Unfortunately, they parted ways with Hector Noesi in the deal as well, and now really only have one legitimate pitching prospect in Banuelos.
I have long been under the impression that if Montero couldn't catch or play third base, he was of no use to the Yankees given that a rotation of older players will need the DH spot in 2012 and beyond. Now, the Yanks have read my plea and answered it.
However, Noesi was the future of the rotation. With "Always Junk" Burnout (AJ Burnett) now essentially a lock for the fifth starter position, it will be Phil Hughes and Freddy Garcia who will "duke it out" in spring training to capture the fifth spot in the Yankees rotation.
This move works out well for both teams and IF Pineda can establish himself as a quality starter, (meaning anywhere from third to fifth), this deal was a GRAND SLAM for the Yankees.
Thank you, Mr. Cashman, for pulling off an amazing feat. Pineda can become a solid starter in New York backed with MUCH better offense and therefore, better run support. I wish Jesus Montero well in Seattle and hope that his career will get off to a good start as a designated hitter there instead.
But my final point is this...
If (& Only If) Montero doesn't pan out, and cannot do anything other than hit, the Mariners might have their hands full with both him and a 38-year-old Ichiro Suzuki vying for time as the designated hitter.
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