From a recent article by long-time ​Cincinnati Enquirer​ columnist Paul Daughterty:
"One Reds insider said a straight-up Ondrusek-for-Victorino deal was nixed by The Club."
First, some facts:
Victorino is 31 years old. Ondrusek is 27 years old.
Victorino will be a free agent after the 2012 season. Ondrusek will be a free agent after the 2016 season.
Victorino is making $9.5 million this season. Ondrusek is making $492,500.
And now, some numbers:
Ondrusek, career WARP: -0.2
Victorino, career WARP: 21.1
Ondrusek, 2012 WARP: -0.1
Victorino, 2012 WARP: 1.6
You fathom the facts. You know the numbers. And so I ask you, dear reader: Do you nix, or do you not nix?
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The stats say to expect roughly 1 win more with Victorino around. That's assuming continued availability.
The salary numbers say to expect ~$2M additional expense.
Clubhouse chemistry is unpredictable but must be considered. Of course that's less unpredictable for the GM.
Bottom line, it's not a no-brainer. I'd keep my $2M and maybe look around for a different CF upgrade trade, but I wouldn't be critical of a club that DID the trade, either.