(Guest blogger TD — thanks, bud! — covered this transaction while I cavorted about the Pacific and was similarly unimpressed.)

I don’t really see how the Angels were even players here given that they threw $50 million at Gary Matthews Jr. last winter to play Hunter’s position. Matthews had a nice little Damion Easley type season, which isn’t bad, but which also isn’t worth $10 million a year.

Presumably Hunter’s presence pushes Matthews to a corner outfield spot, reducing the latter’s value even further. I guess the good news, if you’re an Angels fan, is that the franchise has plenty of dough and can afford to be a little careless at times. Best hope it doesn’t happen too often, though.

Post from: Knuckle Curve

You know the drill by now. The question before the court is, Who would get your vote for NL Rookie of the Year and why?

In my mind, this is a two-man race between Milwaukee “third baseman” Ryan Braun and Colorado shortstop Troy Tulowitzki. Guys like Hunter Pence and Josh Hamilton would have merited serious consideration had they remained healthy all season. Actually, you could make a strong case for Pence anyway.

Similarly, right-handers Yovani Gallardo and Tim Lincecum might have been part of the conversation if they’d been called up a little sooner. Micah Owings? The crazy thing about him is that he adds value as a pitcher and as a hitter.

And then there’s Owings’ teammate, Chris Young. He’ll get some consideration for the 32 homers and 27 stolen bases — very sexy. Young might have as promising a future as anyone among the current crop of rookies, but that .295 OBP is tough to ignore.

So. I ask again: Who do you like, and why?

Post from: Knuckle Curve