Looking Back: Dayton’s Best Move

You may have heard about this, but former Royal Billy Buckner was traded from Arizona to Detroit for former phenom Dontrelle Willis. You hopefully recall that Buckner, a former 2nd round pick by the Royals in 2004, was traded in December 2007 for Alberto Callaspo.

Needless to say, the move was a win for Dayton Moore. Let’s look deeper:

First let’s see the stats.
Billy Buckner – MLB

Billy Buckner – Minor Leagues

Alberto Callaspo – MLB

Alberto Callaspo – Minors

At the time, Buckner’s future in the majors wasn’t very clear – some suspected he could be a solid bullpen arm, some thought he might be a starter with upside down the line.  Callaspo looked like he would be a solid hitter, but it wasn’t definite if it would be enough, since his defense and speed leave much to be desired for a middle infielder.  Add off the field troubles to that  and it seems the Diamondbacks weren’t sold that he’d be able to make it to the bigs and stay out of trouble (and in 2008, he missed some time on the disabled list for “medical reasons” related to a DUI in June.)

At the time, Bob Dutton called it a “gamble“:

"The question for the Royals, however, is whether it’s worth trading a young, back-of-the-rotation starter for a young second baseman with high-end potential. If you need a second baseman, I think it’s a no-brainer — until you factor in that the second baseman brings some baggage. That baggage makes it a gamble."

There’s no argument that would say that the Diamondbacks got the better end of the deal. As Buckner hangs out in Toledo, after Detroit optioned him to Triple A after the trade, Callaspo is performing at a near All-Star level. Even his defense, a huge weakness at second base, has come around upon the move to third base. His range is less of a factor and he’s able to rely on instinct, which has suited him so far.

When Dayton Moore talks about pitching being the currency of baseball, this is what he means.  And in most cases, I think a gamble like this – for a young, skilled hitter – is worth taking when you have the chance.

You can stay current on all the Kings of Kauffman content and news by following us on Twitter, Facebook, or by way of our RSS feed.