Crystal Ball: Future Trade Targets v. 1.0

This is the beginning of a series that identifies potential trade targets for the Pirates in the future. Explained is the reasoning behind why the Pirates should look to make a big splash in the trade market in the next few years. This version of the series includes Dylan Bundy, Manny Machado, and Chris Sale.  Immediately after the jump is the primer I will use for the entire series.

Reaction: Reds get Mat Latos

The National League Central landscape has changed drastically over the last few weeks.  Albert Pujols traded leagues and headed west to become an Angel.  Prince Fielder still hasn't made a decision, and while he still could return to the NL Central with either the Cubs or Brewers, it's possible he winds up elsewhere.  Ryan Braun faces a 50 game suspension.  All those factors have left the NL Central door open for a team to step in.  Today, the Reds, who already had a talented core who led them to a playoff birth tow seasons ago, seized that opportunity, trading for Mat Latos.