Mike Ackerstein, writing for "the largest fully independent daily campus newspaper in the nation", in a sort-of-point-counterpoint article with another writer, has put the most positive, front-office-like spin that I've heard yet on the Cabrera-Willis trade, calling it "the best move since the season's end because it means the Fish won't have very high expectations going into 2008.
"In trading away Willis and Cabrera, Florida has effectively killed any chances that pundits and fans will expect a finish higher than fourth place in the NL East. Because the goals won't be so lofty, the atmosphere should be relaxed, creating perfect conditions for the young Marlins and the centerpiece of the deal - former Tigers first round selection, pitcher Andrew Miller - to grow at their own pace.
"Instead of dealing with questions about why they aren't winning more games or what moves they need to make for a playoff run, the Marlins can allow their cheap and youthful lineup a chance to flourish under the radar. While this should certainly help the team win games in the future, it may even give them a chance to sneak up on opponents late in this season, giving them the opportunity to make a year-end playoff push as Florida has done in years past.
"No pressure? No problems. Marlins for the win." (BadgerHerald)
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