The Reds have made a deal with the Seattle Mariners, acquiring outfielder Wladimir Balentien for RHP Robert Manuel.
Here are Balentien's numbers for 2009:
Not that impressive, eh? His overall minor league numbers are much better, so there is hope. In just over 2400 career minor leauge PAs, he's hit .273/.345/.526, hitting over 20 home runs at three straight levels.
Honestly, I like this deal. Balentien was at one time considered untouchable. The fact that the Reds managed to get him for Manuel, who is good but not outstanding, is a good sign. Balentien just turned 25 and has the potential to provide the Reds with some right-handed pop that they need.