Mariners Trade 2: Something more realistic
I would say that Hendricks actually has a bit of value, as his contract and age are what sets him back in most people’s minds. I think there is more value in a reliable starter for a decent cost, and that’s what you get in Hendricks.
From 2015-2019, he averaged 30 starts for 177 innings with an ERA of 3.20. That’s as close to reliable and top of the line as you can get. Is it ACE material? No, not quite. Especially with just 7.8 K/9. It is number one material though, and I don’t think he is too far away from that.
(Quickly. Personally, I think there are only about 10 Ace’s in the league. There are 30 number ones though. End of note.)
In return, we send the Cubs two future starters, although Rinehart could end up being a bullpen guy. With Phillips, they get the Mariners number nine prospect, with a plus fastball and a potential plus curveball.
A big part of this is dependant on if the Cubs are looking to re-tool, or if they are looking to re-build. If it’s a re-build, then getting two fair prospects like Phillips and Rinehart would be a decent haul.