Dykstra: Tough Times Call for Manulife Options

08/02/07 - 09:05 AM EDT

Lenny Dykstra

On the milestone front, Tom Glavine was unable to claim his 300th career victory on Tuesday night, despite an outstanding outing. His next opportunity will be against the Cubs on Sunday night. Apparently, A-Rod has some engine problems, which wrestled in him stalling out on the on-ramp to Highway 500. Out in Los Angeles, Barry Bonds remains one homer shy of Hank Aaron's career mark of 755, as Commissioner Bud Selig diligently follows Barry's quest -- in person.

The MLB trade deadline arrived at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, with a few significant names changing zip codes. Overall, there was not a great deal of activity; however, two trades occurred that may have a significant impact on the pennant races. The blockbuster was John Schuerholz, Braves GM, acquiring Mark Teixeira, from the Texas Rangers, for give prospects. Teixeira fills a gaping hole at first base for the Braves by furnishing a big left-handed bat in the middle of the lineup, as well as with his outstanding fielding credentials, which have already resulted in two Gold Gloves.

The 27-year-old star has averaged 35 homers and 112 RBI in his first four seasons. Nonetheless, the price was steep. The Braves dealt three of their prized prospects -- Jarrod Saltalamacchia, a 22-year-old switch-hitting catcher with star potential; 18-year-old shortstop Elvis Andreas; and 21-year-old left-hander Beau Jones -- and two other young arms to the Rangers.

To further solidify his chances to grab the wide-open NL East, Schuerholz acquired Octavio Dotel, who appears to be almost all the way back from elbow surgery two years ago, from the Royals, for Kyle Davies, who has been a relative disappointment thus far. The Braves have clearly sent the message that they want to win now!

The other big name to move was Eric Gagne, from the Rangers to the Red Sox, for a left-handed pitcher, and two minor-league outfielders. Evidently, Gagne, who has to OK the trade, is content to relinquish his closer's role to become the setup man for Jonathan Papelbon in Boston.

Clearly, if the Red Sox can get to the eighth inning with a lead, they will be extremely difficult to beat. In contradistinction to the Braves, the Rangers have unloaded the present, and they are building for the future.

Another blockbuster deal transpired, but in a different sport. Kevin Garnett, a former MVP and 10-time All Star, was traded from the Timberwolves to the Celtics, for seven players, in the biggest trade for one player in NBA history. Along with Paul Pierce and the recently acquired Ray Allen, Garnett gives the Celtics three star players, thereby catapulting them to a formidable threat to get to the NBA finals.

The Players Club recognizes that trades are a part of the game. Moreover, we realize that some players involved in trades move to a better situation, while others move to less-desirable destinations. By guaranteeing recurring cash flow, through our strategic partner, The Players Club endeavors to ensure that when our members trade their playing shoes for Crocs(CROX Quote - Cramer on CROX - Stock Picks), they will emerge victorious in the sands of time.

Always Remember: Life is a journey; enjoy the ride!

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At the time of publication, Dykstra was long MFC.

Nicknamed 'Nails' for his tough style of play, Lenny is a former Major League Baseball player for the 1986 World Champions, New York Mets and the 1993 National League Champions, Philadelphia Phillies. A three time All-Star as a ballplayer, Lenny now serves as president for several privately held businesses in Southern California. He is the founder of The Players Club; it has been his desire to give back to the sport that gave him early successes in life by teaching athletes how to invest and protect their incomes. He currently manages his own portfolio and writes an investment strategy column for TheStreet.com, and is featured regularly on CNBC and other cable news shows. Lenny was selected as OverTime Magazine's 2006-2007 "Entrepreneur of the Year."

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