Seattle Mariners: Trading for Joc Pederson from L.A. – 3 scenarios
By Ed Stein
Jason Reed – L.A. Sports Hub, Site Expert
“If I was the Dodgers and the Mariners offered to take all of Kemp’s money on the last year of his deal and got Pederson as well I would take it. I would legit send Pederson and Kemp for a player to be named later. It opens up money for us for Kershaw or even to chase the big dogs this winter.”
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I really liked this idea, it works on so many levels. Matt Kemp makes a ton of money next year, $21.5M, but consider it will take at least $14M per year for two to three years if the M’s resign Cruz. Kemp’s contract ends after 2019, so the total liability for Seattle is less. Last year Kemp hit .290 with 21 homers and 85 RBI.
How it impacts the Seattle Mariners
In terms of this season’s payroll, the Mariners would probably need to trade reliever Juan Nicasio and his $9M salary. GM Jerry Dipoto could either send him to the Dodgers in this deal or find another trade partner for him. In the current era of seven-man bullpens, it shouldn’t be too hard. As a matter of fact, they could get a very good prospect for him.
As far as the lineup goes, Kemp would play left field and spend some time at DH when Cano gets a day off. Heredia is an ideal defensive replacement for Kemp in left for the late innings.
This would be the likely batting order:
1- Pederson (CF) 2-Segura (SS), 3-Haniger (RF), 4-Robinson Cano (DH), 5-Kemp (LF), 6-Seager (3B), 7-Healy (1B), 8-Zunino (C, 9-Gordon (2B).
There are no free agent signings in this one because the money Seattle would have spent goes to Kemp.
Tell us on social media who you think the Mariners should trade for.