The power bat of designated hitter Kendrys Morales is on the move once more. On Opening Day eve, the Toronto Blue Jays have agreed to a trade to send the slugger to the Oakland Athletics. In exchange for Morales, the Blue Jays have received minor league infielder Jesus Lopez and international slot money.
A Look at Morales’ Career
Morales, now age 35, is in the final year of a three year $33 million deal and is set to receive $12 million in the 2019 season alone. The Blue Jays are set to send over $10 million to the A’s in the exchange.
Despite a noticeable decline in production from his peak years, Morales was still able to provide some pop within the lineup. After a down year in 2017, Morales posted a bounce-back type season with a slash line of .249/.331/.438 with 471 plate appearances within the 2018 season.
Amid those 471 plate appearances, Morales clobbered 21 home runs, the fifth-best mark of his career. The 35 year old drew more patience at the plate with a career 10.6 percent walk rate. Morales made great strides overall increasing his offensive WAR numbers by nearly ten full points.
What the Athletics Receive in Morales
Despite the overall declining numbers, Morales has still held consistency in the power department. After all, Morales has bested the league average in isolated power each of the past four seasons.
Now in his tenth season at the helm, Morales might have found himself in the right position once more. With Matt Olson potentially sidelined for an extended period of time after undergoing hamate excision surgery on his right hand, Morales could be the plug that the A’s need to sustain a strong presence at first base.
What the Blue Jays Receive
On the other side of the coin, the Blue Jays receive a strong presence in Jesus Lopez who produced a slash line of .239/.293/.402 and ten home runs through 84 games with Class A Beloit. Lopez saw action in the field at second base, shortstop, and third base.
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