This winter, both the Yankees and the Red Sox added new center fielders to their respective rosters. Of course, the Yankees traded for Detroit’s Curtis Granderson, who is primarily known for his speed, power, and potential, while the Red Sox inked the accomplished veteran, Mike Cameron, in the hopes that his stellar defensive reputation benefits their ball club (Cameron can still hit, too). With that said, I wonder, who ultimately landed the better center fielder?
For the answer, to WAR we go (WAR totals are from 2006-2009):
One could certainly make the argument that Mike Cameron is actually a more effective player, or at least that he has been the more effective player (consistently) because of his enduring defensive value. Then again, Granderson’s potential, as seen in 2007, is certainly notable. Despite the statistical histories, if I could have either player at the same cost, it is Granderson’s innate ability to develop into something greater than he currently is that seems to trump all.
But, if I were forced to hazard a guess as to who will provide more value, according to WAR, in 2010, Cameron is likely the safer choice, although he could experience a dramatic age-driven regression. On the other hand, Granderson, with his five tools, can easily beat him if he manages a better line against lefties and improves a bit defensively.
Given the elements involved, it is difficult to assess which team obtained the better center fielder. Perhaps if we limit the question to this season — who obtained the better player for 2010 — Cameron could be seen as that guy. However, Granderson has much more promise than his aged Boston counterpart, which is obviously important.
In the end, both players will likely be effective this season (maybe equally so). We might be able to leave it at that.
Photos by the AP
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13 Responses to Who brought in the better center fielder, Boston or NY?
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TIQ IQ
It should also be interesting to see how Cameron does in the American League East… who knows if it will really have an effect but you see Smoltz/Lugo etc going to the NL and magically become better. I wonder if Cameron’s stats will hold up. Very curious about Vasquez as well.
On the other hand, if Cameron does prove to be just as good over the next two years makes you wonder about the logic of trading two pretty good prospects that could have helped control costs into the future. The money going to Granderson over the next two years is just slightly less (2mil or so) than the deal Cameron signed for so if play is about equal you might have wished you didn’t trade away Jackson(possible RF/CF solution for years to come) and Kennedy(pitching depth for this year).
I think the Yankees paid for upside. Granderson had some bad luck last year, and I think he has a good shot to bounceback.
Sure, straight up Granderson has more upside than Cameron. That said, what might the projected upside be for Kennedy (who I think is going to be pretty good) and Jackson (who may be just as good, perhaps in different style of play, than Granderson)?
- Just considering, I’m not sure I wouldn’t do the trade over again.
I was never a big Jackson fan, so I liked the trade, but you make a fair point.
And just on the upside thing, Chone loves Granderson going forward, and hates Cameron. (4.4 to 1.4 WAR). The Fan projection is similar (5.6 to 3.5).
Thanks for the added info Moshe. I’m looking forward to seeing Cameron play. Since I don’t watch the National League I’d be lying if I said I have a feel for his game, especially the defense everyone raves about. Obviously he is a Red Sox so you hope he blows up.
Let me throw a little water on this discussion. Brett Gardner will b the Yankee CENTERFIELDER and Curtis Granderson will be a star in LEFTFIELD. And, Brett Gardner will develope into a star centerfielder.
I’m kinda hoping Cameron declines severely
I’m TOTALLY hoping this.
I like Gardner as well. Last year I preferred him over Melky because of his defense but I’d be very reluctant to call him a star in the making. I just don’t see him hitting enough.
At Cameron’s age, all he has to do is sneeze wrong and he can be on the 60 day DL. Yanks made the right choice, although I wouldn’t have been sad to see him in the outfield w/ Granderson…..
Cameron needs to get a hat that fits.
I would be very surprised if Cameron’s stats are anywhere near Granderson’s.I see the move elevating Granderson’s stats in the Stadium while Cameron’s go down with the switch and his advancing age.