Why did the REDS trade Hamilton?

[charlotte49er]

I know he had problems, but they took a chance on him and he had a great season, then they trade him to the Rangers. I'm not sure who they even got in return.

Anyway, Props to Josh Hamilton for being the ALCS MVP!

[tarheelblue89]

They got Edinson Volquez and Danny Herrera, who have been good for the Reds.

The Reds management has said in the past that the injuries had nothing to do with the trade, but I think it had something to do with it.

Plus, I'm 100% positive that in the back of everyone's head, they were all thinking that this guy is bound to break out and require a huge paycheck. Why not get something for him, before he bounces out of here.

Trade worked well for both teams, obviously better for the Rangers.

[Starscream]

Volquez has been ok, and Danny Ray Herrera got sent down not too long into this season. Volquez could be outstanding, but the injury bug has hurt him. Tommy John surgery sucks. Hamilton had a list of problems with drugs and alcohol; the Reds took a chance on him anyway. He had a decent season, but wasn't anything comparable to what he's been after the trade. As a Reds fan, I hate the trade to this day, but to quote John Fox, "It is what it is". At the time, we needed pitching and it looked like a decent trade. Looking back on things, it was a very one-sided deal.

We could have had Votto, Hamilton, Phillips, and Rolen all in the same year. That probably would have pushed us further in the playoffs and maybe the WS this year. But there's no crying over spilt milk.