Found November 09, 2011 on isportsweb.com: Yardbarker Blogger Network
PLAYERS: BJ Upton
TEAMS: Tampa Bay Rays
Upton's power surge led to his best season in 4 years. (examiner.com) At the 2011 MLB Trade Deadline, one name mentioned on every rumor site was B.J. Upton. The deadline came and went, and Upton remained in Tampa. People were somewhat surprised. But the non-trade turned out to be for the best for the Rays. Upton put up a .280/.377/.497 line the rest of the season to help the Rays make the playoffs. And now there’s another dimension to it: Upton’s trade value is at its highest point in years. Upton’s final numbers in 2011 were pretty impressive. He put up a .243/.331/.429 line with 27 doubles, 23 homers, 81 RBI, and 36 stolen bases at a 75% success rate. It was easily his best season since 2007, his first full year in the big leagues. The Rays could get more for Upton now than they could at the 2012 deadline. If they’re going to trade him, they will do it this offseason. What’s holding them back? The farm system. The Rays have a great system, but it’s one thing to have a prospect...
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