Bedard Trade

The Mariners didn't give up a lot in known commodities (other than Jones) but they did give up some quality prospects, more talent prospects then stat driven ones. Jones will be added to Markasis to form a fairly decent, and potentially dynamic, pair of outfielders; Sherrill seems like an odd fit, but he'll probably be traded by July 31st to a contender.

Tillman & Butler are both pitchers who could be in the rotation mid 2010.  You have to look past the W-L records (which don't matter with any pitcher) and ERA to find some potential.  Tillman had a 4.2 K/BB ratio, granted at High-A ball, but its still impressive. Add 9.2 K/9 IP and you see why the Orioles wanted him. Butler went 4.85 K/BB and 7.7 K/9 IP, not too bad for a lanky lefty with a herky-jerky delivery...usually that leads to wildness.  Obviously they both need to perform above Single-A, but it doesn't seem that will be a problem.

Mickolio could be in Baltimore by August; he had a 3.75 K/BB ratio and 10.5 K/9 IP.  He's a big (6'9") hard thrower that has better than average control, and also has a decent changeup.  He's a September call-up, if not an All-Star break call-up.  He probably won't be the next great closer, but every team needs their version of Scott Proctor.

The Orioles also added some size for their rec league basketball team: Mickolio 6'9", Butler 6'7", Tillman 6'5" and Jones has some hops (but only 6'2").

So far MacPhail has given up two and gotten ten, with Roberts left.  And depending on the seasons they have Baez, Bradford, Walker & Sherrill could all go between the All-Star break & the non-waiver trading deadline (hence Mickolio's call-up).