Waiving Bloomquist

Eugene Freedman writes:

I'm surprised William Bloomquist was waived in a 12 team AL only league, given his success and multiple position qualification.

At first I really didn't pay much attention. Bloomquist was waived in favor of Josh Hamilton, and if you believe that there's any kind of choice between Hamilton and Bloomquist, I'd advise you not to feel bad because football season is only a mere four months away.

However, Eugene makes a couple of good points within his brief comment:

• In a 12 team league, Bloomquist is a better option than anyone who is out in the free agent pool at this point.
• In my league, he's eligible at both middle infield positions (in-season three game requirement).

This happens every year at the beginning of the season, though. Owners don't shop these types of players in trade, and other owners won't take players like this in trade (for the most part) since they figure they'll need their minor league picks to peddle in dump deals later.

The second point is a fair one...depending on your league. In my A.L., you should be able to do a little bit better than Bloomquist by swapping out a 2nd round pick.

The first point is not excusable. You should at least try to trade someone like Bloomquist to another owner. At this time of year, there are so many players coming back from injury that you should be able to swap out Bloomquist for something that you need.

In my A.L. this past week:

• Gavin Floyd was swapped for Eric Patterson. The Floyd owner was in contention and didn't want to sit through another bad start, so a non-contender thought he'd roll the dice.
• Scott Richmond was traded for Reid Brignac. The Richmond owner had to clear a spot for Phil Hughes, so at least he got something for Richmond.

There are almost always opportunities like this, particularly in leagues where you can't reserve active major leaguers. If you have someone like Bloomquist and have to trade him, make sure you get something in return.