Grading the Top MLB Trades and Free-Agent Signings Post-Lockout

In the days since Major League Baseball lifted its lockout, the free-agent and trade markets have reopened, and there have been deals left, right and center.

Here's what we think of the biggest ones so far.

Specifically, we've offered grades for the five most notable signings and trades since baseball got back to business. In assigning these, we weighed how much we like the players involved, how they fit on their new teams and any other relevant matters.

We'll start with some honorable mentions and then hit the trades first.

Honorable Mentions

Chicago Cubs Sign SS Andrelton Simmons

The Deal: 1 year, $4 million

Maybe Simmons isn't the shortstop Cubs fans wanted, but his spectacular defense should…