The man known only as "A-Rod" was traded on January 5, making the first player swap of the off-season an explosive one. The beleaguered third baseman is moving to Floral Park, along with Paul Konerko and Bartolo Colon, in exchange for a five-player package headed by Scott Rolen and Justin Verlander.

A-Rod spent 2 1/2 years in the St. Jack's organization and, despite tying or setting several single-season records in 2006, never performed up to expectations. He batted .296 with 24 homeruns (fourth in the NYLISL) and 72 RBIs (second in the NYLISL) last season. He also finished third in hits with 92 and tied a single-season St. Jack's record with 71 runs scored.

His replacement at third base will be Rolen, a former Demon whose contract also expires in 2010. Verlander is expected to take the fourth slot in the St. Jack's rotation in 2007 and has a world of potential.

In addition to Rolen and Verlander, the Demons also added Rafael Furcal, Adrian Beltre and Endy Chavez. Furcal is expected to start at shortstop next season, Beltre will toil in Pearl River and Chavez has a chance to make the big club as a fifth outfielder. Beltre, who has three years remaining on his contract, is believed to be available for a low draft pick.