Solarte vs. Headley: A Week In Review

After the Padres traded Chase Headley to the Yankees last week for infielder Yangervis Solarte, there were many Padres fans who were relieved and many who were upset about the return, or lack thereof. I have said from the beginning that I like Solarte. I thought this return would be better than most people thought originally. My co-editor, Billy Brost, agrees and wrote about it shortly after the deal was made. Here is a look at these two players in their new homes after 1 week on the field…

Chase Headley started off with a bang, hitting a walk-off single in extra innings upon his arrival. In 8 games, he has 10 hits in 30 at-bats, a .333 average, with 1 HR and 4 RBI with 2 walks, which is an on-base percentage of .375. He has not had a bad stint with the Bronx Bombers so far, and is playing Gold Glove-caliber defense.

Yangervis Solarte has been a great addition for San Diego, especially the fact that he can play multiple positions. His first at-bat as a Friar resulted in an RBI triple. In 7 games, he has 8 hits in 28 at-bats along with 4 walks. That is an average of .286 and an on-base percentage of .353. He also has 2 HRs and 6 RBI with 7 runs scored. He has been instrumental in a couple of Padres wins already, and is a jolt of energy that the Padres’ lineup has seemed to lack for most of the season.

Headley may have a higher OBP and average during this time, but Solarte has had the upper hand in the power department. He has one more home run, 2 more RBI and 3 more runs scored. Solarte also has a .571 slugging percentage as a Padre. Headley as a Yankee? A .355 clip. I think it is fair to say that the Padres should be happy with this trade so far. Keep in mind, Solarte is also 3 years younger. There is a lot of season left and a lot can happen, but so far he has proven he can be an everyday Padre for years to come.