Bagwell, Kim key 7-player deal

[Marc]

The Naturals and Mavericks have swapped each of their first league draft picks in a seven-player deal, which involved a top-five pick in each of the last three drafts. The Naturals traded Jeff Bagwell, Johnny Damon and Johan Santana to the Mavericks for Byung-Hyun Kim, Larry Walker, Wade Miller and Joe Crede. Bagwell was the Naturals' first pick in their league draft debut last year, taken over Albert Pujols and Ichiro. He brings much-needed proven power and RBI nunbers to the Mavericks. Damon, an expansion acquisition in 2002 will help add speed and runs lost by the boneheaded release of Juan Pierre last year by the Mavericks. Santana could have the largest upside of any of the three. At 24, Santana has finally moved into the Twins rotation with a 1.08 WHIP and 111 strikeouts in 104.1 innings. Larry Walker (No.2 overall, 2000) was arguably the Mavericks most consistent hitter over their first three years. However, the 36-year-old looked to be in the twilight of his career this year with 10 home runs and an under-.300 average. However, Barry Bonds was 37 when he hit 73. Miller (No.4, 2003), Kim (fourth-round, 2004) and Crede (third-round, 2003) all could have great careers ahead of them but have disappointed this year. Kim, a solid fanatsy closer with a high K/IP ratio in relief, wanted to start this year and posted average numbers. He could very easily be a top-notch closer in Boston or somewhere else next year. Miller has been a disappointing top pick for the Mavericks this year. However, the quasi-power pitcher's best days are clearly ahead of him. Crede was a two-time minor league MVP for his great fielding and solid .320, 30 HR bat. However, the White Sox third baseman hasn't carried his late-season 2002 success or those minor league numbers to the majors. He could very easily break out in 2004. The move is a sign that the Naturals have officially given up on 3B project Adrian Beltre.[/img]