SF Giants: Analyzing Mike Yastrzemski trade value and return
By Allen Settle
Why a trade makes sense for the SF Giants
At face value, trading Yastrzemski seems almost blasphemous. Why would a rebuilding franchise like the Giants even consider parting ways with the hottest hitter in baseball? This is a fair question.
There are two reasons to consider a trade — his age and his value.
The Age
Contrary to popular belief, Yaz is not a typical prospect. His glow up is taking place much later than the normal timeline for star players.
Yastrzemski is about to enter his 30s despite making his major league debut just last year and receiving regular playing time in 2020.
Realistically, the Giants are still at least two to three seasons away from establishing themselves as serious contenders again — and that’s a best-case scenario. The team’s farm system was recently ranked 10th best in baseball by MLB.com.
They also have the benefit of playing in a major market. This has allowed them to make serious bids st stars like Bryce Harper and Nicholas Castellanos in recent offseasons. It’s just a matter of time before they land a big fish.
However, if it does indeed take the team a few more years to complete their rebuild, they will be looking at a version of Yastrzemski who is nearing his mid-30s.
This could still be a very good player. But he will potentially be leaving his prime at the time when the rest of the team is entering theirs.
The Value
Additionally, it’s fair to say that Yastrzemski’s value is at an all-time high. His .319 average, six home runs, 19 RBI, 30 hits and 20 walks (in just 26 games) are elite numbers. He is also playing proficient defense at a vital center field position.
The trade market, like the year as a whole, will be strange in 2020. There is a possibility that teams may be nervous about trading valuable pieces since there is a risk that the season could shut down at any point.
However, will also likely be contending teams looking to make a serious run at an unprecedented World Series.
Whether a move comes at the trade deadline or during the offseason, it appears as though San Francisco could land premium value.