Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has reported via Twitter that the Milwaukee Brewers are in the process of completing a trade for RHP Shaun Marcum, 28, of the Toronto Blue Jays. It appears to be a done deal with only the formalities and paperwork remaining.
A Canadian source has confirmed to Haudricourt that Milwaukee Brewers’ top prospect and 2008 First Round pick 2B Brett Lawrie will be going to the Blue Jays in the deal. Originally it was believed the Jays would be getting pitching prospects in return.
Obtaining Lawrie is a no-brainer for Toronto, as Lawrie is Canadian native born in Langley, British Columbia. He also played for the 2008 Canadian Junior National Team, as well as their 2008 Olympic squad. He has steadily moved up the ladder in the Brewers’ minor league system.
Marcum has proven to be an effective starting pitcher for the Jays and is a solid addition to the middle of the rotation. However, he is not a top of the rotation difference-maker. He does do something many of the Brewers’ starters have struggled with in recent memory.
He gets hitters out.
I am a bit stunned to see Lawrie involved in a trade for Marcum. I would think that, for the organization’s top prospect, Doug Melvin could have a aimed a bit higher. I like Marcum, but he’s a number three starter in my opinion. I just hope Melvin didn’t give up any other high level prospects in the deal.
This probably means a contract extension for 2B Rickie Weeks isn’t far off.
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