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Thanks, everyone, for helping me clear my head on a very tough decision. Even with opinions basically split, your thoughts helped me see some new angles. Originally, I had the gut feeling I'd go with Graves. He has the power potential, OF range that Lott does not, and is further along. After way too much thought, I decided to trade for Lott instead.
Reasons:
1. Past performance. Lott's numbers exceed or compare equally with Graves', even in categories where Graves should have an advantage. Lott looks better overall and quite a bit on the basepaths, where things looked closer ratings-wise. This gives me an inkling that his intangibles bring more to the table as he develops.
2. Position. Looking up and down my org's depth chart, I realized having a RF mattered more than I first thought. I always value defense, and even being strong up the middle, I couldn't quite sign off on a RF with just a 9-strength arm.
3. Injury History. Graves had a couple of month-long injuries in two seasons. It could be no big deal, but word is Lott is built like a brickhouse.
4. Additional considerations. Already feeling Lott might be the guy, I started sniffing around greedily at other prospects. Though in no need of another young outfielder, my trading colleague said why not take along his top international prospect signing, 19 years young and nearly as frickin' good (see below). I said "Sure, and here's an impending-FA AAA slugger on a major league deal, simply because I like you." Deal complete.
Thanks again, everyone. I'll let you know how things work out down the road.
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