It's simple supply and demand. The Rangers needed to get rid of an infielder so their highly treasured prospect Profar could have a full season on his slate for 2014. The Tigers were in need of a 2nd baseman as Peralta in currently a free agent.
Switching two long term big money contracts seems easy to do when you are the Rangers and the Tigers. Two teams who seem to enjoy those sorts. Prince Fielder topping out at 10 years over 200 million. Kinsler's contract over $100 million less with the same amount of years.
But looking deeper. The Tigers needed to save that approximately $100 Million, or half of that depending on what free agent they pick up in the near future. Saving for Miguel Cabrera's extension, or in other words "SUPER EXTENSION". Meaning surely over 300 million total.
I don't see anyone losing in this trade at this moment. The Tigers are able to get an all-star second baseman, along with saving money for Cabrera. The Rangers are able to pick up a left handed power hitter who they lost when Hamilton went to Anaheim. Along with a full season with Jurrikson Profar. |