But the Orioles aren't making moves for value in 2016. They're trying to win a championship now.
We are so used to being in rebuilding and developmental mode that we're missing the point this season. The point is to win a championship! It's a total 360 from the last 14 seasons.
That's not to say you trade Arrieta for a 2 month rental because you don't. But the two guys they gave up? It's not a big deal at all.
Again, it's not about these players in particular but the process as a whole. You're receiving a marginal upgrade in Thome for 2 guys who could become huge values in the future (given how little players are compensated for their pre-arb years).
This result isn't necessarily flawed - the process is.
EDIT:
I should clarify - this trade isn't the end of the world. I think we gave up too much but I don't hate it. It definitely doesn't kill us. However if we keep making deals like this, we're just giving away value; something that anyone can tell you is a dumb idea.