Sleeper Watch

In the first major trade of what could turn into a very interesting July, second baseman Roberto Alomar has been dealt to the Chicago White Sox for three minor league prospects, 2B-3B Andrew Salvo and pitchers Royce Ring and Edwin Almonte.

Alomar had been batting a disappointing .262 with just two home runs and 22 rbi for the Mets. He has been successful in all six of his steal attempts and has committed six errors in 73 games. The Mets had been shopping him for some time and finally found a suitable trade partner in the White Sox, who haven’t been very happy with the play of D’Angelo Jimenez at second base. With Roberto now joining his brother, catcher Sandy Alomar, Jr., in Chicago, Jimenez may see more time at 3B, but will lose playing time overall.

This acquisition obviously affects the values of several other White Sox. Joe Crede’s playing time might go down slightly if Jimenez does fill in at the hot corner at times, but this shouldn’t be much to worry about. Willie Harris, Joe Borchard and Aaron Rowand, on the other hand, may all lose significant time as newly acquired Carl Everett settles into center field. Alomar will become the new leadoff hitter in Chicago’s revamped lineup.

For Roberto Alomar, the move back to the American League, where he batted .311 in eleven seasons, might be just the kick start he needed to get his production back up. Leaving Shea, a tough park for hitters, will also help. With second base a tough position to fill in fantasy baseball, he’s worth a look if he happens to be available.

Alomar could once again become a solid starter in AL-only leagues and deeper mixed leagues, so if you happen to own Jeff Kent, who is on the disabled list, or have been getting by with a mediocre 2B, take a chance and grab him while you can.