Drew Pomeranz for Anderson Espinoza was a No. 1 pitching prospect for an All-Star. A trade consummated between the Red Sox and Padres at the All-Star break in 2016. A risky proposition for the Padres hinging on projected growth. Anything can happen and for Espinoza it has. The diagnosis for the 19-year-old is “Right forearm tightness” and 2017 has been a shutdown season.
The Padres have been exceptionally cautious with Espinoza and it is doubtful he will pitch this season. Espinoza remains the No. 61 ranked prospect on MLB Prospect Watch and number five among San Diego prospects.
The Red Sox received damaged goods with Pomeranz. The Padres were rather secretive regarding health issues and when finally knowledge became available the Red Sox refused to negate the trade. As Pomeranz continued to register one dismal start after another the conclusion was the Red Sox have given away a prize for a broken down arm. Pomeranz finished the second half with a 4.59 ERA.
What a difference a year makes, as Pomeranz has become consistently reliable this season. Pomeranz now has attained double-digit wins and his ERA has shrunk to well under 4.00. So far the deal has been a plus for Boston, but if Espinoza reaches his projected promise that would certainly be altered. If Espinoza eventually becomes a reliable starter then the deal certainly falls into the category of a success for both teams. If this was a “win” situation, then Dave Dombrowski gets the first place prize – so far.
Would I have made the deal? No.