Lackey over Halladay
November 18, 2009, 9:15 pm by iYankees · 4 Comments
No one can rule out the Yankees acquiring Roy Halladay. He’s clearly available, and the Yankees have already been connected to him. Given the team’s past behavior, though, I doubt they get too far in negotiations with the Blue Jays. They seem more apt to make a deal for John Lackey, who will just cost money, or to take a chance on a high upside player like Ben Sheets. That’s the way Brian Cashman has operated, and unless something drastic changes in the Halladay situation, I think he’ll pitch 2010 elsewhere.
I think Joe makes a good point with regards to Halladay and Lackey. Hypothetically, if the Yankees were open to trading for Halladay and signing him to an extension, wouldn’t it make more sense for them to just sign John Lackey over the winter? As Joe reminds us, Lackey will only cost the team money rather than money and prospects. Halladay is a better pitcher, but that certainly doesn’t mean Lackey can’t offer quality innings, as well. You won’t get nine complete games from Lackey or an ERA under 3.00, however, he has been one of the most effective pitchers in baseball since 2005. Plus, a free agent deal for Lackey would probably cost less (financially) than an extension for Halladay, who is slightly older.
It’s definitely something to think about.
Photos by Getty Images
