Before we go and get all in a tizzy over the Rich Harden trade, let's keep in mind that Billy Beane may not be done wheeling and dealing! Does shipping out Kenny Rogers and turning right around and acquiring Kevin Appier ring a bell from several seasons back? If you recall, people questioned the move then because the A's were in contention as well! There are still three weeks left before the trade deadline and something tells me we are far from done!

As much as I thought Rich Harden was amazing when healthy, who didn't? I also was constantly on pins and needles for whenever his next baffling injury would occur! Over his past two starts his dominating fastball had disappeared and now was clearly the time to move him. After another start or two we may have had him back on the DL and left with no takers. Clearly had Harden been healthy for the better part of his young career, Beane would not have parted with him!  But being the Ace poker player he is, Beane felt it was time to fold 'em! I for one am in agreement, although I must admit there was nothing quite like Harden when he was on his game! It was thrilling indeed! We just didn't see enough of it!

I am one fan that wishes Rich the best of luck (and Chad as well), however if the A's and Cubs would have waited to near the deadline, there are too many things that could have happened to jeopardize the deal from both teams perspectives and it would not have happened. There simply were too many variables involved!

I think a more legitimate question at this point is did we get enough in return? And I believe the answer is YES!  We received more chess pieces to stock our system and Murton and Patterson are big league ballplayers. Gallagher can be an innings eater that has good long range potential. Murton has hit well in the past and coupled with young stud Wes Bankston we have a couple of strong right handed youngsters which we haven't had for a while. But it is important to note that production in Iowa CIty or in the National League in general does not usually result in positve results in the far Superior American League. (see Jason Kendall). Only time will tell, but I like the fire of Gallagher for our staff! Patterson also gives us some security should Mark Ellis decide to take the money and run at the end of the season!

So keep the faith A's fans! This trade will not result in us falling off of the cliff and out of contention. There is more to come before the deadline and if we are still within striking distance of a wild card or even the division lead, Belly Beane has not had a problem in the past of bringing in a "rent a vet" to push us over the top! CHINS UP!

By the way, am I the only one that thinks Travis Buck will not be a River Cat for long?

-Goldzone