RAYS FINALLY DEAL HUFF TO HOUSTON
The Houston Astros acquired infielder Aubrey Huff and cash from the Tampa Bay Devil Rays for pitcher Mitch Talbot and infielder Ben Zobrist.
What does it give the Houston Astros
Having already boosted their pitching staff with Roger Clemens, the Astros have now made a serious move to push into real contention by landing Huff to boost their offense. With Jason Lane surprisingly not getting the job done in right field, the versatile Huff can replace him out there. Of course, the newcomer can also be used at either infield corner. He's a proven .300/30/100 man who had his struggles earlier this year but has returned to form and could be a real boost to the Astros as they try to surge in the second half like they did last year.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Rays
It had been rumored for at least a year, but the Rays finally dealt Huff and they probably did it at the right time, as he'll be a free agent at the end of the year and they have plenty of young sluggers. But did they make the right deal? Time will tell, but neither Talbot nor Zobrist are top prospects, however they do have potential. Talbot is a lanky, 22-year-old righty who has done well as a Double-A starter this year. While he doesn't have a blazing fastball, he does have a strong change-up and a good idea of what he's doing on the mound. Zobrist is a 25-year-old, switch-hitting shortstop who may be viewed as something of a backup plan in case B.J. Upton can't step up to the majors and play solid defense. He's got a steady, .300-hitting bat, good plate discipline and decent speed, but not much power. Some see him as a future utility man in the majors.
Fantasy impact
