Being a buyer at the MLB trade deadline is always a risk. Typically, the buyer gives up several players to get a valuable one or more in return, not knowing exactly how successful that trade will be. The 2023 MLB trade deadline is today, and a fair assessment of the trades completed at the deadline won’t be able to be truly evaluated for a while. A year after the 2022 MLB trade deadline, the evaluation of these trades can be fairly assessed. As always, there were winners and losers at the deadline. Here are the winners and successful 2022 deadline deals.
Successful 2022 MLB Trade Deadline Deals
Phillies Acquire RHP David Robertson From Cubs for RHP Ben Brown
The Philadelphia Phillies made a run for it at the deadline, and they never looked back. Although they acquired Noah Syndergaard at the deadline, David Robertson was probably the most impactful.
After the deadline, Robertson earned six saves and had a 2.50 ERA. He got the crucial save in a one-run contest in the first game of the World Series. He also earned a win in the Wildcard series. Robertson struggled slightly in the NLCS, allowing one run and four hits in 2 2/3 innings of work. However, he posted a 0.00 ERA through the Wildcard and World Series and did not pitch in the NLDS.
Although the Phillies did not win it all, an effective bullpen pitcher is needed to be competitive. Robertson went on to sign with the New York Mets, but likely the Phillies were happy with their rental purchase.
Mariners Acquire Luis Castillo From Reds for Four Prospects
The Seattle Mariners were in a position to be buyers to try and make their first postseason since 2001, and they went for Luis Castillo from the Cincinnati Reds. Pitching comes at a high price at the deadline, so giving up four prospects from a ball club that values their development was a lot.
After the deadline, the right-handed pitcher posted a 4-2 record with a 3.17 ERA. In the postseason, he won his start against the Toronto Blue Jays in one of the AL Wild Card series. He did not give up a run in 7 1/3 innings of work, yet he did not fair as well in the ALDS. In one start, he allowed three runs on five hits, two of them being home runs. He still kept his team in it and pitched seven innings.
For the Mariners, this trade was worth it. A successful 2022 deadline deal, among other moves. They solidified their pitching staff. Castillo helped them get to their first postseason appearance in 21 years. And even better, Castillo has continued to be great. He was an All-Star for the Mariners this season.
Astros Acquire Christian Vázquez From Red Sox for Valdez, Wilyer
Lastly, the 2022 World Series champions. The Houston Astros had a dynamic lineup already at the deadline but were missing hitting contributions from their catchers. Christian Vázquez was hitting .282 with 83 hits with the Boston Red Sox when he was dealt, which was a significant upgrade. The Astros gave away their number 28 and 29 prospects for Vázquez. Time will only tell if these prospects turn out to be stars.
Vázquez did not see his usual production on his new team and division. After the deadline, he hit .250 with only 26 hits. So why was this trade a success?
He was consistent in the postseason. After a poor first series, he had a slash line of .333/.500/.333 in the ALCS and .286/.375/.286 in the World Series. Ultimately, it was not about what he did in August and September but what he accomplished in October. The Astros needed a catcher who could hit, and they received just that when they needed it the most. Vázquez did not re-sign with the Astros and instead went to the Minnesota Twins. The Astros gave up two prospects for a rental, but it no doubt helped win them a World Series title.
Here Comes the 2023 MLB Trade Deadline
There have been several impactful moves already made. But who will prevail this time next year? There were very successful 2022 deadline deals, but what trades will earn the same praise this year? We will have to wait to find out. For now, enjoy the chaos of the craziest day in baseball.
Photo Credit: © Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports
Players mentioned:
David Robertson, Ben Brown, Noah Syndergaard, Luis Castillo, Christian Vázquez
