The Chicago Cubs announce today that they have traded outfielder Tony Campana to the Arizona Diamondbacks for two 17-year old pitchers Erick Leal and Jesus Castillo. Both pitchers are from the Dominican Republic. Campana was designated for assignment on February 10th to make room for outfielder Scott Hairston on the 40-man roster.
Leal went 6-2 with a 2.44 ERA and a 0.99 WHIP in 14 appearances (12 starts). In 70 innings Leal, struck out 70 batters and only walked 12. That’s a great strikeout to walk ratio. Jed Hoyer said Leal will likely start the year in the minors.
Castillo was 2-4 with a 5.40 ERA and a 1.57 WHIP in 14 appearances (8 starts). In 46.2 innings, Castillo struck out 41 and walked 17.
Both pitchers stats don’t look bad, especially Leal but they also didn’t face great competition. Baseball players don’t really face great players at 17.
We don’t know how these pitchers will perform in the minors because their so young, but the Cubs hope for them to be major league pitchers down the road.
The Cubs were lucky to get anything for Campana and I think it’s a great trade for the Cubs. The Cubs were going to lose Campana anyways, so they make a trade instead for high/risk upside pitchers.
Campana was a fan favorite, but he didn’t offer anything to the Cubs. Yes, he has speed but why does that matter if you can’t get on base or bunt? It doesn’t. I like the trade and I wish Campana the best of luck with his new team!
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