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Look, here’s the thing on the San Diego trade...
Armed with hindsight, it failed at every level. But that’s not a fair way to evaluate any moves a team makes.
At the time, the Royals moved an injured current asset (Strahm) and a low-level prospect in Ruiz in a deal that seemingly filled all remaining holes. Buchter offered a similar amount of control as Strahm, Cahill has been excellent that year and showed real signs of a major step forward, and Maurer was a lottery ticket.
They continue to give Maurer chances because of his arm talent. They’re hoping he figures something out and becomes an asset they can move for future pieces. On a team that isn’t contending, it’s the type of shot they should be taking.
They’re in a rebuild phase. Blowing some games in the pen is not necessarily a bad outcome if you take the long view.
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