Palms, Phillies execute blockbuster trade

The Palms have addressed a looming need for a catcher by trading away one of the faces of the organization over the past two years. 2nd baseman Jaspero Gonzalez who was a stalwart at the position for several sesonse, as well as an anchor in the batting lineup has given no indication that he was willing to sign an extension, so Miami decided to maximize his value, dealing him to Philadelphia. Another issue facing the team this year will be the pending departure of Jose Molina and Omir Santos, a powerhouse catching duo. As part of a package that included cash and a pair of low level minor leaguers, the Palms acquired Carlos Ruiz, who now projects as the Miami starter at catcher and ends the Santos era in Miami. The Palms will be getting a high average hitter coming off a career year, in which he hit .325 with 16 home runs. He is getting older, turning 33 this past season, which depressed his value somewhat, but for the next season or two, he will be useful in the Palms' lineup. The Phillies will be getting a younger, more powerful and more consistent hitter. With Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins already on the roster, Gonzalez projects to play third or right field in Philadelphia, but more importantly adds another threat to what had been a flagging offense through much of last year.

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