Ray Durham
Photo: Icon SMI

An emotional Durham could only stand to be in the Giants' dugout for a few innings during the series finale against Milwaukee, but was prepared to make the switch right afterward and head to St. Louis with the Brewers. The 36-year-old second baseman, in his sixth season with San Francisco and the final year of a two-year contract, had to approve the deal.

"He's a veteran guy that can come in here and help our club," Milwaukee general manager Doug Melvin said. "We're trying to add as many good players as we can. We're trying to win this thing."

I like that quote from Melvin. That attitude was evident in the Sabathia trade, as they didn't insist on signing CC. After an off year in 2007, Durham came back strong in 2008, posting a .385 OBA. Rickie Weeks is at .326, based mostly on a very low batting average. Durham should improve the club.

The Giants get Steve Hammond, who has excellent strikeout and walk numbers in the minors. At 26 he's mature, and his path to the majors should be short. They also receive Darren Ford, a non-slugging outfielder.

Bottom line, I like that Milwaukee is pulling out all the stops to win this thing. They may end up a poor team for a few years afterward, but it's been a very long time since the city saw a championship baseball team.