The M's are still only three games back of the American League Wild Card race, which appears to be a miracle with their myriad of injuries to their starting rotation this season. Leake is a bit more dependable than dominant, and should crack the rotation immediately. Seattle also received money for international signings.

The Cardinals decided to dump Leake early, as his inconsistent ways (along with his hefty salary through 2020) probably led to the decision to ship him out right away. In return, the Cards get a 21-year-old shortstop in Ascanio, who is mostly a defensive wiz in the infield. This trade seems like a salary dump, pure and simple.

Ascanio has a long way to go before he is even considered a fantasy option for some. As for Leake, he could turn things around in his first stint in the American League, thanks mostly to Safeco Field.