Trade Deadline Random Thoughts/Rumors

[Warner2BruceTD]

Already giving up on Smoak?

He's in AAA.

[NAHSTE]

Already giving up on Smoak?

Already? He has had 1260 MLB plate appearances.

[Guest]

NEW YORK -- Two days before Tuesday's trading deadline, all appeared quiet on the Red Sox front, although one major league executive insisted Sunday night that the team is looking for a buyer for starting pitcher Josh Beckett.

"They're trying to dump him,'' the executive said, "but I don't think anyone would touch him without a big discount.''

"Taking Josh Beckett off this team is not necessarily improving things," Cherington said. "We need to add, we need to improve the rotation, if anything -- improve internally or add to the rotation. I think we're sort of stuck in neutral if we start taking guys out of the rotation that are good major league pitchers."

As a 10/5 player -- 10 years in the big leagues, at least five with the same team -- Beckett has the right to veto any deal.

The Red Sox also are shopping outfielder Ryan Sweeney, the source said.

Beckett, 5-9 with a 4.57 ERA in 17 starts this season, is scheduled to face Detroit ace Justin Verlander on Tuesday night in Fenway Park..

The Red Sox had a scout in Miami to watch Marlins right-hander Josh Johnson, who walked six against the Padres on Sunday afternoon, which did little to enhance his trade value.

Johnson, Matt Garza of the Cubs and James Shields of the Rays seem to be the best potential starters available in a deal, but it would appear that the Red Sox are not prepared to surrender the quality of prospects required to acquire Johnson, and Garza has a triceps issue that will prevent him from making another start before the deadline.

Johnson also has a history of past shoulder problems, and the last thing the Red Sox would seem to need is another high-priced veteran with health issues.

Manager Bobby Valentine, asked about the Red Sox's intentions before the deadline, said, "I think that this organization is in it to win it all the time. I don't think ownership and the front office is thinking anything other than, 'We've got a shot.'"

That would seem to rule out the Red Sox trading such players as Cody Ross, Kelly Shoppach or Matt Albers, who would all potentially have value to a contender. Cherington already has ruled out trading pitcher Jon Lester or outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury.

http://espn.go.com/boston/mlb/story/...p-josh-beckett

[Mogriffjr]

Just not understanding how Belt is hitting so poorly against RHP...and against LHP he's hit his 4 HR's this year and sporting a 900 OPS (albeit small sample size)...

[Rudi]

I hope the Reds don't give up much for Pierre. And by that I mean Corcino, Cingrani, and Hamilton better all not be involved in the deal.

Not worth giving up much of anything especially with the way the team is playing.

[NAHSTE]

I hope the Reds don't give up much for Pierre. And by that I mean Corcino, Cingrani, and Hamilton better all not be involved in the deal.

Unless Nick Sigona has replaced the entire Reds front office over night, I think you'll be ok.

[Warner2BruceTD]

I hope the Reds don't give up much for Pierre. And by that I mean Corcino, Cingrani, and Hamilton better all not be involved in the deal.

Not worth giving up much of anything especially with the way the team is playing.

I think it would be more along the lines of a prospect or two that isn't on the radar, or the old "future considerations and cash".

I think the Jonny Gomes deal from last year would be your template.

[Slateman]

Just not understanding how Belt is hitting so poorly against RHP...and against LHP he's hit his 4 HR's this year and sporting a 900 OPS (albeit small sample size)...

Maybe Belt isn't as good as previously believed

[NAHSTE]

Maybe Belt isn't as good as previously believed

Or maybe you can't get better at hitting LHP if you never get at bats vs LHP. Bochy jerking around his playing time for two years has fucked his development.

[Villain]

Or maybe you can't get better at hitting LHP if you never get at bats vs LHP. Bochy jerking around his playing time for two years has fucked his development.

Except that they're talking about how he's sucking against RHP...

[NAHSTE]

Except that they're talking about how he's sucking against RHP...

Ah I see. And Bochy fucking with his playing time doesn't affect his ability to hit RHP also? Can't make adjustments from the dugout, that's my only point here. He's gotten 480 career PA, not even a full season.

[Guest]

Phillies have faxed medical records for Blanton to the Orioles. They are also rumored to be looking at either Juan Pierre or Hunter Pence. Considering the Phillies want Jonathan Schoop, I'm not sure if Pence will happen, though a middle relief prospect could be enough for Blanton.

[EmpireWF]

I hope they send Pence there. Hate hoping he plays like shit in Philly. Go to Baltimore and wake up.

[Rudi]

Garza

[Obst]

Dom Brown on his way to join the Phillies right now. Victorino to Dodgers should be done very soon.