Looks like this trade is all but done. The teams have submitted the trade's parameters to the commissioner's office, and the last hurdle to clear is Arizona's 2008 extension to Johnson, which isn't expected to be a problem. The Yankees reportedly will receive Luis Vizcaino, Ross Ohlendorf, Alberto Gonzalez, and a minor league pitcher to be named later. Vizcaino is a quality arm in the bullpen who can pitch the 7th inning, but his ratios will obviously rise heading into the AL, specifically the AL East. He'll probably stay in middle relief and never claim a prominent role in the Yankee's bullpen. The other prospects aren't anyone of note, but the big story is that the Yankees will save roughly $18 million with the deal. I never thought I'd see the Yankees make a deal that would save them money. This is simply just rectifying a problem they brought on themselves, though. The Yankees made a big mistake acquiring him anyways by hoping he could turn in one last ace season for them, especially at what they were paying him. At his age, he just isn't what he used to be.
Fantasy Impact: Johnson's ERA and WHIP will drop, while his K-rate will rise heading back to the NL, but he'll lose a few wins. He's going from MLB's best offensive division with great hitter's ballparks (NY, BOS, TOR most notably) to possibly MLB's worst offensive division (LAD, SD, SF). Also of note is the great infield defense the Diamondbacks boast...just look at Brandon Webb's career year last season. Johnson's more a flyball pitcher these days since his slider doesn't bite like it once did, though. It's definitely a boost for Johnson's value, but his injury-risk remains rather high. His newfound NL-related upside is probably worth being a 3rd starter for your fantasy team, but don't count on him staying off the DL. He'll probably end up a bit overrated come draft day due to name recognition.
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