I like the deal a lot. I've watched LaRoche the last four years as a Nat. The best things about him are that he hits in clutch situations and his defense is slick (despite what the sabers say). he'll help save Abreu's legs.
Now if we can also get Gregorson, and another reliever, plus trade ARam for value, I'll be happy.
I'm all for trading Alexie for the most value we can get because we will never have more leverage than now. First I think 2016 is our first year of contention not 2015, second, we'd be selling Alexie high, he's likely not getting another silver slugger next year, and third, there so many teams that desperately need a shortstop this year Dodgers, Yankees, Mets,etc.