Trade talk

[Taras Bulba]

Molony (www.mlb.com) says Mariners have scouted Jennings.  Also mentions that Dodgers are now looking for a starter.  Hmmm.

[Limey]

Molony (www.mlb.com) says Mariners have scouted Jennings.

Well that should be the end of that, then.

[JimR]

Molony (www.mlb.com) says Mariners have scouted Jennings.  Also mentions that Dodgers are now looking for a starter.  Hmmm.

Tigers and Phillies have been following us, too. both need/want relievers.

[dirty steve]

Loretta continues to be a popular target of many clubs — the Yankees, Padres, Red Sox, Twins and Tigers are among the others showing interest.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7056962

[CarolinaStro]

Tigers and Phillies have been following us, too. both need/want relievers.

Phillies are supposedly after Lidge or Qualls with Houstonian Bourn on the table.

[VirtualBob]

Phillies are supposedly after Lidge or Qualls with Houstonian Bourn on the table.

The Bourn Conspiracy?  http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/rumors/post/Phils-give-Lidge-a-look?urn=mlb,40498

[Sleepy]

Bourn for Qualls seems like something Purpura would listen to.  Anyone have insight on Bourn?  From what I just read, he has great speed, a plus arm, but his offense has struggled.  However, he's improved his patience of late.  He seems like a good fit for the Astros, frankly.

[Zac D]

Bourn for Qualls seems like something Purpura would listen to.  Anyone have insight on Bourn?  From what I just read, he has great speed, a plus arm, but his offense has struggled.  However, he's improved his patience of late.  He seems like a good fit for the Astros, frankly.

If Willy Taveras had been a heralded prospect through his whole minor-league career, he might have looked something like Michael Bourn. Bourn has gotten on base at every level and does have the blistering speed to go with it, but hasn't shown much power (or potential for it).

[MusicMan]

According to Jayson Stark, via mlbtraderumors.com, the Astros are "yet to open shop on any of their relievers".

[Reuben]

According to Jayson Stark, via mlbtraderumors.com, the Astros are "yet to open shop on any of their relievers".

Yet, Footer says,

Purpura confirmed that the Astros have made trade proposals and have also received offers from other clubs...the Astros' biggest trading chips are Chad Qualls, Dan Wheeler and Brad Lidge. Lidge appears to be off the table, but the other two may be able to bring in quality players.

"It's a matter of what value can you get for the players you have, particularly players you have control over for more than a year. Those are valuable players. You're not going to just trade them for lesser players, just to make a deal. It's ridiculous."

The Link
So maybe what Stark meant was, The Astros have not agreed to give Lidge to the Yankees for nothing.

edit: forgot link

[JimR]

sorry, but Lidge should get more than an unproven prospect. some of y'all don't want me running your team.

[Navin R Johnson]

I watched Bourn for 3 years at UH.   The kid is Willie T fast, he is an absolutely fantastic fielder.   He played at MMPUS three times(college classic each Feb) and as a 18 yo freshman he made one of the better catches, running up Tal's Hill you will ever see.  He is PLUS PLUS defensive player, possesses Plus Plus Plus speed.      I know him and his parents, so I am obviously biased, that being said, I didnt expect him to advance in baseball this far this fast.

I would absolutely love to see him playing for the Astros, but considering what the Brewers just gave up for Linebrink, I would hope the Astros would get more than just Michael.    He would definitely, imo, be a great starting point.   Maybe MB and a fairly highly thought of A or AA pitcher.

   

[Jacksonian]

sorry, but Lidge should get more than an unproven prospect. some of y'all don't want me running your team.

What did Hun get for Wagner?

[Trey]

What did Hun get for Wagner?

Duckworth (who had been up and down from The Show at the time), Buchholtz (AA, IIRC), and I think someone else.

[Jacksonian]

Duckworth (who had been up and down from The Show at the time), Buchholtz (AA, IIRC), and I think someone else.

I know.  A swingman pitcher, a AA/AAA level top prospect (Buchholz), and A/AA level midling prospect (at the time of the trade), Zeke Astacio.  That was my point.  Hun couldn't get anything better than an unproven prospect and lesser others for Wagner (Buchholz was the centerpiece).  Purp's not going after a contract year player like Beltran so he won't get a high quality established player in any deal for Lidge.  That's just one reason he won't deal Lidge.

[Taras Bulba]

What did Hun get for Wagner?

Pettitte, Clemens, and Beltran.

[Limey]

What did Hun get for Wagner?

A notable jump in team IQ.

[mihoba]

A notable jump in team IQ.

The Hun also had Lidge waiting in the wings, quite unlike the current scenario.

[Astroholic]

The Hun also had Lidge waiting in the wings, quite unlike the current scenario.

Actually I think it was Dotel in that wing.

[Froback]

I know.  A swingman pitcher, a AA/AAA level top prospect (Buchholz), and A/AA level midling prospect (at the time of the trade), Zeke Astacio.  That was my point.  Hun couldn't get anything better than an unproven prospect and lesser others for Wagner (Buchholz was the centerpiece).  Purp's not going after a contract year player like Beltran so he won't get a high quality established player in any deal for Lidge.  That's just one reason he won't deal Lidge.

While I am sure you know, just thought I would point out Wagner was traded during the offseason and not at the deadline.  Your best chance to get more than you are giving up is at the deadline.  The real questions are can Tim find the "right" deal, and can he pull the trigger when he does?

BTW, I am not in the trade Lidge camp.  This was more in the area of any trade, not a Lidge trade.

[Gizzmonic]

Bourn for Qualls seems like something Purpura would listen to.  Anyone have insight on Bourn?  From what I just read, he has great speed, a plus arm, but his offense has struggled.  However, he's improved his patience of late.  He seems like a good fit for the Astros, frankly.

It sounds good to me...the Astros need a true CF to roam the expanses at MMPUS.  I wouldn't give up Lidge, but Qualls or Wheeler might do it.

[Jacksonian]

The Bourn Conspiracy?  http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/rumors/post/Phils-give-Lidge-a-look?urn=mlb,40498

Why deal for him at all?  I haven't followed Bourn, but from what I hear we already have him.  Josh Anderson.

[mihoba]

Why deal for him at all?  I haven't followed Bourn, but from what I hear we already have him.  Josh Anderson.

After watching the Phillies a few games, I'll bet Bourn is the speediest player in MLB right now. Is Anderson that fast?

[JimR]

After watching the Phillies a few games, I'll bet Bourn is the speediest player in MLB right now. Is Anderson that fast?

JA is fast but it is not a track meet. i'd like someone who can hit.

[Jacksonian]

JA is fast but it is not a track meet. i'd like someone who can hit.

And, Bourn's never shown to be any better with the bat than Anderson.

[Jacksonian]

After watching the Phillies a few games, I'll bet Bourn is the speediest player in MLB right now. Is Anderson that fast?

It's a confined space to patrol, not a track meet.  You just have to run fast enough to get the ball.  Anderson is very fast; fast enough to get the ball.

[MusicMan]

Do either of them actually know how to run the bases?  It's a talent distinctly lacking here in Houston.

[mihoba]

It's a confined space to patrol, not a track meet.  You just have to run fast enough to get the ball.  Anderson is very fast; fast enough to get the ball.

Or fast enough to beat out a routine grounder.

I don't know anything else about Bourn, like his arm or defense. I can see from his minor league seasons that he has struck out alot. Career minor league OBP of .372. I mentioned speed because he has stolen 163 bases in the minors, and was caught 28 times. 85% success. His speed disrupts everything.

He's 15-1 stealing for the Phillies.

[Jacksonian]

Do either of them actually know how to run the bases?  It's a talent distinctly lacking here in Houston.

Irrelevent.  Infliction rates of the 2007 Houston Astros baserunning skills via osmosis is impossible to predict.

[Jacksonian]

Or fast enough to beat out a routine grounder.

I don't know anything else about Bourn, like his arm or defense. I can see from his minor league seasons that he has struck out alot. Career minor league OBP of .372. I mentioned speed because he has stolen 163 bases in the minors, and was caught 28 times. 85% success. His speed disrupts everything.

He's 15-1 stealing for the Phillies.

Then Anderson's fast enough.

[mihoba]

Then Anderson's fast enough.

I just looked up Anderson's numbers. I'll shut up now.

(I had no idea he had that many SB's)

[Limey]

I just looked up Anderson's numbers. I'll shut up now.

(I had no idea he had that many SB's)

He's Wile E. Taveras on speed.

[Jacksonian]

I just looked up Anderson's numbers. I'll shut up now.

(I had no idea he had that many SB's)

Comparing stat for stat suggests Anderson might be marginally better than Bourn with the bat.

The Astros really have no need for Bourn, IMO.

[mihoba]

Comparing stat for stat suggests Anderson might be marginally better than Bourn with the bat.

The Astros really have no need for Bourn, IMO.

After further (sight unseen) research, I have to agree.

[Jacksonian]

After further (sight unseen) research, I have to agree.

They compare almost identically.  Ironically, Anderson was drafted just 4 picks after than Bourn.  I wouldn't be surprised if the Astros had intended to draft Bourn if he had fallen to them.  They had picked him, around 20th round, as a high school senior in 2000, I believe.

[Bob Sakamano]

After further (sight unseen) research, I have to agree.

I'm not sure. I've always heard plate discipline was an issue for Anderson, and his minor league OBP is consistently in the .330 range (except for the first part of 2004 in Lexington). Bourn's minor league OBP is .371, if I remember correctly. To me, that's a sizable difference. I'm not saying that's enough to make the trade worthwhile, but I'd say he's a more disciplined hitter.

That said, Anderson seems to have more extra-base potential, so maybe that evens things out.

[Navin R Johnson]

Bourn's arm is solid and more than adequate for CF.    He is a superb base runner, he isnt just a speed guy.    He is very smooth 1st the third which is one reason he gets an inordinate amount of triples.   He continued with the triple barrage in the minors racking up 36 in under 400 games.

FYI, he was drafted in the 19th round out of HS.

[Jacksonian]

I'm not sure. I've always heard plate discipline was an issue for Anderson, and his minor league OBP is consistently in the .330 range (except for the first part of 2004 in Lexington). Bourn's minor league OBP is .371, if I remember correctly. To me, that's a sizable difference. I'm not saying that's enough to make the trade worthwhile, but I'd say he's a more disciplined hitter.

That said, Anderson seems to have more extra-base potential, so maybe that evens things out.

His minor league OBP is .378.  But, it's bolstered by a career year in 04, his first full season, where he had a .433 OBP.

They're both gap-power, at most, hitters and Bourn's been more likely to take a walk while Anderson's been a little more likely to get a hit.  Not worth dealing for IMO.

[Navin R Johnson]

I havent seen JA play, but if he is good as Bourn, I wish he would have been called up instead of Lane.   

[Taras Bulba]

I havent seen JA play, but if he is good as Bourn, I wish he would have been called up instead of Lane.   

Could be that Lane is being put on display a little, in hopes of restoring value.  He looks pretty solid patrolling center and is, as we speak, swinging the bat fairly well.

[Jacksonian]

Could be that Lane is being put on display a little, in hopes of restoring value.  He looks pretty solid patrolling center and is, as we speak, swinging the bat fairly well.

My thought was that he'd impressed Purp enough with his hitting at RR to deserve another shot at getting back in the club's good graces.

[Limey]

My thought was that he'd impressed Purp enough with his hitting at RR to deserve another shot at getting back in the club's good graces.

That, and injuries to both a starting outfielder and a starting infielder.

[MusicMan]

My thought was that he'd impressed Purp enough with his hitting at RR to deserve another shot at getting back in the club's good graces.

40-man restrictions, possibly?

[Jacksonian]

That, and injuries to both a starting outfielder and a starting infielder.

Nah.  Anderson can outrun Lane.  Lane can out-power Anderson.  They're both left-handed and can play the same positions.

[Jacksonian]

40-man restrictions, possibly?

Nope.  They're both on the 40-man.

Another possiblity is major league experience.  Maybe Purp doesn't want to entertain another rookie outfielder right now.

Also Lane's a better option to PH.

[JimR]

I havent seen JA play, but if he is good as Bourn, I wish he would have been called up instead of Lane.   

no way.

[Froback]

no way.

Which part are you refering to, JA = Bourn or JA instead of Lane?

[VirtualBob]

Nope.  They're both on the 40-man.

Another possiblity is major league experience.  Maybe Purp doesn't want to entertain another rookie outfielder right now.

Also Lane's a better option to PH.

And then there is the fact that Lane is simply a whole lot more mature and a whole lot better.  I doubt if anyone who has watched Anderson thinks he is ready for anything other than PR and defensive replacement duty in the bigs at this point.  A little more plate discipline and a little more ability to consistently put the ball in play, and he might get a shout at 5th OF in '08 or '09.  Might.

Lane has the potential for being a 4th OF or even part-time starter if he can adjust.  He's either worthless (and in particular worth less than Anderson) if he continues to struggle, or he is capable of adding value as trade bait, or *maybe* even as an Astro in '08, and it is time to figure out which.  Even if you (non-specific) think he is worthless, he is not likely to play any worse this year than Anderson, so (it seems to me) it is worth giving him the shot.

[JimR]

Which part are you refering to, JA = Bourn or JA instead of Lane?

Anderson instead of Lane.

[JimR]

My thought was that he'd impressed Purp enough with his hitting at RR to deserve another shot at getting back in the club's good graces.

exactly right, imo

[Noe]

Actually I think it was Dotel in that wing.

And Hun was over a barrel because teams knew that Wagner was no longer going to be an Astro the way he shot off his mouth.  Hun made chicken salad out of chicken... well you know what.  Overall, if the Astros were to show they were "desperate" or had an owner who "ordered" Lidge to be trade (see: trading deadline, 2006), then you'll get shite for offers and they have you *IF* you have to trade.

In this case, no one has ever said trade Brad Lidge at any cost, except maybe the Comical Boys and their consituency.

[Jacksonian]

exactly right, imo

Then it's settled.  No need to even ask Purp now.

[Noe]

Then it's settled.  No need to even ask Purp now.

JA had some problems in High A Ball and his first foray into AA that would concern anyone.  He's done enough to turn around his game, but Michael Bourn has been more than impressive in his limited major league time.  He has that over JA and that is no small item.

Either way, the Astros need a CF and leadoff hitter for today and the coming years.  Bourn fits that criteria more than JA who is still trying to prove himself as a player in the minors.

[JackAstro]

Nah.  Anderson can outrun Lane.  Lane can out-power Anderson.  They're both left-handed and can play the same positions.

Not that it matters, I guess (this whole Bourn/Anderson/Lane thing has me thoroughly confused) but are you talking about Lane throwing left-handed? What does that have to do with it?

[Jacksonian]

Not that it matters, I guess (this whole Bourn/Anderson/Lane thing has me thoroughly confused) but are you talking about Lane throwing left-handed? What does that have to do with it?

Limey mentioned injuries in both the outfield and infield.  I presumed he meant that Lane could play first as well as the outfield positions.  As they're both left-handed they'd be able to handle the same positions.

[Froback]

Limey mentioned injuries in both the outfield and infield.  I presumed he meant that Lane could play first as well as the outfield positions.  As they're both left-handed they'd be able to handle the same positions.

I think they are confused.  Lane bats Right-handed, but throws left-handed for those who didn't know.

[JackAstro]

I think they are confused.  Lane bats Right-handed, but throws left-handed for those who didn't know.

No, I know that, I didn't realize Jacksonian was referring to Lane/Anderson at first rather than the OF.

[pravata]

My thought was that he'd impressed Purp enough with his hitting at RR to deserve another shot at getting back in the club's good graces.

Was he ever out of their "good graces"?  Other than the production issue I mean.  He's the only guy this season who got sent down who didn't piss and moan, that I know about.

[Jacksonian]

Was he ever out of their "good graces"?  Other than the production issue I mean.  He's the only guy this season who got sent down who didn't piss and moan, that I know about.

Production was the only reference point for good graces.  I never heard that he had a bad attitude either.

[Noe]

Was he ever out of their "good graces"?  Other than the production issue I mean.  He's the only guy this season who got sent down who didn't piss and moan, that I know about.

Are you talking about Josh Anderson or Jason Lane?

[Jacksonian]

Are you talking about Josh Anderson or Jason Lane?

Lane.

[mihoba]

Was he ever out of their "good graces"?  Other than the production issue I mean.  He's the only guy this season who got sent down who didn't piss and moan, that I know about.

Bruntlett was moaning about no other club wanting him, but that wasn't quite the level of the Burke moan, was it?

[BudGirl]

Bruntlett was moaning about no other club wanting him, but that wasn't quite the level of the Burke moan, was it?

I thought it was Bruntlett moaning about the Loretta signing.

[Noe]

Yes.

Burke = complained about being sent down.
Burntlett = complained about being lied too (re: Loretta signing)
Lane = wondered out loud why no other club claimed him.

[Bench]

I thought it was Bruntlett moaning about the Loretta signing.

Both. Though I wouldn't equate Bruntlett feeling down because every other club passed him up with Burke's "they never really gave me a fair shot" routine.

[Limey]

Lane = wondered out loud why no other club claimed him.

To be fair to Lane, he seemed to be expressing out loud what it meant to have been passed over by every major league team.  Twice.

[pravata]

Both. Though I wouldn't equate Bruntlett feeling down because every other club passed him up with Burke's "they never really gave me a fair shot" routine.

The Chronicle sends one of their ghouls to whisper sympathetic questions to the recently or soon to be departed, they sent Lopez shuffling over to Bruntlett during ST and got him to say this,  "They talk about defense," Bruntlett said. "In baseball in general, I think it's a lot of talk. We'll see by the end of the month how important it is." Link

[Noe]

To be fair to Lane, he seemed to be expressing out loud what it meant to have been passed over by every major league team.  Twice.

Yes. That is what I meant, Lane didn't bitch as much as remark about his own wake-up call that he passed through waivers easily.

[Navin R Johnson]

JA had some problems in High A Ball and his first foray into AA that would concern anyone.  He's done enough to turn around his game, but Michael Bourn has been more than impressive in his limited major league time.  He has that over JA and that is no small item.

Either way, the Astros need a CF and leadoff hitter for today and the coming years.  Bourn fits that criteria more than JA who is still trying to prove himself as a player in the minors.

I cant speak to the JA portion, but I completely agree with you on Bourn.   He is getting it done on the MLB level.    If the Astros move Qualls, i think MB would be a good starting point for talks.

[Noe]

I cant speak to the JA portion, but I completely agree with you on Bourn.   He is getting it done on the MLB level.    If the Astros move Qualls, i think MB would be a good starting point for talks.

I like Bourn, a lot... so I'm probably as biased as you are.  But overall, I would not consider it a bad trade at all.  Leadoff hitters in the major leagues is a very important and rarely found commodity.  With Rollins in Philly and Rowand patrolling the CF area, Bourn is blocked and here is an opportunity (IMHO of course).

I think Josh Anderson has had ups and downs at important minor league stops for my own taste to say he's much more than an Orlando Palmiero type of major leaguer in the making right now.  Maybe a little higher, say a Podsednick type.  But I just think Bourn has a higher cieling and definitely a starter for the major leagues at this point.

It all depends what Purpura thinks if the risk is in his favor to pull the trigger.  Plus if he is overpaying with Qualls.  This may be a trade that garners a little more in terms of a low minor league add-on if The Count can angle it right.

[JimR]

I like Bourn, a lot... so I'm probably as biased as you are.  But overall, I would not consider it a bad trade at all.  Leadoff hitters in the major leagues is a very important and rarely found commodity.  With Rollins in Philly and Rowand patrolling the CF area, Bourn is blocked and here is an opportunity (IMHO of course).

I think Josh Anderson has had ups and downs at important minor league stops for my own taste to say he's much more than an Orlando Palmiero type of major leaguer in the making right now.  Maybe a little higher, say a Podsednick type.  But I just think Bourn has a higher cieling and definitely a starter for the major leagues at this point.

It all depends what Purpura thinks if the risk is in his favor to pull the trigger.  Plus if he is overpaying with Qualls.  This may be a trade that garners a little more in terms of a low minor league add-on if The Count can angle it right.

what i said "not i" to was Lidge for Bourn.

[Noe]

what i said "not i" to was Lidge for Bourn.

Yeah, I agree on that one.  Even Qualls for Bourn may be a little much given the club control Qualls has attached to him.  This is not a Larry Anderson for Jeff Bagwell trade, but I think to discount Michael Bourn because of Josh Anderson is really deflating how good Bourn looks right now.  Is he going to develop more and more?  What I've seen is exciting and I think it may be worth making such a deal.  Purpura doesn't want prospects, he wants someone who plays now and is going to be here for years to comes.  Bourn fits that bill.

[dirty steve]

San Diego acquired utility man Scott Hairston from D-Backs, per 790 am.

[Uncle Charlie]

San Diego acquired utility man Scott Hairston from D-Backs, per 790 am.

Hairston is actually worse than Giles right now.  This one doesn't make any sense.

[Matt]

Except Scott Hairston is an outfielder.

[Uncle Charlie]

Except Scott Hairston is an outfielder.

Hairston was a 2B for most of his minor league career.  He was moved to OF becuase of Counsel being there in 2005, then Hudson in 2006.

[Reuben]

Hairston was a 2B for most of his minor league career.  He was moved to OF becuase of Counsel being there in 2005, then Hudson in 2006.

Right, but I think the point is it probably does not preclude the Pads from maybe dealing for Loretta. That said, I don't know what their 4th/5th OF situation is really.

[dirty steve]

Red-hot commodity
Jul 27 - ESPN.com's Amy Nelson reports that the Houston Astros are fielding offers for second baseman Mark Loretta, but according to a baseball source, Houston is seeking as many as three prospects from teams like the Padres and Mets, a price too high for the 35-year-old second baseman.
http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/features/rumors

[Matt]

Hairston was a 2B for most of his minor league career.  He was moved to OF becuase of Counsel being there in 2005, then Hudson in 2006.

He hasn't played 2B in the majors since 2004 so therefore he's an outfielder and most likely there to give them outfield depth.

[Matt]

Red-hot commodity
Jul 27 - ESPN.com's Amy Nelson reports that the Houston Astros are fielding offers for second baseman Mark Loretta, but according to a baseball source, Houston is seeking as many as three prospects from teams like the Padres and Mets, a price too high for the 35-year-old second baseman.
http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/features/rumors

It all depends on how bad they think they need Loretta.

[Fredia]

It all depends on how bad they think they need Loretta.

could also depend on who the three prospects are

[pravata]

could also depend on who the three prospects are

Prospects, not suspects.

[Navin R Johnson]

Speaking of red hot....

No Utley, no problem for Phils in rout
Bourn (four hits) leads offensive assault in rain-shortened win
.
.
.
The final product included Michael Bourn, a name frequently mentioned in trade rumors, batting leadoff.

If Bourn was unknowingly auditioning for a new role elsewhere, he nailed it. He had a career-high four hits in as many at-bats, scored twice and stole his 17th base of the season.

He hit three different types of pitches off three different pitchers while filling in for everyday center fielder Aaron Rowand, who hurt his shoulder playing tag with neighborhood kids and is day-to-day.

Bench coach Jimy Williams told Bourn early Friday that he had a chance to start, and the 24-year-old made the most of it.

"I had a good day today," Bourn said. "That's all I can say."

Bourn said Thursday he had no idea his name had been mentioned as a possible dealing piece. He reiterated on Friday that he hadn't even bothered to look at any rumors.

"It's out of my hands," he said.

http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/gameday_recap.jsp?ymd=20070727&content_id=2112954&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi

[pravata]

odds and ends

Phillies special assistant Charley Kerfeld scouted the Houston Astros on Friday night, likely watching relievers Chad Qualls, Dan Wheeler and Brad Lidge.
http://www.delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070728/SPORTS01/707280379/1002/SPORTS

The Astros want outfielder Michael Bourn, whom the Phillies are reluctant to deal.
http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070727&content_id=2112968&vkey=news_phi&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi

The Yankees have been trying to get Wigginton from Tampa Bay for at least a week, and have spoken about using relief pitcher Scott Proctor as the bait.

(Mets) not thrilled about the idea of Houston's Chad Qualls or Dan Wheeler, but if the Astros made Brad Lidge available, they would jump in with both feet

The Mariners are in on every available starting pitcher, and several pitchers who aren't. Aiming super-high, they've bugged the Marlins about Dontrelle Willis, the White Sox about Jon Garland and even tried to see if the Yankees were putting Andy Pettitte on the market. They're liable to get somebody, but it isn't likely to be somebody anywhere near that good. The latest talk has them hot on the trail of Houston's Jason Jennings....
http://www.nj.com/sports/ledger/index.ssf?/base/sports-2/1185617364281220.xml&coll=1

Rosenthal
The Braves, according to major-league sources, have made the Rangers a whopper of an offer for first baseman Mark Teixeira. The Angels, sources say, also have submitted a substantial bid.

From the Braves, the Rangers would receive three highly regarded young players — catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Class AA left-hander Matt Harrison and Class A shortstop Elvis Andrus — while giving up only Teixeira.

...Wheeler, a free agent after next season, would cost the least in talent. The Rockies, in particular, are targeting him as a possible addition.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7065740

[Uncle Charlie]

Red-hot commodity
Jul 27 - ESPN.com's Amy Nelson reports that the Houston Astros are fielding offers for second baseman Mark Loretta, but according to a baseball source, Houston is seeking as many as three prospects from teams like the Padres and Mets, a price too high for the 35-year-old second baseman.
http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/features/rumors

I have a hard time believing that Houston would ask for 3 prospects for Loretta unless they see him as their starting 2B next year.

[Jacksonian]

I have a hard time believing that Houston would ask for 3 prospects for Loretta unless they see him as their starting 2B next year.

Or, Purp knows full well they need a 2b that can hit and Loretta is the best hitter at that position available.  Add to that it's only the 28th and Purp has 3 more days to make one of them flinch.

[Matt]

He hit three different types of pitches off three different pitchers while filling in for everyday center fielder Aaron Rowand, who hurt his shoulder playing tag with neighborhood kids and is day-to-day.

I wonder if one of those neighborhood kids was Lance Berkman

[BUWebguy]

Will Carroll's latest:
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=6511

Melky Cabrera to the Astros for one of their relievers? That's possible.

[Matt]

Will Carroll's latest:
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=6511

No thanks

[Ron Brand]

No thanks

What is his downside?

[Matt]

What is his downside?

He doesn't have much power at all which would be fine except his OBP isn't that great either and he doesn't steal many bases.  Light hitting and no speed.  He's not bad defensively though and is a switch hitter.

[Bench]

He doesn't have much power at all which would be fine except his OBP isn't that great either and he doesn't steal many bases.  Light hitting and no speed.  He's not bad defensively though and is a switch hitter.

He has good at bats, for the most part, but is a singles/doubles hitter at best. Decent defensive player, he can play adequate center but is better suited to the corner spots.

[MRaup]

He has good at bats, for the most part, but is a singles/doubles hitter at best. Decent defensive player, he can play adequate center but is better suited to the corner spots.

Nobody would know who he was if he didn't play for the Yankees.

[Bench]

Nobody would know who he was if he didn't play for the Yankees.

Very true. And the Yankees really covet/overvalue him. I kind of cringed when I saw his name come up wondering what the price would be.

[legs_of_eggs]

Very true. And the Yankees really covet/overvalue him. I kind of cringed when I saw his name come up wondering what the price would be.

I think Abreu is a FA next year and theyll let him walk and plug in melky. I read they're shopping Johnny Damon too though so I dont know what theyre thinking.

[Ron Brand]

They're thinking that Abreu and Damon are done and for the most part, they're right.

True that Melky doesn't have much power - CFs in general these days don't have a whole lot - but he's got speed and his OBPs are in the .340-.370 range and he's only 22.  I don't know much about his defense but he doesn't seem to be a bad guy to pick up if the cost isn't too high.

[astrofan]

looks like we traded Wheeler for Wigginton

[Fredia]

looks like we traded Wheeler for Wigginton

source?

[cougar]

ESPNews "Breaking News" box at the moment.

[JSAstrosFan]

Just found the Wheeler/Wigginton trade here

[juliogotay]

If I remember correctly Wheeler lives in Tampa. Maybe this will please him.

[loganck]

Just found the Wheeler/Wigginton trade here

and
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/2007-07-28-astros-drays-trade_N.htm

[dirty steve]

and
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/2007-07-28-astros-drays-trade_N.htm

the chron's take:
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/5008520.html

[dirty steve]

If I remember correctly Wheeler lives in Tampa. Maybe this will please him.

they caught him after the game and he mentioned he just built a house in the Tampa area.  I believe his father in law is D-Rays broadcaster Dewayne Staats.

[Bench]

they caught him after the game and he mentioned he just built a house in the Tampa area.  I believe his father in law is D-Rays broadcaster Dewayne Staats.

Considering the circumstances which brought him to Houston, kudos to Wheels for his major league trades working well for his personal life.

[Ron Brand]

Interesting that BP's Similarity Index has Wigginton's two closest comps to be Doug Rader and Sean Berry, and his #5 comp is Morgan Ensberg.  And #10 is Charlie Hayes.

[juliogotay]

If he could play the hot corner like the Rooster we'd have something.

[dirty steve]

The Braves could be on the verge of not only acquiring the best hitter on the trade market, but one of the best relievers as well.
In addition to reaching a preliminary agreement for Rangers first baseman Mark Teixeira, the Braves are close to a deal for Royals closer Octavio Dotel, according to major-league sources.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7074020

[austro]

God help me, I think I'm pulling for the Braves, just so the Mets get jacked.

[MusicMan]

God help me, I think I'm pulling for the Braves, just so the Mets get jacked.

Get thee to confession.  Immediately.

[Fredia]

God help me, I think I'm pulling for the Braves, just so the Mets get jacked.

stop and think who the astros are playing next and go do every single rally ever invented by man (including those wiht live chickes, snakes and other things not mentionable on this site) then invent a few more of yout own

[BudGirl]

stop and think who the astros are playing next and go do every single rally ever invented by man (including those wiht live chickes, snakes and other things not mentionable on this site) then invent a few more of yout own

what isn't mentionable on this site?

[Froback]

what isn't mentionable on this site?

I can't mention it here.

[austro]

I can't mention it here.

Ladies and gentlemen, your next Attorney General!

[dirty steve]

God help me, I think I'm pulling for the Braves, just so the Mets get jacked.

my loathing of the Braves wained a bit after we eliminated them in 2004 and 2005.  but some still remains after having to watch nothing but Braves games when stationed in Savannah from 1996-1999.

[pravata]

The Braves could be on the verge of not only acquiring the best hitter on the trade market, but one of the best relievers as well.
In addition to reaching a preliminary agreement for Rangers first baseman Mark Teixeira, the Braves are close to a deal for Royals closer Octavio Dotel, according to major-league sources.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7074020

When the Braves were sold earlier this season there was some concern that they would stagnate because the new owners weren't going to spend money.  Concern was unfounded looks like.

[dirty steve]

When the Braves were sold earlier this season there was some concern that they would stagnate because the new owners weren't going to spend money.  Concern was unfounded looks like.

i think this would signal that they wont attempt to resign Andruw Jones in the offseason, maybe looking to the trade route to acquire another OF.  i'd think their focus would be on getting Teixeira locked up, even though Boras wont allow Teixeira to sign anything long term before next offseason.

[MusicMan]

You don't use Scott Boras if you're looking for an extension.

[Froback]

When the Braves were sold earlier this season there was some concern that they would stagnate because the new owners weren't going to spend money.  Concern was unfounded looks like.

Don't be so sure.  If Andruw walks after this season, Teixeira will just fill that salary slot.  He is still under club control for 1 more year, albeit arbitration year.

If they go and sign Andruw THEN you can say they are sheding that idea.

[Froback]

You don't use Scott Boras if you're looking for an extension.

I actually think he was quoted the other day about someone else and an extension and his response was something along the lines of "What is an extension?", IOW "I don't do those."

[dirty steve]

You don't use Scott Boras if you're looking for an extension.

has andruw jones been hurt by that tactic this year?

[MusicMan]

has andruw jones been hurt by that tactic this year?

Boras would argue he was hurt by extending the first time.

[Limey]

Boras would argue he was hurt by extending the first time.

Extending was easier than hitting the weight room.

[dirty steve]

The Red Sox are on the verge of winning the Eric Gagne sweepstakes, pending his approval and a review of his medical records, according to major-league sources.
Gagne must waive his no-trade clause to Boston for the deal to be completed. It is possible the Red Sox will allow him to share the closer's role with Jonathan Papelbon.
The Rangers would receive right-hander Kason Gabbard and an additional player or players in the deal, sources say.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7072074

[BUWebguy]

The Pirates traded for Matt Morris???
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7078266

[austro]

The Pirates traded for Matt Morris???
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7078266

Amazing.

[pravata]

Amazing.

Matt Morris has to be gob smacked.  The other thing is they neglected to trade Nancy, Link

[austro]

Matt Morris has to be gob smacked.  The other thing is they neglected to trade Nancy, Link

Yeah, his quote sounded like something from a man in shock.