So a ton is being written about how great it is that Javier Vasquez has returned for the Yankees, but not as much has been written, at least on a national scale about what the Braves are getting.  The Braves really wanted to get rid of Derek Lowe, whom they signed just last year to a crazy large contract. Since they couldn’t find a taker for that 3-year deal, they moved another expensive pitcher. The Atlanta Journal Constitution is putting this among Frank Wren’s worst moves.

Talking Chop, a Braves centered blog wrote a post isn’t happy either.  Christian Boone writes about how the Braves essentially traded a 15-game winner for 13 home runs and 7 more RBI’s than the Braves Garrett Anderson did last year.

A couple of things all the naysayers are writing are very short-sighted.  First, Melky’s defense is better than Garrett Anderson’s by a long-shot.  May not be better than a healthy Ryan Church, but still its better than the one who roamed the outfield last year.  Cabrera also batted 8th, which even in the Yankee line-up does not always produce the best RBI opportunities.

Second, Javier Vasquez won 15-games in the NL East.  To a team in the AL East they have to expect he may only win 10, thus making his value fall a bit.  Vasquez also had a lousy second half.  As I wrote yesterday though, the Yankees only need him for a half a season most likely.

Lastly, the Braves also acquired a fantastic low-level pitcher.  Now of course a lot can happen that will prevent that kid from ever reaching Turner Field, but this could be a trade that helps for the short-term, by freeing up $7 million in payroll for the Braves while filling a positional hole, but also will help the team in the future if this kid makes it to the majors.  What’s that old adage?  Never judge a trade on the day its made.

Melky and McLouth should be perfect compliments to each other.  And Braves fans should love that…even if they don’t love it today.