Jason Bartlett is known for many things and that is one of the reasons why he has made the news today.
The fabled shortstop from the Tampa Bay Rays has finally made a switch across regions in Major League Baseball. The top trade item has joined the San Diego Padres on a trade deal. The transaction that sees the 31-year-old move from the American League to
the National League, clubs in another player who will join him at his new club soon. The Rays however, avail themselves three new players; infielder – Cole Figueroa, closers – Adam Russell, Cesar Ramos and Brandon Gomes.
The deal seems to be turning out well for both sides as the Padres get cover for the coming year. Given Orlando Hudson’s induction before the end of the offseason period, things could look strong for the club. Their title challenge in the coming year will
be a tough task to carry forward. The ball team will have to face stiff competition from the Los Angeles Dodgers and the 2010 World Series winners, San Francisco Giants. Things could get difficult if the side desires to claim the National League West crown
in dominant fashion.
It’s important to know what Jason brings to the team and it will be his induction that will lead questions on his ability when he takes to the field on the shortstop position.
The top man was the sportswriters’ 2008 Team’s Most Valuable Player, despite scoring less runs in the season. In 2010, he presented the Rays with average figures on batting average and runs contribution. He scored 71 runs, smashed 4 home runs, drove in 47
runs and stole 11 bases in the season. The former Boston Red Sox player is someone who can fit well in the side and General Manager Jed Hoyer thinks that’s the case.
"We're really happy to get Jason. I watched him play when I was in Boston. He's hard to play against," General Manager Jed Hoyer said. "He's a pest. He battles every at-bat. He was a guy you didn't want to see in the batter's box."
"His value is in that he does everything well. He brings a ton to a team. He's a winning player," Hoyer said. "I don't think it was a fluke that the year they went to the World Series he was the team MVP, despite not having gaudy numbers."
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