While the 2016 MLB trade deadline didn’t see one blockbuster trade, it marked a new era in the trade market. One where relievers command top dollar, and even a marginally good starter will land a room of solid gold.
After the massive contracts handed out during this year’s NBA free agency period, it looked as if transactions in pro sports would never be the same. Jon Leuer, a career backup stretch-four, received a contract for $41 million over four years from the Detroit Pistons. The Miami Heat, in a panic after Dwyane Wade left for Chicago, re-signed Tyler Johnson for $50 million over four years.
Those big contracts seem ridiculous, but the high asking prices in the NBA have seemingly seeped into MLB, as well.
The New York Yankees received the Chicago Cubs top prospect for the flame-throwing Aroldis Chapman, and later went on to coup two more top prospects from the Cleveland Indians for Andrew Miller.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Pirates flipped the script by selling off Mark Melancon for two mid-level prospects, which is quite contrary to the moves the Yankees made.
One week earlier, the Boston Red Sox sent 18-year-old stud Anderson Espinoza to the San Diego Padres in exchange for Drew Pomeranz, a left-handed starter that has been good for half a season.
On the deadline, the New York Mets made a splash by acquiring the resurgent Jay Bruce. But it remains to be seen if the deal will be worth if after giving up top outfield prospect Brandon Nimmo.
A flurry of other moves were made on the trade deadline, with many teams receiving valuable assets that should help in the short and long term.
Here’s a look at the biggest winners from the 2016 MLB trade deadline.
Next: The Yankees Rebuild