Conceptually I can agree and understand what you are talking about.

However, I disagree with the example you have cited to base your case on.

In my humble opinion the trade cited breaks down as follows:

Ledee, Moeller, Howry, Matt Anderson, Yan, Norton, and the 5th round rookie pick are non factors.

The remainder of the trade is:

Shawn Green, Mark Redman, Aubrey Huff
for
Scott Rolen, Mike Lieberthal, Matt Lawton, Daryle Ward

My personal opinion is that
- Rolen's value is equal or greater than Green's (Rolen is younger and quality 3B are harder to find)
- Lieberthal's value is greater than Redman (Redman on a good day is a #3 or #4 starter. Lieberthal may not be considered an elite catcher any longer but he's still in the top half IMO).
- Huff had a better year in 2002 but Lawton has a better history and Ward has more potential. I think Huff for Ward and Lawton is too close to call.

So in my opinion this does not upset league balance because the better team is getting worse (in my opinion).

This is only one man's opinion and you may disagree with my analysis.

My point is.... if you want to put up an example of a bad trade on a bulletin board to throw rocks at it would be better if the trade was actually a bad trade.

..... for example something like
Eric Gagne and Richie Sexson
for
Kris Benson and Rico Brogna

OR

Mike Cameron, Jarrod Washburn, and Tony Armas
for
Bobby Abreu

OR

Frank Thomas
for
Miguel Tejada