Here is the problem: they can keep all their guys, sign a marginal free agent or two and try to build a bullpen on the fly. And win 78 games in 26 and watch the lockout in 27 at which point López, Ryan, Ober and Jeffers are all gone. Or you can trade them for players that, combined with current prospects, can open a legitimate window of contention in 28 and beyond.
Is this the scenario I wanted? Nope. But they made their bed at the trade deadline (I assume knowingly).