The 4th Out: Is Adrian Gonzalez worth it? – by Nick Hamilton

After a horrible series against the rival San Francisco Giants, the Los Angeles Dodgers ownership were determined to make a big move.
In a blockbuster trade with the Boston Red Sox, who would send Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford, Josh Beckett and Nick Punto to the Dodgers, yet a few details have to be worked out still.

The Red Sox would receive Rubby De La Rosa who happens to be the main piece of the deal, would go to Boston along with first baseman James Loney, and prospect pitcher Allen Webster, Ivan De Jesus, and Jerry Sands. The Dodgers have until Sunday at 1:30 PM EST/ 10:30 AM EST to get this expensive deal complete.

Adrian Gonzalez has 6 years with $127 million left after this year, Carl Crawford has 5 years $102.5 million left, Josh Beckett 2 years left with $31.5 million, and Nick Punto has 1 year left with $1.5million.

How much is left is in the bank to still acquire much needed big name free agents such as pitcher Cliff Lee, slugger Josh Hamilton to Los Angeles? With a ridiculous contract like Carl Crawford’s, the Dodgers will be stuck with this bum similar to how the Los Angeles Angels are still stuck with the inconsistent Vernon Wells. Beckett with two years left could be traded at some point, and would or could be a good bargaining chip along with Punto.

Gonzalez’ impact on the Dodgers, is a major significant upgrade and much needed at first base. Beckett for now would take garbage pitcher Joe Blanton‘s place in the rotation.

After having some time to review this deal I’d have to say this could be just the right move for the Dodgers. Make no mistake about it, with big time free agents and trade options out there for next season, other teams will be upgrading. And in the city of Los Angeles, stars attract fans along with winning that keeps them coming back for more and getting Dodger blue fever.

If the Dodgers truly are serious about making Los Angeles a Dodger town again, this is a step in the right direction. Now all they have to do is bring a championship to Dodger Stadium, and it wouldn’t hurt to have Lee, Hamilton, or even Felix Hernandez possibly in the mix as the clock continues to tick.