The gist of this trade is clear.  With the recent news that Yankees OF Xavier Nady will be out for the season, New York was looking for a utility guy to spell Nick Swisher in right field occasionally.  On the Pirates side of things, they’re as usual, completely out of the playoff picture, getting anything for three months of Alex Rodriguez Eric Hinske,  is a gain.

Trade Grades:

Yankees-B+

Pirates-A-

2. Nationals trade OF Lastings Milledge, and P Joel Hanrahan to the Pirates, for OF Nyjer Morgan, and P Sean Burnett

I needed an excuse to unload on the Nationals, and here it is, just dropping into my lap.  Why do you trade a top outfield prospect, and a okay relief pitcher, for a outfielder having a freak career year, and a mediocre pitcher!!!  Horrible move for the Nats, adding another poor arm to their bullpen mess.  Congratulations Neal Huntington!  You did something right!  Perfect time to sell high.

Trade Grades:

Nationals-D

Pirates-A