His Greinke and Butler for my Kershaw and Votto? WHIR

[The Artful Dodger]

It's a lot closer than what others have made this deal out to be. Greinke figures to be better than Kershaw in innings and K/BB rate.

Despite that, I'd roll with this deal, only because Votto is a more sure thing than Butler is and value-wise, it's a pretty even trade. Butler hit 21 HR and a boatload of doubles, but he also had a ton of PA to do it in. Not doubting Butler's power, per se, as I do believe he has 25 HR pop, even 30 HR potential. Votto has the park and the lineup in his favor to hit .310, 30 HR, and 100 RBI. If Kershaw lowers his walk rate (and thus increasing his IP count), he'll take a step ahead. FWIW, Kershaw probably won't be tethered to the IP limit (I'm saying it loosely though) as he did last season.

So, are you saying take the deal or don't take the deal? Sorry, I was a bit confused by your response.

Yes to the deal.

[NickC19]

Thanks for the reply on mine.

This one is close for me. I think i'd probably lean towards getting the Greinke and Butler side of the deal though. Yeah Kershaw could end up being a cy young winner, but Greinke proved last year he's already there. He's clear cut the better pitcher right now. I'd give Votto the advantage over Butler but Butler's a couple year's younger and could definitely end up being a stud 1b. I dont necessarily think there's a huge gap between him and Votto.

[Eighty-Five]

I agree with sticking with what you have.

Granted, having the two best Kansas City Royals may give you a sense of accomplishment, but I don't know if that's something you should strive for. Trust me, I live in KC.

Kershaw's going to close the gap between him and Grienke a lot this year.