The Oakland Athletics and Arizona Diamondbacks completed one of the bigger deals of the offseason thus far on Friday afternoon. The A's sent starting pitcher Trevor Cahill, reliever Craig Breslow, and cash considerations to Arizona for prized pitching prospect Jarrod Parker, relief pitcher Ryan Cook and outfielder Collin Cowgill.
The players involved recently discussed the deal with Susan Slusser of the SF Chronicle. Here are a few of the highlights, all coming courtesy of Twitter. As for the guys coming to Oakland:
Colin Cowgill tells me: "I'm super excited. I just learned the news and I couldn't be more excited." Hopes for starting OF spot.
Jarrod Parker tells me: "It's a real shock to be moved, but I'm glad to get an opportunity with Oakland."
Ryan Cook: "It came as an absolute shocker, my emotions are mixed. ... But I'm excited to embark on this journey with Oakland."
And for the guys headed to the desert to join the D-backs:
Trevor Cahill tells me: "I'd heard the rumors but I never thought I'd be the guy to get traded."
Cahill: "Looking at it positively, I get to go somewhere where they want to win now. I loved it in Oakland, I'm comfortable there"
Breslow tells me: "I've been on the other side, not being desired.... I've never been traded to a team that wants my services."
On paper, this looks like a move that could greatly benefit both teams. The D-backs to improve their club as they attempt to win in the very near future, while the A's continue to build for the future and rid themselves of salary obligations.
For more on the deal, head on over to Athletics Nation.