The Early Trade Rumor Mill

[RubeBaker]

After a couple of so-so markets the last couple of years, this year looks like it could really be something.

-Mark Texieira name is one of the hottest out there, as Texas looks like it may try and rebuild.

-BJ Upton still does not have a permanent home, but management was impressed early on with his performance in centerfield. That would make the speedy Rocco Baldelli expendable in center.

-With Bruce McCann already an established star at catcher, so the talented rookie Jarrod Saltalamacchia may be tradable.

Any other names floating around?

[GrandSlam]

After a couple of so-so markets the last couple of years, this year looks like it could really be something.

-Mark Texieira name is one of the hottest out there, as Texas looks like it may try and rebuild.

-BJ Upton still does not have a permanent home, but management was impressed early on with his performance in centerfield. That would make the speedy Rocco Baldelli expendable in center.

-With Bruce McCann already an established star at catcher, so the talented rookie Jarrod Saltalamacchia may be tradable.

Any other names floating around?

You mean Brian McCann lol

[oaklandman666]

I've also Heard Dunn and Griffey. I seriously doubt Griffey, but Mabye Dunn. I would think, If Andruw Jones leaves, having Thorman move to the outfield, then having Saltalamacchia playing 1st.

[SteveNYY]

i dont see why texas doesnt keep teixera and get some pitching! they could be a good team if they had a freakin pitching staff

[natsnsoxfan]

i dont see why texas doesnt keep teixera and get some pitching! they could be a good team if they had a freakin pitching staff

The quickest and easiest way to get pitching at this point it to trade Texeira, thats the logic with trading him.

There have been rumors with Buerhle and Dye that I know of.

Interesting link on the topic of trade rumors.....

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/mlb_experts/post/Five-and-Fly-Something-gained-in-the-translatio?urn=mlb,36247

[ChrisLDuncan]

White Sox are looking to deal...also the D-Train may be pulling in the Bronx, but I doubt it. Also Miguel Cabrera could be headed to SoCal.

[natsnsoxfan]

I don't think the Yankees have the ammo to pull off a deal for D-Train. Probably if they gave up Hughes but that would go completely against what they've been saying they want to do now.

I could definately envision Miguel Cabrera going to the Dodgers or Angels. They both have the prospects to do it and would probably be willing to trade those prospects. I think it would be more likely that he go to the Dodgers because they could probably get Andy LaRoche in the deal and make him the new starter at 3B.

[monkey333]

White Sox are looking to deal...also the D-Train may be pulling in the Bronx, but I doubt it. Also Miguel Cabrera could be headed to SoCal.
Pass. He's not as good as he'd cost prospects wise IMHO. The Sox' Wily Mo Pena is also on block apparantly.

[RubeBaker]

You mean Brian McCann lol

Yeah. D'oh.

On the subject of Griffey/Dunn, I would thing Griffey is more likely to be traded. Dunn is younger, he has tons more power, and hopefully no one will look at his OBP and make a move for him. Plus, Griffey is such a liability on defense anymore. He's lost a lot of speed, so even the Reds have moved him from center field to right field. I could see him DH in the AL.

Do we dare throw Dontrelle Willis' name out there again? His name is cropping up again, but then again he's supposedly been on and off the trading block the last couple of years.

I have also heard that Michael Barrett has been annoying more of his pitchers lately, and you gotta wonder if the Cubs would try to deal him to get the bad blood out of the clubhouse.

The Phillies need some pitching help, and maybe they can convince someone that Lieber is worth an ok reliever.

The way things are shaping up, this could easily be one of the best mid-season markets in some time.

[Zito75]

Here's my favorite scenerio: Yanks trade A-Rod + prospect to the Cubs for Zambrano and Ramirez. I know the Yanks don't have a super deep farm system, but they should be able to throw something in... Plus, the salaries will end up being a wash in the end. (or close to it anyway)

[TheKingofKings]

I wrote an interesting article on "The Market" on my blog:

http://allswhiteandblue.blogspot.com/

[Francoeurstein]

-With Bruce McCann
?




You really do have a D+ in stats :rofl:

[KHenry14]

The Giants will be floating Noah Lowry on the market. A gutty lefty with a nasty change is mana from heaven to a lot of GM's. Texiera would have been a good fit for the Giants as they need a 1B, but since Mark has decreed he'll only go to a right coast team, so much for that plan.

Anyway, any other good 1B on the market from teams who need pitching???

[SamtheBravesFan]

It would be a mistake of the highest proportions to trade Saltalamacchia without getting top-notch talent in return. I mean TOP notch talent. One that will stabilize the Braves' pitching staff right now and for the years to come. I don't want the Braves to be ridiculed for trading a top prospect in a panicky move and getting essentially nothing in return. Len Barker, anyone?

[StanTheMan]

The quite talks in St. Louis of dealing Scott Rolen to a California team (Dodgers, mostly) have now become loud enough to have it mentioned in Sports Illustrated twice in the last three weeks. He is owed 10 mil a year for 4 more years on a back-end heavy contract, and may be less attractive because of it..... His early sturggles certainly aren't helping, although he has awakened at the plate in the last three weeks, and is still the best defensive 3B in the NL (maybe in all of baseball). Doubt it? He's the only remaining 3B without an error this season and has a closet full of Gold Gloves).

I'm taking Buerle talks with a grain of salt... as he is a free agent after this season....

Cabrera might be a hotter name than even Teixiera, imo... as Miguel has two years left on a deal before free agency hits... and he's a stud.

[ChrisLDuncan]

I don't think the Yankees have the ammo to pull off a deal for D-Train. Probably if they gave up Hughes but that would go completely against what they've been saying they want to do now.

I could definately envision Miguel Cabrera going to the Dodgers or Angels. They both have the prospects to do it and would probably be willing to trade those prospects. I think it would be more likely that he go to the Dodgers because they could probably get Andy LaRoche in the deal and make him the new starter at 3B.

The Yanks have more than enough to acquire the D-Train...and Andy LaRoche in a deal for Miguel Cabrera? That'd be dumb on the Marlins part...they're not that dumb.

Pass. He's not as good as he'd cost prospects wise IMHO. The Sox' Wily Mo Pena is also on block apparantly.


Ehh if we can get him cheap (Melky, Proctor, Farnsworth, and a low level prospect) I say do it...but you're right he'll probably cost a lot more than he's worth to get. If so I say no way.

[skeletor]

After a couple of so-so markets the last couple of years, this year looks like it could really be something.

-Mark Texieira name is one of the hottest out there, as Texas looks like it may try and rebuild.

-BJ Upton still does not have a permanent home, but management was impressed early on with his performance in centerfield. That would make the speedy Rocco Baldelli expendable in center.

-With Bruce McCann already an established star at catcher, so the talented rookie Jarrod Saltalamacchia may be tradable.

Any other names floating around?

Well, the Tigers have some players to deal..both in the show, & the farm..

Maroth is available..as well as Nate Robinson.....Also Monroe and Casey
and chris sheleton at AAA Toledo......we'll see what the Tigers will do..

[ChrisLDuncan]

Elijah Dukes IMO will definately be dealt, the D-Rays have a lot of OFs and they look like they want to get rid of some of them.

[redlegsfan21]

Yeah. D'oh.

On the subject of Griffey/Dunn, I would thing Griffey is more likely to be traded. Dunn is younger, he has tons more power, and hopefully no one will look at his OBP and make a move for him. Plus, Griffey is such a liability on defense anymore. He's lost a lot of speed, so even the Reds have moved him from center field to right field. I could see him DH in the AL.

Dunn is more likely to leave. Taking Griffey out of the line-up hurts more than Dunn. Plus, Griffey definitely has more jersey sales for the Reds than Dunn and many of the fans don't like Dunn. From a revenue and salary issue, Dunn is the candidate that will leave. Griffey would be better in the field also. The only reason he is in rightfield is because the Reds are trying to save his legs so that he will go after less balls. Griffey still is a great, great outfielder.

http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/media/player/mp_tpl.jsp?w_id=566289&w=mms%3A//a1503.v108692.c10869.g.vm.akamaistream.net/7/1503/10869/v0001/mlb.download.akamai.com/10869/2007/open/tp/archive04/041707_milcin_griffey_def_tp_350.wmv&pid=mlb_tp&gid=2007/04/17/milmlb-cinmlb-1&mid=200704171915556&cid=mlb&fid=mlb_tp400&v=2&mType=w&urlstr=&mUrl=&type=v_free&_mp=1
http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/media/player/mp_tpl.jsp?w_id=569978&w=mms%3A//a1503.v108692.c10869.g.vm.akamaistream.net/7/1503/10869/v0001/mlb.download.akamai.com/10869/2007/open/tp/archive05/050507_colcin_griffey_catch_tp_350.wmv&pid=mlb_tp&gid=2007/05/05/colmlb-cinmlb-1&mid=200705051948500&cid=mlb&fid=mlb_tp400&v=2&mType=w&urlstr=&mUrl=&type=v_free&_mp=1
http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/media/player/mp_tpl.jsp?w_id=573316&w=mms%3A//a1503.v108692.c10869.g.vm.akamaistream.net/7/1503/10869/v0001/mlb.download.akamai.com/10869/2007/open/tp/archive05/052207_wascin_griffey_def_tp_350.wmv&pid=mlb_tp&gid=2007/05/22/wasmlb-cinmlb-1&mid=200705221979751&cid=mlb&fid=mlb_tp400&v=2&mType=w&urlstr=&mUrl=&type=v_free&_mp=1

[slugger33]

I think Dunn would be a good fit with the Twins as a DH.

[ChrisLDuncan]

I think Dunn would be a good fit with the Twins as a DH.

Really I'd think he'd fit the Angels the best...I would say that if the Angles get Adam Dunn they'll probably be my favs for the title, that and provided that their pitching starts pitching like they should.

[RubeBaker]

You really do have a D+ in stats :rofl:

Oddly enough, I did do well in spelling bees though.


From ChrisLDuncan:
Elijah Dukes IMO will definately be dealt, the D-Rays have a lot of OFs and they look like they want to get rid of some of them.

But after he threatend to kill his wife? After a 17 year old is claiming he's the father of her baby? After he's been suspended or 3 times for fighting this year? After refusing to leave the bench after one of his ejections? After he said he'd consider quitting baseball after his latest suspension? The guy doesn't just have character issues, he has full-blown mental issues. I don't know how many other teams would want to touch this guy. Like I said, put Upton in center, and deal the overrated Baldelli while he still has value.

[ChrisLDuncan]

But after he threatend to kill his wife? After a 17 year old is claiming he's the father of her baby? After he's been suspended or 3 times for fighting this year? After refusing to leave the bench after one of his ejections? After he said he'd consider quitting baseball after his latest suspension? The guy doesn't just have character issues, he has full-blown mental issues. I don't know how many other teams would want to touch this guy. Like I said, put Upton in center, and deal the overrated Baldelli while he still has value.

You might be able to get Dukes cheap...it's a high risk high reward type of deal.

[redlegsfan21]

A name that really hasn't gotten much attention is Kyle Lohse. Teams looking for starting pitching may look at Kyle Lohse and I think the Reds would be willing to part with him and bring in Bobby Livingston. Lohse would be a rent-a-player though.

[Dalkowski110]

If Lastings Milledge comes off the DL and plays well, I can see PR issues and problems related to his personal life/media pressure forcing him out of New York.

[natsnsoxfan]

Elijah Dukes IMO will definately be dealt, the D-Rays have a lot of OFs and they look like they want to get rid of some of them.

Jim Bowden has a history of dealing for troubled players and them getting by on some extent plus the Nationals have a real need in CF and he would be a perfect for them their.

The Yanks have more than enough to acquire the D-Train...and Andy LaRoche in a deal for Miguel Cabrera? That'd be dumb on the Marlins part...they're not that dumb.

I don't think the Marlins wouldn't be interested in anything the Yankees would offer besides Hughes and maybe Clippard. I was not saying LaRoche for Cabrera straight up but he would almost certainly be in the deal because he is a top prospect 3rd basemen.

[monkey333]

I don't think the Marlins wouldn't be interested in anything the Yankees would offer besides Hughes and maybe Clippard.
You don't think they wouldn't, doesn't that mean you do think they would? :D There are other gems in the farm that would grab the Fins' attention way before Clippard.

If Lastings Milledge comes off the DL and plays well, I can see PR issues and problems related to his personal life/media pressure forcing him out of New York.
What kind of issues has he had? I assume it would be starting pitching and bullpen help the Mets are looking for? I'd like to ditch some excess starting for him, he always seemed like a spunky kid. Too bad it's doubtful on a Mets-Yankees trade.

[ChrisLDuncan]

Thanks for holding down the farm Monkey...there are plenty of awesome arms in the system, also a great young RF too....but no way would I deal any of those guys.

[RubeBaker]

Thanks for holding down the farm Monkey...there are plenty of awesome arms in the system, also a great young RF too....but no way would I deal any of those guys.

I believe the RF you're referring to is Kevin Thompson? But there is Eric Duncan at third base. He's been up and down for them, and he has been struggling this year, but other teams may be interested because he's still considered a good prospect.



What kind of issues has he had? I assume it would be starting pitching and bullpen help the Mets are looking for? I'd like to ditch some excess starting for him, he always seemed like a spunky kid. Too bad it's doubtful on a Mets-Yankees trade.

Well, he did put out a rap CD that nobody in the organization's happy with. From what I've seen of him, he comes off as a bit cocky. The Mets love something about him, but I haven't seen it yet.

[monkey333]

I believe the RF you're referring to is Kevin Thompson? But there is Eric Duncan at third base. He's been up and down for them, and he has been struggling this year, but other teams may be interested because he's still considered a good prospect..
He's referring to Tabata. Kevin Thompson is like 27 or 28, not really a prospect anymore. E-Dunc is at 1st now and can't stay healthy.

[-Kyle-]

Ehh if we can get him cheap (Melky, Proctor, Farnsworth, and a low level prospect) I say do it...but you're right he'll probably cost a lot more than he's worth to get. If so I say no way.

Heck I'd make that deal in a second. I would even swap out Melky and the low level prospect for someone like Mark Melacon or Chirs Garcia. The Sox dont really need Pena now I think. The deal would never happen anyways, because they are in the same division.

[2Chance]

What I think is really odd is the number of teams (or maybe it's the fans, or the media outlets) that are floating names out there, as in "We're willing to get rid of so-and-so," but not being so specific as to what they are looking for ("and the winner of the so-and-so sweepstakes will be sending us a lefty starter and prospects.")

[ChrisLDuncan]

Heck I'd make that deal in a second. I would even swap out Melky and the low level prospect for someone like Mark Melacon or Chirs Garcia. The Sox dont really need Pena now I think. The deal would never happen anyways, because they are in the same division.

I probbaly would too...Melky's a nessecary player for the Yankees, I'd be nice if we could deal Damon.

[sanket]

Ok, why the heck would we go after Dontrelle Willis?? We don't need starting pitching. Look at who we have and then tell me we need starting pitching.

Chien Ming Wang
Andy Pettitte
Roger Clemens
Mike Mussina
Phil Hughes
Jeff Karstens
Kei Igawa
Darrell Rasner
Tyler Clippard

That's NINE starting pitchers. I don't know about you guys, but I'd hate to have ten starters on my team. We don't even need him for the future. He's our future rotation.

Chien Ming Wang
Jeff Karstens
Phil Hughes
Kei Igawa
Tyler Clippard

That's not that bad, who needs Dontrelle Willis?

Oh, by the way, there's no chance that we'd trade Melky Cabrera, it's just stupid. This guy is a great hitter if he's playing everyday.

[-Kyle-]

Oh, by the way, there's no chance that we'd trade Melky Cabrera, it's just stupid. This guy is a great hitter if he's playing everyday.
His main strength is getting on base, he doesn't have that much power and simply not a good enough hitter to play RF. In CF I think he is passable, because he's a great fielder. I think he's a good young player, but not with a ton of upside.

[sanket]

He'll be our everyday centerfielder in 2009 when Damon is out of here. Cabrera I think can hit nearly .300 in a season and get on base at nearly .400. He's got good speed and can bunt pretty well too. The only problem is he doesn't hit with runners in scoring position (only .200 with RISP this season). He doesn't play right field, by the way.

[Mariano_Rivera]

His main strength is getting on base, he doesn't have that much power and simply not a good enough hitter to play RF. In CF I think he is passable, because he's a great fielder. I think he's a good young player, but not with a ton of upside.

Last year I made a post where I showed that Cabrera was actually off to a better start than Carlos Beltran, Alfonso Soriano, or Johnny Damon (I also looked at Andruw Jones but he started off better than Cabrera).

[natsnsoxfan]

Cabrera is a really good 4th outfielder and a marginal starter. He doesn't hit the ball with much authority or power, although he is a well above average defender.

[NYMets523]

Well, he did put out a rap CD that nobody in the organization's happy with. From what I've seen of him, he comes off as a bit cocky. The Mets love something about him, but I haven't seen it yet.

During ST he shaped up a lot. The rap album issue was overplayed in the media. He and Minaya chatted about it and its resolved now.

[GotMelk?]

According to WFAN NY Ken Griffey will be traded by the end of the week to either Boston, The Yankees, or Alanta.
I hope he goes to Alanta.

[-Kyle-]

Last year I made a post where I showed that Cabrera was actually off to a better start than Carlos Beltran, Alfonso Soriano, or Johnny Damon (I also looked at Andruw Jones but he started off better than Cabrera).

Really? :noidea Craig Wilson started out better than Nick Johnson, but I'd rather have Johnson right now...I think good starts by players are usually a good sign, but I don't think that Cabrera will become as good as Soriano or Beltran. I see Melky peaking out at .290/.390/.440, which is pretty dang good for a great fielding CF.

[-Kyle-]

According to WFAN NY Ken Griffey will be traded by the end of the week to either Boston, The Yankees, or Alanta.
I hope he goes to Alanta.

Me too. :highfive:

[redlegsfan21]

According to WFAN NY Ken Griffey will be traded by the end of the week to either Boston, The Yankees, or Alanta.
I hope he goes to Alanta.

Nope, Cincinnati has an investment that totally counts on Junior being in Cincinnati.

A. He gives out our line-up
B. We have a HR tracker in between our Smoke Stacks
C. The only reason Reds fans come to games are to see Homer Bailey and Ken Griffey, Jr.

Photo A
http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070610/capt.39bb1f10c61e4b56a506b4ef3274f6ea.indians_reds _baseball_csb110.jpg
Photo B
"I can't find one"
Photo C
"Really can't be photographed"

[John Shoemaker]

In addition to all that Ken Griffey, Jr. may be the best player ever to put on a reds uniform.

[-Kyle-]

In addition to all that Ken Griffey, Jr. may be the best player ever to put on a reds uniform.

ehhh...I'd say Frank Robinson

[The Great Nom]

He'll be our everyday centerfielder in 2009 when Damon is out of here. Cabrera I think can hit nearly .300 in a season and get on base at nearly .400.

What makes you think that, the fact that he's never come close to hitting .300 or the fact that he's never come close to putting up a .400 OBP? Never even put up a .400 slugging percentage.

Melky's not shown himself to be anything more than a 4th outfielder.

He's not going to go into a season as a regular starter for a team with a 220 million dollar payroll unless his ability to hit drastically improves.

[redlegsfan21]

Just wanted to note that the Reds will not trade an outfielder until Ryan Freel fully recovers from his injury. The Reds currently have 6 OFs on the 40-man. Adam Dunn, Ken Griffey, Josh Hamilton, Norris Hopper, Ryan Freel (15-day DL), Chris Dickerson (AAA, .231 BA, .373 SLG). Dewayne Wise was on the roster earlier when both Hamilton and Freel were on the DL but is currently off the 40-man and batting .256 in AAA. Hopper can play everyday but without a decent 4th OF to come, the Reds wouldn't trade an OF. If the Reds do trade an outfielder, it probably means that 1B Jeff Conine (unlikely) would play or the Reds would call up 1B Joey Votto (also plays LF).

[NYMets523]

Nope, Cincinnati has an investment that totally counts on Junior being in Cincinnati.

A. He gives out our line-up
B. We have a HR tracker in between our Smoke Stacks
C. The only reason Reds fans come to games are to see Homer Bailey and Ken Griffey, Jr.

I'm sorry, but those are some ridiculous reasons as to why the Reds have an "investment" in Griffey. The Reds are going no where fast and probably won't be playoff potential until after Griffey retires. Teams would trade a lot for him so why would Cincinnati pass on getting a few guys for the future?

[ChrisLDuncan]

Heard that Fernando Martinez may be dealt for Mark Buherle or another deal for a SP.

[NYMets523]

Heard that Fernando Martinez may be dealt for Mark Buherle or another deal for a SP.

I haven't heard that and it's not going to happen. Buehrle is a "rent-a-player" and Minaya will never do those. He learned his lesson when he traded Grady Sizemore, Cliff Lee, and Brandon Phillips for Bartolo Colon.

I would expect Jorge Sosa, Aaron Heilman, and Guillermo Mota to be traded though. Sosa's stock is very high right now, they've wanted to move Heilman for years, and they have no need for Mota since Burgos is a lot better.

[ChrisLDuncan]

I haven't heard that and it's not going to happen. Buehrle is a "rent-a-player" and Minaya will never do those. He learned his lesson when he traded Grady Sizemore, Cliff Lee, and Brandon Phillips for Bartolo Colon.

I would expect Jorge Sosa, Aaron Heilman, and Guillermo Mota to be traded though. Sosa's stock is very high right now, they've wanted to move Heilman for years, and they have no need for Mota since Burgos is a lot better.

Especially considering that Martinez has a lot of potential

[John Shoemaker]

ehhh...I'd say Frank Robinson

You may be right - they're both great players and the Reds traded Robinson. I hope they don't make the same mistake with Griffey.

[JRJohnson6]

I would be very surprised to see Griff on the move from Cincy. We sometimes forget that baseball is a business, and the Reds aren't going to trade away their most popular player. They want his 600th to come in a Reds uniform. Also, doesn't he have a no trade clause? Just wondering. On the other hand, from what I am hearing, Reds fans would love to get rid of Adam Dunn. This guy has DH written all over him. He's not that good of an OF, and really isn't that great of a hitter. But, for a AL team, he may be exactly what they are looking for. I'm hearing the Angels are interested. Any one else know?

[The Great Nom]

Heard that Fernando Martinez may be dealt for Mark Buherle or another deal for a SP.

Ha. He's about the last person in the Met franchise who'll be traded. It would also ruin Minaya's credibility in signing latin players if he went and traded away the kid he just signed 2 years ago.

If a deal gets done for Buerhle, it'll probably be centered around Milledge.

[2Chance]

originally posted by JRJohnson6
I would be very surprised to see Griff on the move from Cincy. We sometimes forget that baseball is a business, and the Reds aren't going to trade away their most popular player. They want his 600th to come in a Reds uniform. Also, doesn't he have a no trade clause? Just wondering.

On the other hand, from what I am hearing, Reds fans would love to get rid of Adam Dunn. This guy has DH written all over him. He's not that good of an OF, and really isn't that great of a hitter. But, for a AL team, he may be exactly what they are looking for. I'm hearing the Angels are interested. Any one else know?
You're right on the money with what we hear.

#1, Griffey isn't going anywhere.
He is the Cincinnati Kid, and despite his history of injury, very popular in Cincy. (Subject to change if he goes down for the season or something like that.) Yes, he's nearing a milestone which the Reds wouldn't miss for anything. And yes, he has the no-trade clause. Jim Bowden tried at one point to get around that by working out a deal with San Diego before taking it to Junior, and the scene outside his office looked something like this:

http://mrzine.monthlyreview.org/frankenstein_villagers488.jpg

You can find Bowden in our nation's capital, at the helm of a last place team.

#2. Those same people outside Bowden's door are now chanting "Trade Adam Dunn!"
Their spokespersons say he's got value and could fetch something worthwhile.

They don't know exactly WHAT he will fetch...maybe pitching? Yeah, maybe, but WHO, exactly? Anybody in the AL with decent pitchers isn't willing to trade them for a DH. C'mon, people! You think the Halos would give the Reds Frankie Rodriguez for him? THAT is what they really need.

They also ignore the fact that Dunn has been improving constantly since coming into the league. (Well, last year was down, but this year is way up, batting .275 thus far.) Dunn plays in 160 games a year, will hit 30-40 homers (maybe more) and drive in near 100, and is good to have in the clubhouse. What else does that angry mob want?

Well, it would be nice if they could bring him in out of left field to close out some games.

[Zagi-CRO]

According to one MLB team executive, the Mets would be "heavily involved" if the Cubs look to trade Zambrano.

[Mariano_Rivera]

Really? :noidea Craig Wilson started out better than Nick Johnson, but I'd rather have Johnson right now...I think good starts by players are usually a good sign, but I don't think that Cabrera will become as good as Soriano or Beltran. I see Melky peaking out at .290/.390/.440, which is pretty dang good for a great fielding CF.

I don't think its fair to say that he has no chance of being anything more than a solid average everyday player though when he's started off better than those guys. I don't think he will be that good either but everybody seems to be writing him off as nothing special. I wouldn't be surprised to see him bat .290/.390/.440 which as as you said is very good for a good fielding center-fielder

[Mariano_Rivera]

What makes you think that, the fact that he's never come close to hitting .300 or the fact that he's never come close to putting up a .400 OBP? Never even put up a .400 slugging percentage.

Melky's not shown himself to be anything more than a 4th outfielder.

He's not going to go into a season as a regular starter for a team with a 220 million dollar payroll unless his ability to hit drastically improves.

He said in 2009, not now. He's not that good yet. He's only 22 right? How many players bat .300 with a .400 OBP at age 22?

[Erik Bedard]

A trade for Mark Teixeira could be the thing the O's need to save the franchise in the eyes of the fans.

[Mariano_Rivera]

A trade for Mark Teixeira could be the thing the O's need to save the franchise in the eyes of the fans.

Right now the Orioles are on pace for 68 wins. Even if Texiera has a MVP type season he can only add about 10 wins. The Orioles still would be nowhere near playoff contention

[redlegsfan21]

I'm sorry, but those are some ridiculous reasons as to why the Reds have an "investment" in Griffey. The Reds are going no where fast and probably won't be playoff potential until after Griffey retires. Teams would trade a lot for him so why would Cincinnati pass on getting a few guys for the future?

I know, I just thought it was funny. Anyways, the truth is that the Reds could be going somewhere if Eddie Guardado was healthy. The Reds bullpen has blown 15 wins after the 7th. Lets, say the Reds win 10 of those games with Weathers in the 8th and Guardado in the 9th. The Reds would only be 1.5 games behind the Brewers. And guess what, Everyday Eddie is coming (see signature). If we had a bullpen like the Texas Rangers, we would only be leading the division.

[redlegsfan21]

I would be very surprised to see Griff on the move from Cincy. We sometimes forget that baseball is a business, and the Reds aren't going to trade away their most popular player. They want his 600th to come in a Reds uniform. Also, doesn't he have a no trade clause? Just wondering. On the other hand, from what I am hearing, Reds fans would love to get rid of Adam Dunn. This guy has DH written all over him. He's not that good of an OF, and really isn't that great of a hitter. But, for a AL team, he may be exactly what they are looking for. I'm hearing the Angels are interested. Any one else know?

The thing with fans is that they are stupid. Dunn is batting .275 and leads the club with 19 HRs and 46 RBIs. And more than half of his hits are singles.

[NYMets523]

I know, I just thought it was funny. Anyways, the truth is that the Reds could be going somewhere if Eddie Guardado was healthy. The Reds bullpen has blown 15 wins after the 7th. Lets, say the Reds win 10 of those games with Weathers in the 8th and Guardado in the 9th. The Reds would only be 1.5 games behind the Brewers. And guess what, Everyday Eddie is coming (see signature). If we had a bullpen like the Texas Rangers, we would only be leading the division.

Is it true the Reds are interested in Schoeneweis?

[ChrisLDuncan]

Tex is also on the block if the Rangers are smart they'll trade him to the highest bidder, they aren't in contention they won't be next season and they won't resign him. I say deal him to the Angels (I doubt they'll trade him with in the division, but the Angels need him and they have a lot to offer), Dodgers (they have a deep farm and need a big bat), the Padres (need a bat but don't have a lot to offer), or another team that is looking for a big time 1Bman to put them over the edge and win the division.

[slugger33]

or another team that is looking for a big time 1Bman to put them over the edge and win the division.Maybe Tigers? Although they have Casey at first.

[-Kyle-]

I don't think its fair to say that he has no chance of being anything more than a solid average everyday player though when he's started off better than those guys. I don't think he will be that good either but everybody seems to be writing him off as nothing special. I wouldn't be surprised to see him bat .290/.390/.440 which as as you said is very good for a good fielding center-fielder

I think that many people were writing him off because of what scouts saw in him, which was a little guy with some polished discipline and some speed but with little power. I see him as similar to Johnny Damon, but with a little less speed and lot less power, and a better arm. Not that bad, definitly above average.

[redlegsfan21]

Is it true the Reds are interested in Schoeneweis?

Last year.

[redlegsfan21]

Oh, I forgot. Another reason Griffey can't be traded yet is the big celebration in Seattle Friday. What would party be without the Kid himself.

[NYMets523]

Then there's from Saturday to July 31.

[RubeBaker]

Just heard on ESPN today that the Braves have been showing interest in Griffey. Though with Andruw Jones, Jeff Franceour, and Matt Diaz, I can't imagine there's any truth to this.

[natsnsoxfan]

Just heard on ESPN today that the Braves have been showing interest in Griffey. Though with Andruw Jones, Jeff Franceour, and Matt Diaz, I can't imagine there's any truth to this.

Im sure that Braves would LOVE to replace Matt Diaz with Griffey Jr. If you're thinking that Diaz is some top prospect you're wrong, the guy is like 28 or 29 I think and is basically a platoon player. Although there have been talks of them putting Salty in LF. But if it between Griffey and Diaz you can be damn sure they'd want Griffey instead.

[NYMets523]

Jones is in his contract year and he's not making a strong case that he's worth the money to stay so getting Griffey is not out of the question for Atlanta. I hope they don't though since I couldn't like Griffey as much.

[AznInvasion]

Willie Harris and Diaz have been platooning in LF. Diaz isn't a stud but can be quite productive at times. I doubt we'll get Griffey as well. I don't know who we would trade for Griffey anyway.

[redlegsfan21]

Griffey is a rightfielder, not a centerfielder or leftfielder.

[sds416]

I know, I just thought it was funny. Anyways, the truth is that the Reds could be going somewhere if Eddie Guardado was healthy. The Reds bullpen has blown 15 wins after the 7th. Lets, say the Reds win 10 of those games with Weathers in the 8th and Guardado in the 9th. The Reds would only be 1.5 games behind the Brewers. And guess what, Everyday Eddie is coming (see signature). If we had a bullpen like the Texas Rangers, we would only be leading the division.

I saw Guardado twice this past weekend pitching for Louisville on his rehab assignment. If you are depending on him to be your 9th inning savior, forget it. One of the worst offenses in AAA, Rochester, had a field day with him on Sunday, and he struggled to close it out on Friday as well. He quite frankly looked awful.

Sunday's line: 1/3 of an inning, 3 hits, 2 ER, 1 walk, 1 HR allowed (to a guy hitting a whopping .067 after a month of AAA action).

Friday's line is more impressive, 1 inning, 1 walk, 1 HBP, but he threw a ton of pitches and was barely effective.

If that's your closer, go ahead and move your hot commodities, Dunn and Griffey, and start stockpiling some arms to compliment Homer Bailey, because your season is officially over.

[John Shoemaker]

I hope Griffey stays in Cincinnati if he wants to or goes to whatever team he wants to. I think he's earned that.

[redlegsfan21]

I saw Guardado twice this past weekend pitching for Louisville on his rehab assignment. If you are depending on him to be your 9th inning savior, forget it. One of the worst offenses in AAA, Rochester, had a field day with him on Sunday, and he struggled to close it out on Friday as well. He quite frankly looked awful.

Sunday's line: 1/3 of an inning, 3 hits, 2 ER, 1 walk, 1 HR allowed (to a guy hitting a whopping .067 after a month of AAA action).

Friday's line is more impressive, 1 inning, 1 walk, 1 HBP, but he threw a ton of pitches and was barely effective.

If that's your closer, go ahead and move your hot commodities, Dunn and Griffey, and start stockpiling some arms to compliment Homer Bailey, because your season is officially over.

Way better than some of the players currently in the bullpen. We just need a guy for the 8th inning (not give up more than 4 runs like the current team).

[redlegsfan21]

"OK, we've seen 3 pitchers that have no right to being in the big leagues."
-Marty Brennaman

No matter how bad Guardado does in Louisville, he's better than what we have. He is referring to Marcus McBeth, Jon Coutlangus, and Brad Salmon. How many have you heard of. I've bet you've heard of as many Eddie Guardado's as these 3.

[Zito75]

I haven't read this entire thread yet, but I did hear that Eric Gagne is probably getting dumped ASAP. Any guesses where he might end up?

[NYMets523]

My best guesses are Cleveland, Detroit, or Philadelphia. All of them have a weak bullpen and could use Gagne.

EDIT: Scratch that prediction. They are not among the 12 allowable teams Gagne can be traded to.

[2Chance]

I'll bet Gagne would prefer a situation with a contender compared to where he is now. Not saying the contenders want him, or would trade something the Rangers need for him (pitching).

[Zito75]

My best guesses are Cleveland, Detroit, or Philadelphia. All of them have a weak bullpen and could use Gagne.

EDIT: Scratch that prediction. They are not among the 12 allowable teams Gagne can be traded to.

Let me guess, the Mets ARE on the list...?

[NYMets523]

Let me guess, the Mets ARE on the list...?

If they are, I doubt they will go after him.

EDIT: They are on his list but I can't see it happening unless the bullpen implodes further or Wagner is out for an extended period of time.

[TheKingofKings]

I'll bet Gagne would prefer a situation with a contender compared to where he is now. Not saying the contenders want him, or would trade something the Rangers need for him (pitching).

He is likely to go to Motown...

[Erik Bedard]

Right now the Orioles are on pace for 68 wins. Even if Texiera has a MVP type season he can only add about 10 wins. The Orioles still would be nowhere near playoff contention

There are things more important than stats. And the O's are better than they've shown (though, admittedly, they are not a playoff team any more).

Tex is also on the block if the Rangers are smart they'll trade him to the highest bidder, they aren't in contention they won't be next season and they won't resign him. I say deal him to the Angels (I doubt they'll trade him with in the division, but the Angels need him and they have a lot to offer), Dodgers (they have a deep farm and need a big bat), the Padres (need a bat but don't have a lot to offer), or another team that is looking for a big time 1Bman to put them over the edge and win the division.

Teixeira says that he'll only go to the east coast. Of course, this only means anything if he has a no-trade clause, which I haven't been able to confirm.

He is likely to go to Motown...

Except that they aren't on his list.

[NYMets523]

Teixeira doesn't have a no-trade clause in his contract.

[Erik Bedard]

I haven't found anything that says he does or doesn't. Anybody else care to help out?

BTW, here's something for those of you counting the O's out of the Teixeira derby to consider:

The Orioles are considered the most likely landing spot for the Baltimore-area native. Teixeira told me this spring that being an Oriole would be "a dream come true," a comment that undoubtedly excited their star-centric owner Peter Angelos.

SOURCE (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/jon_heyman/05/25/scoop.friday/index.html)

[NYMets523]

This site has contracts for every team. Here's the one for the Rangers.

http://mlbcontracts.blogspot.com/2005/01/texas-rangers.html

Mark Teixeira 1b
2 years/$15.4M (2006-07), plus incentives

* re-signed 1/06
* 06:$6.4M, 07:$9M
* may earn $0.275M annually in award bonuses
o $0.1M for AL MVP
o $50,000 each for World Series MVP & All-Star selection
o $25,000 each for Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, LCS MVP
* 4 years/$9.5M (2002-05)
o $4.5M signing bonus (paid over 3 years)
o 02:$0.25M, 03:$0.75M, 04:$1.5M, 05:$2.5M
* drafted 2001 (1-5), signed major league contract 8/01
* agent: Scott Boras
* ML service: 4.000

[Erik Bedard]

OK, I see.

[slugger33]

He is likely to go to Motown...
There is now rumors of him becoming a Yankee.

[RubeBaker]

Sorry, I've been away, but it looks like my guess on Michael Barrett came true. He's in a Padres uniform now, though the Cubs really got the short end of the stick on this one.

[Spieluhr]

Rumor is Jacque Jones has been traded to Florida for an infield rake. This is likely because the Cubs have to make a move today to make room for another pitcher, either a Jacque trade or Dempster to the DL.

[skeletor]

He is likely to go to Motown...

I'm open for him to come to Detroit...as long as we don't give them
a blue chip prospect..No doubt, something is brewing..as Todd Jones
had another melt down....On the flip, interest among some other teams
is high...as the Rangers will move a few players before the dead line
as will the SOX..

I guess it all boils down to how bad a team wants him, and what exactly
are they willing to part with..

[AznInvasion]

Milton Bradley traded to Padres, Padres will send a minor league pitcher to OAK.

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ap-padres-bradley&prov=ap&type=lgns

[Zito75]

Milton Bradley traded to Padres, Padres will send a minor league pitcher to OAK.

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ap-padres-bradley&prov=ap&type=lgns

Getting anything for Bradley is good at this point.