Aloha means goodbye

Just over 24 hours after the story first broke, Jimmy Rollins is packing his bags. In a deal that comes as no surprise, the clubhouse leader wannabe was dealt to Seattle who was in need of a solid glove with power at the shortstop position. The move was part of a complex 8 player plus 8 pick swap which is sure to affect the 2010 fortunes of both teams.



In the surprising deal, Honolulu sends Placido Polanco, Jimmy Rollins, Aaron Rowand and the 2010 HHA #9, 10, LVI #12 and HHA #13 to the Seattle Pilots. The move solidifies the Pilots defense for 2010 & adds much needed pop. It's no secret that Honolulu has been looking to upgrade the infield defense in spacious Pietruska Park. Double Plays are not only a pitcher's best friend but the GM's too. (If he wants to keep his job.) The Hawaiians receive perennial Gold Glover Orlando Hudson who has shown he can handle a bat quite well. The Pilots also sent shortstop Miguel Tejada, reliever Kevin Gregg, outfielders Gary Matthews and Randy Winn and the Pilots #4, #5, #7 and #8 picks in the 2010 entry draft. Its expected that Tejada will fill the DH role for this team when he is not backing up incumbent Yunel Escobar.

While this deal seems to create a hole in Left Field, the Hot Stove is just heating on the islands and with the warm trade winds blowing more deals are almost certain to follow.