Pittsburgh Pirates Acquire 1B Ike Davis

Moments before yesterday’s first pitch the Pittsburgh Pirates and New York Mets completed a trade the sent 1B Ike Davis to the Pirates for minor league right-handed reliever Zack Thornton and a player to be named later. The player to be named is said to be a significant piece, the teams have 6 months to agree on a PTBN. Since the Pirates and Mets have discussed a trade revolving around Davis for several months, it’s likely that the teams have already agreed on a PTBN. Some have speculated that it’s a 2013 Draft Pick since they can not be traded until a year has passed from their signing date. This theory makes sense, although I’d be in shock if it was Austin Meadows or Reese McGuire.

Ike Davis represents an immediate offensive upgrade over Travis Ishikawa, and compliments Gaby Sanchez as a platoon partner who hits right-handed pitching. Over his MLB career in 1296 PA against RHP Davis has posted a strong batting line of .256/.357/.471 , 56 HR, and a 128 wRC+. Against LHP has struggled immensely posting a .202/.267/.331, 12 HR, and a measly 66 wRC+ in 445 PA. Defensively, Davis has posted below average metrics, but isn’t a liability over with the glove. Clint Hurdle now has two first basemen at his disposal who fit into a traditional platoon, where each will be put in a position to maximize their strengths and minimize their weaknesses.