Blockbuster Trade with MLB Padres
Padres receive Soto, Bell, from Nationals for LHP Gore, high-graded prospects.
The curtains finally closed on trade rumors for ‘The Chosen Juan,’ twenty-three-year-old, World Series winning phenomenon, Juan Soto. Soto’s destiny now leads him to the San Diego Padres as NBC reporter, Jon Morosi tweeted the deal’s confirmation earlier today (Aug. 2nd).
Both Clubs agreed to a trade that sends Washington Nationals outfielder Juan Soto and first baseman Josh Bell to the San Diego Padres in return left-handed pitcher Mackenzie Gore, shortstop C.J. Abrams, outfielder James Wood, outfielder Robert Hassell III, and right-handed pitcher Jarlin Susana.
Although the Padres give away many high-potential, young core talent, the return is worth the price. Soto’s rise as a newcomer in 2019 leading the Nationals to a World Series title along with their lethal pitching staff at just twenty-years-old and continuing to produce monster numbers since, proves the value he carries. Also Read:
San Diego’s already potent offense with All-Star third baseman Manny Machado and young All-Star, power hitting talent, Fernando Tatis returning to the club this weekend against the Los Angeles Dodgers, are about to become even more dangerous. Also Read: Update on MLB trade deadline.
Not only is San Diego receiving a World Series experienced, Hall of Fame caliber, player in Soto for the next three seasons they also bring in elite hitting Designated Hitter, Josh Bell. Bell’s ability to get on base and score runs will also pack an extra punch in this unbelievably talented lineup the Padres have constructed to fortify their World Series chances.
According to BaseballReference.com, Bell’s .301 batting average, 113 hits, 57 RBIs, 24 doubles and three triples this season with the Nationals surpass all the same statistical categories as Soto. With Soto being the flashy name in this deal, Bell’s impressive stat line flies under the radar.
General Manager of the Padres, A.J. Preller, is reluctant to make this move after missing out on the blockbuster trade that sent future Hall of Fame pitcher Max Scherzer and All-Star shortstop Trea Turner from Washington to Los Angeles at last season’s trade deadline. Follow SpotLife ASIA for the latest news and updates.
Disappointment in D.C. is expected for Nationals fans after this news of losing two marquee players, but the future of the franchise is not far away. San Diego’s bid for Soto and Bell hands over a prominent group of potential future All-Stars with multiple first round draft picks on their way to Washington.
Both Padres and Nationals walk away with what they wanted. San Diego now puts themselves in position with the New York Mets, Atlanta Braves and L.A. Dodgers to win it all and Washington’s new bucket of prospects will help them rebuild.
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