O's ADD MINOR-LEAGUE BACKSTOP MONELL
The Baltimore Orioles acquired catcher Johnny Monell from the San Francisco Giants for cash.
What does it give the Baltimore Orioles
On paper this is just a solid depth move by Baltimore, adding in Monell a veteran minor league backstop with a good bat. Those looking for a deeper significance might see this as more proof the Orioles are looking at the possibility of trading young star catcher {P Matt Wieters}. While Monell isn't likely to replace Wieters if such a future trade comes to pass, Monell does give Baltimore more options behind the plate. Look for Monell to push for a backup spot in Baltimore in 2014.
What does it give the San Francisco Giants
The Giants are set behind the dish with superstar {P Buster Posey} and solid backup {P Hector Sanchez}, so moving Monell won't affect them much on the field. Rather, it gives San Fran a bit more roster flexibility and saves them some cash for this off-season.
Fantasy impact
Look for Monell to push fellow longtime minor leaguer {P Steve Clevenger} in spring training for top backup duties behind {P Matt Wieters} for 2014. Monell has the better bat of the two, so might have some deep sleeper appeal in the coming campaign if something happens to Wieters. As mentioned, for the Giants this trade doesn't have any significant impact (fantasy or otherwise).
