YUMA TIMES: HALLADAY OUT
The Yuma Firebirds have announced a stunning trade that has sent shock waves throughout the local community. Ace hurler Roy Halladay was traded to bitter rival Arizona in exchange for righties Matt Latos, Tommy Hanson, and 7th overall pick in the first round. "We had about twelve and a half million reasons as to why you did this deal," said owner Christopher Melkonian. "Roy is a fabulous pitcher, one of the games best. He helped bring us a pair of titles. Our organization and city is forever grateful. Yet, we were offered two outstanding, young, projectable arms who have already established themselves among the 25 best pitchers in the game. Given there youth, upside, and salary....it was a sweet two for one deal, not to mention, we can add another impact player with that draft pick. It was a no brainier for us." GM Billy Beane was quoted as saying, "We added two youngsters who have already established themselves in the big leagues, and who are only going to get better. We deepen a rotation that is not only one of BARB's best, but probably has the most upside as well. We've cleared up enough cap room to afford some of the future contract extensions of our younger players (such as Braun, Zimmerman, Cain). We love Roy, but we didn't like the dollar amount and age, and as one of my idols Bill Walsh once said...I'd rather trade a great player a year early instead of a year too late."
STRAIGHT UP: PRADO TO BIRDS
In a separate move, the Firebirds acquired INF Martin Prado for Arizona in exchange for OF Adam Jones. "Given the uncertainty of both Robert's health and roster status, we needed an insurance policy, and boy, we got a good one," said owner Chris Melkonian. "Prado is just a pure hitter with good versatility and his glove plays well anywhere. We always liked Adam's potential, but we feel with his inability to control the strike zone, he would never live up to the expectations that we set for him, and he was not a good fit for our line-up." GM Billy Beane added, "We gave up a upside for a finished product....we filled a serious need."
FRANCHISED NO MORE
The Yuma Firebirds shipped off former franchise player pitcher Jake Peavy to the newly christened Central California .45s in exchange catching prospect Travis D'Arnaud and the .45s' 5th round selection. "We cannot express how much we appreciate Jake's work both on and off the field. He represented the franchise well during his time here, and we hope he continues to have success elsewhere," stated owner Chris Melkonian. GM Billy Beane offered his thoughts, "The recent injuries to Peavy were why this deal was done. He has had trouble staying healthy. Some of money spent has been sunk cost. Eventually, you have to cut the ties. Travis is a very well rounded catcher with plenty of upside, and we believe he can develop into a quality catcher, not to mention, we believe strongly in our player development and scouting staff, so draft picks are gold to us." Beane went on to say, "This is a team in transition. Ownership has sent a clear message; we want to have a team that is young, affordable, and deep, and we are almost towards the finish line with that goal." Beane states that he does not anticipate anymore major movements from the club. "We are happy where we are at. We will continue to build of our success, and we will be a major force to be reckon with; now and in the future," said Beane as he parted from journalists.
YUMA TIMES POLL: THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN
The people have spoken. The Firebirds are Arizona's teams. As part of the state census data in Arizona, a whooping 94% of the public considered themselves fans of the Yuma Firebirds. Another 4.5% said they were fans of the well-traveled Arizona Rattlesnakes, and the remaining 1.5% said they were fans of other teams. "Yeah, we are the people's choice. Given our success on the field, plus our philanthropy exploits throughout the state, its a privilege to be considered Arizona's team. Success and loyalty go a long way. Others should take note
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