Read Sports Geek’s and Loyal Homer’s arguments and find out who they believe the best player available at the trading deadline is.
To all the buyers in the MLB Trade market, look no further than Jermaine Dye. That is, of course, unless you don’t want to contend for a strong post-season run.
Why Jermaine Dye? Well, the first reason is entirely selfish… as a Cleveland Indians fan I would LOVE to see him get FAR away from the American League Central. I’m tired of watching him kill the ball every time he’s at the plate!
The second, less selfish reason is that he is the single best hitting talent on the block. He will bring you veteran leadership in the locker room and an outstanding performance on the field.
After failing to deal for Jake Peavy earlier this season, it was believed that the White Sox would consider dealing Dye. His contract, which is due to expire after this season, includes a $12 million option for the 2010 season. Considering the impact that his bat brings to any lineup, my expectation is that teams will be (or at least SHOULD be) on their hands and knees BEGGING to sign this very talented right-fielder. All appearances now are that Chicago does not intend on keeping him.
Consider that though he’s a 35-year-old player, he continues to hit like one of the best among the White Sox organization and in the entire American League. So far in 2009, Dye is batting .291 with 18 home-runs, and 46 RBI. He also is currently among the top-10 in HRs, slugging percentage (.558), and his On-base + Slugging percentage (OPS) sits impressively at .918. Not bad for a 35-year-old, huh?
Dye is making a strong case for himself as the trade deadline draws nearer, having recently put on a hitting clinic that surely has upped his value. In his last 10 games, he has hit 17 for 38 (a .447 average), including five doubles, three home-runs, nine RBI while scoring seven runs on his own.
Last year Dye hit for a team best .292 batting average and scored a team best 96 runs. His 34 home-runs, 172 hits, and 96 RBI were all second-best for the White Sox.
Dye also earned a Gold Glove winner when he played for the Royals in 2000, and won the Silver Slugger award (2006) for being the best offensive player at his position with the White Sox. With all those statistics and accolades, he also won a World Series title in 2005 where he was named the World Series MVP.
He brings depth and experience that would be valuable to any organization and his batting ability is among the best in the league today, having hit for more home-runs AND RBI than any other AL Outfielder since 2005.
Having been recognized both offensively and defensively as being the best at his position, Jermaine Dye would be a very strong addition to any starting lineup. His resume speaks for itself, and I fully expect that the organization that is wise (and lucky) enough to sign him will enjoy the thrill of playing some October ball!
I see what you did there. Nice.
http://panthersfanatic.net/
What did we do that’s so nice???
Yes but big investment for 35 year old!
Dye’s number wouldn’t seem to indicate he’s over the hill, though. Don’t you think he is a wise short term investment?
I actually think he’s worth a shot. I wouldn’t mind seeing the Braves get him if they decide to go in a different direction in right field. With the White Sox in contention though, I don’t know if he’s available.