To those of you agreeing that it's a pretty good idea, I ask one question...why?
In 2005 with the LA Angels Washburn had a pretty good season going 8-8 in 29 starts pitching to a 3.20 ERA. Since then he has posted 4.67 (95 ERA+), 4.32 (100 ERA+) and 4.75 (84ERA+). Washburn is not a strikeout pitcher, is currently pitching to a 1.482 WHIP, is on the wrong side of 30 (34 in 3 weeks) and gives up far too many HR given he plays half of his games in Safeco National Park.
The Yankee goal in considering this trade is to upgrade the rotation. In my opinion, Washburn does not offer any upgrade over IPK, nor does he offer a significant enough upgrade over Rasner and Ponson to make the deal.
If we are going to make a trade I always feel that getting some kind of talent back is important. If we want to look at AJ Burnett, Aaron Harang or just about anyone with an ERA+ over 100, then great. Washburn is NOT the guy!
