Does trading Harper for Stanton (even straight up) make the team significantly better either next year or in the long run? I just don’t see it, but maybe I’m missing something.
For 2018, assuming both are healthy, how many more wins does Stanton bring you. Last year Stanton had a fWAR of 6.9 and Harper 4.8. And that’s with Harper hurt for a big chunk of time.
And in the future, does it make you significantly better? Remember, the Marlins are going to want significant prospects. And the outfield post 2018 looks pretty good. Obviously Stanton is better than any of those guys, but he costs a lot of money. Money that could be used in other places.
Plus, I think that people who want a Stanton trade expect 2017 production. If he produces at that level for two years he opts out. If he doesn’t he stays and ages in DC, eating up tons of money.
Seriously though, what am I missing?