Fantasy Spin: Harden to the Cubbies

As Watson noted earlier, there has been a fairly decent seismic shift in the National League Arms Race, what with the Cubs acquiring Rich Harden only 24 hours after the Brewers picked up CC Sabathia. And just like it affects real baseball, the trade does some things for fantasy owners as well. So, why not look at the four biggest names in the trade?

Rich Harden, SP -- I've said it once, and I'll say it again: sell high on Harden. Billy Beane rarely gets suckered and this deal kind of looks like one of those times, no? Which makes me think "ruh-roh" with regard to Harden's health. Especially when you remember that during his next to last start in an Oakland uni, he was barely topping 90 mph. But his move to one of the most offensively potent teams and a World Series contender should boost his value in theory, making him a prime sell.

Chad Gaudin, RP/SP -- Gaudin pitched very well when he was in the Oakland rotation, but got bumped back to the bullpen. It's assumed he'll do the same in Chicago, but are so confident he can't beat out Jason Marquis for a rotation spot? Because I sure think he can. In terms of available fantasy guys in this deal, he's the one I'm taking a flier on.

Sean Gallagher, SP -- Gallagher has to be the lynchpin for Beane, right? As Peter Gammons said, the Cubs liked -- and were "nearly sold on" -- Gallagher as a starter. But as good as Ryan Dempster has been, they need a true number two and Gallagher's not that. So maybe Beane thinks he's going to be great. Which makes me think he's worth a gamble in deeper fantasy leagues.

Matt Murton, OF -- I've never hated Murton as much as it seems Cubs fans and the organization did. He always seemed like a smart baseball player that had sleeper written all over him. He might not set the world on fire in Oakland, but you gotta think he's gonna play at least (as opposed to Chicago). I'm taking a gamble.