Yes, Torres was 1-2 years away from the MLB at the time of that trade, exactly what I have been saying. It is rare for a contender to give up even one prospect that is considered ready to help that year, let along multiples. You are usually going deeper into the system, getting younger prospects with high ceilings in multiples.
Heck, just look at the Chris Sale trade last year. This was not an in season trade, but I also look at Sale as just as valuable as DeGrom. The White Sox got Moncada back who was not quite ready for the MLB and is still learning now. They also got huge ceiling arm in Kopech that was a minimum 1-2 years away and very high ceiling OF is Basabe that was a minimum 2-3 years away and potential high ceiling pitcher V. Diaz that has not pitched this year due to arm issues.
How about during the season? Quintana to the Cubs last year is a pretty fair comparison. DeGrom may have a little more value, but on the other hand, Jose being a stud LHP increases his value a bit. Nonetheless.... Eloy Jimenez and OF with Monster potential that was a minimum of a year away, D. Cease, young very high ceiling pitcher at least 2 years away and probably 3, Matt Rose a big young 1B with a big bat, but needing lots of work, yet if he gets it, could be a monster and Bryan Flete whom at best is a future UT IF. On this one, if Eloy and Cease come anywhere close to their potential, then the Sox had a very successful trade and if they exceed and/or Rose develops, it becomes a huge win for them.
"Always look on the bright side of life!"
Eric Idle
