Keeping Hamilton and going for it are NOT synonymous. The Reds have tried the great offense route. Hasn't worked. Volquez was the right guy at the right time. Young, dominated three levels last year, comes from the AL. That he's cheap is gravy. Cueto pitched his way into the rotation, and ALL he has EVER done is produce at every level. Belisle was pegged to be the #3, and I firmly believe he'll be in the rotation. Fogg was insurance in case one of the three pitching prospects didn't kick the door down. Volquez was always going to be in the rotation.
Trading the Farm for Haren was not going to happen, and shouldn't have. The Reds have had highly rated prospects before, but never so many and at such an advanced level.