He is saying basically Lane because he would take the spot when Hidalgo left. Of course. But that's not what the trade is. If we trade Hidalgo for a bag of balls, we still have Lane. The trade would not be Hidalgo for Lane and a bag of balls. Right now, Lane can be used for other purposes if he's deemed to be good enough - 4th outfielder, pinch hitter, injury sub, whatever. If you trade Hidalgo and put Lane there, then that no longer is an option. You're not "gaining" a Lane out of this deal in any way. If you're going to evaluate the trade, it is Hidalgo for Mora and Groom. You only list Lane to make it sound better than it is.