T(i)rades

Freddy Sanchez and Jack Wilson talk is floating around like sex talk in middle school computer labs. The duo is being labeled the only proven core of the Pirate Ballclub by some, and a large expense by others.

As far as media goes,

Gene Collier will lose all hope in the Pirates organization if they leave.

Mark Madden will be disappointed if we pay big bucks for the duo.

Both guys have valid arguments-->

Freddy and Jack are incredible defensively, and Freddy is a hit machine when his mole is healthy. But if we keep them, are the Pirates merely wading in the waters of rebuilding? Do they have one foot in, and not have the balls to jump in the cold water. 'Lord knows there could be success in the deep end-or a drowning victim.

I personally would like to keep the duo intact and inburgh.

The D: These guys turn double plays like it's the seventh inning stretch. Their defensive efforts have kept the Bucs in several ballgames, and their limited errors hold together the infield, and have played big part in this year's pitching improvements.

The Bats: Jack Wilson is not a slugger by any means(he's in a bit of a slump right now), but his bat can be dangerous at the bottom of the rotation. Many-a-time he has the extra spark to drive in runs and get the bases moving. Freddy Sanchez is the best hitter on the team. That would be "nuff said," but he is also a master at ball placement. He can put the ball at the right place at the right time to squeeze runs. Hitting the other way, hustling, bunting-you get it all with Freddy.

The Bucks: There is no reason the Pirates shouldn't negotiate with Jack Wilson. Even if based solely on the fact that he is much more valuable to the Pirates than to any other club-Firstly because we have no replacement for him, and secondly because he isn't seen as an above average player to anyone in the MLB. Teams will only look to acquire him for defensive purposes, and the Pirates will not get a sufficient replacement for him from within the organization or from trading him. Freddy's negotiations are much more tricky, because he is worth a lot of money, and teams do see him as a great player-he has a batting title to prove it.

This duo wants to stay in Pittsburgh. It's great to see that from guys, and if you look at the way they play, it's evident. To boot, isn't it great to see Jack Wilson playing so well late in his career?

In the end, rebuilding has its counterarguments, and "unrefuseable trades" can take their toll; but this duo has me convinced that this is one trade that the Pirates should not make.