This article is part of our Bernie on the Scene series.
Last week I wrote about important transactions made in the offseason by American League clubs.
This week, I turn to National League clubs to discuss some very consequential transactions that have taken place. Many of these will impact our fantasy team rosters this season.
This list is not all-inclusive. Next week I will feature other players new to their teams who have not been profiled as yet.
SAN DIEGO PADRES
Yu Darvish
Right-handed pitcher
6-5, 220
Age 34
Acquired in trade from Cubs
The Cubs are shedding payroll whenever and wherever possible. Darvish may have been moved for several reasons. First, he is in the midst of a nine-year, $120M contract he signed that doesn't expire until after the 2023 season. The Padres will be on the hook for $62M until then.
The Cubs may also be wary of Darvish due to his arm injury history. He has had Tommy John surgery and has missed time due to arm, shoulder and forearm soreness.
And, the Cubs may wonder how many pitches remain in his 34-year-old right arm.
An All-Star four times in his eight-year major league career, Darvish also has seven seasons pitching in Japan and an additional two seasons of minor league baseball in the United States.
Darvish is still an outstanding starting pitcher with a vast repertoire of deceptive pitches. He will throw any of six pitches at any point in the count, and he throws them for strikes.
Conclusions: Fantasy managers should note that Darvish will now
