC: and the  :OAK: agree to the following deal:

 :OAK: will receive:

MI Fontenot, Mike, $0.5m (P-2010)
OF Hawpe, Brad, $6m (2011)
P Norris, Bud, $0.5m (P-n/a)

 :CHC: will receive:

MI Drew, Stephen, $5.0m (2010)
P Ray, Chris, $0.5m (2010)
P Hirsh, Jason, $0.5m (2010)

I believe that Drew is breaking out this year, but I do not know if I will resign him because his resign value depends on this year.  Ray is beginning to throw well and Hirsh is an injury away from being a SP with the Yanks. 

I like Hawpe, even when he is slumping, he is an OBP machine.  The crowded situation in Col is somewhat concerning, but I could easily see him begin to transition to 1B or a trade for some SP to free up the playing time.  Norris is young and has a good K/9, he will be insurance for my rotation.  Fontenot kills righties and he will serve as a bench player.

Good deal for both, Cubs to agree.

[bridgestone]

The  :CHC: and the  :OAK: agree to the following deal:

 :OAK: will receive:

MI Fontenot, Mike, $0.5m (P-2010)
OF Hawpe, Brad, $6m (2011)
P Norris, Bud, $0.5m (P-n/a)

 :CHC: will receive:

MI Drew, Stephen, $5.0m (2010)
P Ray, Chris, $0.5m (2010)
P Hirsh, Jason, $0.5m (2010)

Cubs agree.  The OF market will have much more available than MI this winter, so I like the idea of bringing in someone who is younger at a tougher position to fill.  Hirsch joins the many possible Cubs starters and Ray is just a temporary assignment in Chicago.

Fontenot, it was nice knowing you.  You have been the longest-service major league Cub since I took over this team.  I hope you do well in Oakland.  You may have a shot at the playoffs this year with that talented team.

The Cubs are now in negotiations with Stephen Drew at a contract extension.

[BHows]

Basically a Drew for Hawpe deal which is equitable considering each team's needs. Approved

[guak2005]

makes sense for both teams  :iatp:

[Colby]

:OAK: will receive:
MI Fontenot, Mike, $0.5m (P-2010)
OF Hawpe, Brad, $6m (2011)
P Norris, Bud, $0.5m (P-n/a)

 :CHC: will receive:
MI Drew, Stephen, $5.0m (2010)
P Ray, Chris, $0.5m (2010)
P Hirsh, Jason, $0.5m (2010)

 :judge: