The Rams received Steve Bagarus in exchange for Tom Farmer…
The Rams received Steve Bagarus in exchange for Tom Farmer and Ralph Ruthstrom. Bagarus appeared in only two games for Los Angeles before later returning to Washington, limiting the Rams' realized value from the transaction. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Rams within the final Washington Redskins Win verdict.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- player Steve Bagarus
Washington Commanders Received
- player Tom Farmer
- player Ralph Ruthstrom
Trade Analysis
The Exchange
On 1947-01-18, Los Angeles Rams received Steve Bagarus, while Washington Commanders received Tom Farmer and Ralph Ruthstrom. The package is supported well enough to judge the deal by what each side actually obtained afterward. The original stakes varied from cash and late picks to veteran players, so the grades emphasize realized football value rather than the size or reputation of the assets at the moment of the exchange.
Los Angeles Rams Return
The Rams received Steve Bagarus in exchange for Tom Farmer and Ralph Ruthstrom. Bagarus appeared in only two games for Los Angeles before later returning to Washington, limiting the Rams' realized value from the transaction. That outcome supports a C+ grade for Los Angeles Rams within the final Washington Redskins Win verdict. The result is best measured by the contribution that followed the transaction, including playing time, starting value, and any draft asset that remained under the club's control.
Washington Commanders Return
Washington acquired Tom Farmer and Ralph Ruthstrom. Farmer immediately played ten games with six starts, produced 166 scrimmage yards, and intercepted six passes, while Ruthstrom added two appearances. Farmer's two-way contribution made Washington's return the more valuable side. That outcome supports a B grade for Washington Commanders within the final Washington Redskins Win verdict. This side is graded by the same standard: tangible production and retained value count more heavily than opportunity alone, especially when the original price was modest.
Value in Hindsight
The decisive point is the gap in realized value after the deal. One side turned its return into more useful starts, production, or durable roster value, while the other received a shorter or less productive outcome. The difference is meaningful enough to support a winner without overstating the importance of a transaction that was often built around modest assets.
Final Verdict
The final call is Washington Redskins Win. Los Angeles Rams earns C+, and Washington Commanders earns B. Those grades reflect the supported package and the relative football value each franchise realized after the exchange, while keeping the scale of the transaction in proper historical context.