The Detroit Tigers have acquired Jhonny Peralta (and cash) from the Cleveland Indians for minor league pitcher Giovanni Soto, according to the team’s official Twitter feed.
Detroit Tigers
They have been beaten up with injuries recently, especially on the infield, with both Brandon Inge and Carlos Guillen being placed on the DL.
But how big of an upgrade is Peralta over Scott Sizemore? Certainly enough to justify the move, though Sizemore could still have value (that’s a story for another day).
Peralta has struggled this season, hitting .246 with 7 HR, 43 RBI, and 37 R. He is carrying a career worst BABIP at .284, so there certainly is potential upside there.
He is just a career .264 hitter, so it’s not like he will take a huge step forward, but he certainly could be usable.
The power has seemingly disappeared the past two seasons, with 18 HR total. He’s only two years removed from a 23 HR season and has enjoyed three 20+ HR years.
The fly balls are a pitiful 33.9% in 2010, compared to a career mark of 45.5%. At 28-years-old, it’s impossible to think that he simply just lost his power.
He does have 23 doubles, so it is possible that a change of scenery helps.
Don’t underestimate the idea of moving from a losing environment to a pennant race, either. While that is not the sole reason for his struggles, it certainly wouldn’t be a surprise to see him improve his play significantly.
For now, he will assume third base duties, with Inge out for around a month. Once Inge returns, if Peralta is hitting, he is not going to be put on the bench.
It’s possible that he sees time at DH, with Johnny Damon playing the outfield. Also, he could easily see time at shortstop, where Danny Worth and Ramon Santiago are currently playing.
The bottom line is that 3B is a shallow position and there is some upside in Peralta. I wouldn’t do anything drastic to get him, but if you have an expendable piece on your bench and need help at third, he’s certainly worth the flier.
Cleveland Indians
Soto is just 19-years-old and pitching at Single-A. In 16 starts, he’s gone 6-6 with a 2.61 ERA and 76 Ks over 82.2 innings. Clearly, the lefty has some potential, currently second in the Midwest League in ERA, but he is a long way from making an impact.
What are your thoughts on the deal? Could Peralta be usable?
Keep checking www.rotoprofessor.com for all the fantasy fallout from the deadline deals!
Make sure to check out our other trade analyses:
- Yunel Escobar for Alex Gonzalez
- Alberto Callaspo traded to the Angels
- Dan Haren traded to the Angels
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