SCHNEIDER, CHURCH FOR MILLEDGE
The New York Mets acquired catcher Brian Schneider and outfielder Ryan Church from the Washington Nationals for outfielder Lastings Milledge.
What does it give the New York Mets
Schneider and Church are reunited with Mets GM Omar Minaya, who were all together with the Montreal Expos. Schneider is expected to take over the No. 1 catcher role but still defer a lot of playing time to Ramon Castro. As for Johnny Estrada, recently acquired from Milwaukee, he's now expected to be non-tendered. Church will probably be an invaluable fourth outfielder for the Mets, since he can play all three positions. However, unless the Mets another veteran right-fielder, Church may win that job ahead of Endy Chavez, Carlos Gomez or Ben Johnson.
What does it give the Washington Nationals
Milledge will probably emerge as Washington's center-fielder though, like Church, he can play all three positions. Milledge has the tools to become great but his attitude has been in question in New York. With less media scrutiny, don't be surprised if Milledge busts out in 2008. With Schneider gone, look for Jesus Flores--another former Mets prospect--to receive a serious look as the starter behind the plate.
Fantasy impact
