DODGERS GET DARVISH IN BLOCKBUSTER MOVE
The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired pitcher Yu Darvish from the Texas Rangers for infielder/outfielder Willie Calhoun, pitcher A.J. Alexy and infielder Brendon Davis.
What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
In Darvish, the Dodgers get an elite strikeout pitcher with a bit of postseason experience who should make a major impact down the stretch. He has ace stuff but will slide into the No. 2 slot behind Clayton Kershaw once the latter recovers from recent back issues. A free agent this winter, Darvish might enjoy pitching at Chvez Ravine enough to consider re-signing with Los Angeles in the off-season. This deal came right down to the wire, and LA now looks poised for playoff success.
What does it give the Texas Rangers
The key to this deal will likely be Calhoun, an excellent offensive threat whose natural position is second base. With Rougned Odor signed long term, Calhoun could move to the outfield in order to be fast-tracked to MLB. Alexy is a long-term pitching prospect with great strikeout ability. However, he will need several more seasons of development before reaching the bigs. As for Davis, he has talent as a lanky shortstop. That said, the 19-year-old needs to put it all together.
Fantasy impact
Darvish's short-term fantasy stock skyrockets with the move to Chavez Ravine and the first-place Dodgers. Calhoun's stock could also soar as long as the Rangers find a place for him to play. Both Alexy and Davis have long-range upside but also have a long way to go before they reach the fantasy radar screen.
