The Kansas City Royals’ cautious approach at the trade deadline didn’t cost them top-tier prospect capital, but it did strip a key piece from the current roster. Catcher Freddy Fermin wasn’t an All-Star or even the everyday starter, but his grit, improbable path to Kansas City, and impact beyond the box score made him a quick fan favorite.
Still, when the chance arose to land two controllable, MLB-ready starting pitchers for a 30-year-old backup catcher, it was the kind of move you make every day and twice on Sunday. Yet, less than two weeks removed from the deal, Fermin’s early returns in San Diego have the Padres looking like the side that got the better end.