ASTROS ADD LIRIANO FOR BULLPEN HELP
The Houston Astros acquired pitcher Francisco Liriano from the Toronto Blue Jays for outfielders Nori Aoki and Teoscar Hernandez.
What does it give the Houston Astros
The Astros needed a left-handed reliever to complement their strong right-handers in their bullpen, and they decided to pluck a starter from Toronto's rotation to plug the hole. Liriano has struggled with both hits and walks this season, but Houston is confident a switch to the bullpen will turn Liriano's fortunes around. The 'Stros felt comfortable dealing both veteran Aoki and youngster Hernandez because of their outfield depth.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
For the Blue Jays, this swap was about landing a decent outfield prospect and shedding salary. Hernandez may even help replace Jose Bautista in right field next year, since the latter can become a free agent this winter. Toronto also agreed to accept veteran Japanese outfielder Nori Aoki as part of the package. Now 35 years of age, Aoki was added merely to help off-set some of the salary that went to Houston in the form of Liriano.
Fantasy impact
Hernandez's fantasy stock should improve with the move to Toronto, as his chances of playing every day in 2018 have greatly improved with the move from Houston to Toronto. Aoki will merely play out the stretch with the Jays, so his fantasy impact is nearly negligible. As for Liriano, he loses a lot of long-term value by moving from Toronto's rotation to the bullpen in Houston but it could actually help his fantasy stock significantly. He could get his fair share of holds as a possible setup man for the 'Stros.
