Posted by gregsimon on 1/30/2013 9:04:00 AM (view original):
In most worlds I've played in, trade deadline value is as good as FA signing period value.
I'd understand if it was for a guy in the last year of his contract, who has questionable signability or something, but otherwise why would that be the case in your experience Mike?
First, prying away prospects is virtually impossible. At least those of similar value. IMO, it's not good business to give up a comparable 20 y/o for a 27 y/o.
Second, someone on the edge of the playoff picture isn't going to want to give up his future for an outside shot at making the playoffs.
Third, someone locked into the playoffs tends to believe they're "good enough" and don't want to deal prospects.
The only market is the guy who thinks he has the 2nd/3rd best team and feels a specific player will put him over the top. Unfortunately, a lot of times, this owner has nothing in the minors because he's been playing the high payroll, "let someone else develop players" game.