Back round: In regards to prospects, we can keep them on our minor league roster until they reach 100 IP for pitchers or 500 plate appearances for hitters.  Once they reach those thresholds, we can sign then up to 6 yrs as restricted FA...  as restricted, the owner can match any contract offer to that player.  With that said, an owner can theoretically control a minor league up to 12 years (6 yr restricted deal, 6 yr match).  But most contracts for minor league have ranged from 2-3 initial contract then a 3-5 yr match opportunity.  So...

Trade One:

I traded: Matt Moore/Brett jackson/Yovanni Gallardo (control through 2013)/1st rd pick (Likely 5th pick in draft.  Starling/Lindor/Baez likely to be available)

I received: Dustin Pedrioa  (control through 2013)

I love Moore...  He is gonna be an excellent pitcher with health.  I go back and forth on Jackson...  part of me loves his all around skills but i think (even as a stat head) that once a player reaches a certain number of K's, it will really prohibit him from being a productive player.  I hate losing the 1st rd pick but i have 1st or 2nd pick in the draft along with 6 picks in 2nd and 3rd rd so i'll be able to offset the lose of Moore with high upside 2011 MLB draft pitchers.  Gallardo is solid but will never reach ACE status IMO.

Trade Two:

I Traded Robinson Cano (Control through 2016)

I received: Evan Longoria ( Control through 2013)

The Peds deal allowed me to flip Cano for Longoria.  

A) I think Longoria is better than Cano (mildly)

B) I have had a black hole at 3rd for the past two years

C) Saving 3 years in Cano/Longoria swap will allow me to sign and keep Cameron Maybin