Indians — The reports on LaPorta vary greatly. One scout who saw LaPorta play multiple series said his poor defense is overstated and that he could handle first base or a corner outfield adequately. Another supporter said, "There is not that much righty power anymore, and this guy is going to hit and hit for power."

But one scout, a detractor, said, "They already have (Ryan) Garko and (Travis) Hafner, and this is just another bat you can't hide defensively." Another scout said he projects LaPorta as a fourth outfielder and an NL executive cautioned, "He has had injuries in college and the pros, and if he doesn't hit big, he doesn't really help you at all." Also, sources say the second-best prospect Cleveland is getting in the deal is the player to be named later, likely Double-A center fielder Michael Brantley.

Cubs — Chicago officials insist they were working toward Harden before Sabathia moved to a division rival. But several executives insist that is not true. One AL GM said, "I don't think the Cubs acted rationally. I think that guy (Harden) is going to break and break soon. That deal was not in the works for weeks. That was a reaction. I keep hearing (Cubs manager Lou) Piniella wanted the front office to do something."

The Cubs yielded a chunk of a limited system, but one NL GM said, "They did not give up an impact player." They are clearly going for it in 2008 and did not surrender anyone projected to help this year's club. And, in Harden, they obtained a pitcher who if he stays healthy — a huge if — can dominate from here through October.