How About Arroyo?

If you’re like me, you’re probably getting frustrated with the Seattle Mariners. First, when the Yankees inquired about Jarrod Washburn, the Mariners boldly stated that if the Yankees wanted Washburn, they’d have to take on Jose Vidro too. The Yankees balked at that idea (rightfully so) and have tried to go another route. They’re basically offering to just take on Washburn’s salary so that the Mariners don’t have to. The team sees Washburn as a cheap pickup, talent-wise, because they can afford to be on the hook, financially and, if that’s the case, they shouldn’t have to give up anything of value to get him.

However, now the Mariners are asking for a top prospect in return for Washburn’s services and they still want the Yanks to take on the rest of Washburn’s salary. To be honest, while it would be nice to have Washburn, he is not essential to the Yankees or their plans. Also, the last time I checked, there were no other real suitors for him, so the Yankees aren’t over a barrel here, especially with Ian Kennedy pitching well and with Phil Hughes (and even Carl Pavano) on the mend. If the Mariners are demanding a top prospect they’re not going to get that from New York, and that’s the way it should be.

Maybe the Yankees should explore an alternative option? Bronson Arroyo could be a good fit. His numbers, overall, look terrible, but in his past 5 starts he’s got a 3.19 ERA. Since the AS break, he’s held hitters to a .189 BA and has a 0.73 WHIP (with a 3.00 ERA). There’s also reason to believe that he’ll pitch well from hereon in when you look at last year’s figures. In 2007, Arroyo struggled through the first half of the season, but put it together in the second half and posted up solid numbers. In 99 IP he struck out 81 and compiled a 3.55 ERA with a 1.31 WHIP.

Arroyo is signed through 2010 ($25 million deal) and would provide added flexibility and depth down the road, as well. The Reds would probably be willing to move him as a salary dump, similar to Washburn, since they’re really going nowhere. If the Yankees can grab Arroyo without giving up any big prospects, and if the Mariners continue to ask for top prospects, then I wouldn’t mind seeing the Yankees acquire our old foe. Also, Arroyo would have some added incentive to beat the Red Sox. They did clown him a few years ago when he offered them a discounted 3-year deal under $12 million, which they agreed to, then promptly traded him to Cincinnati for the wonderful Willy Mo Pena.