Cleveland Indians Trade Rumors: Kerry Wood, Jake Westbrook and Russell Branyan
ByAccording to Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports
, the Cleveland Indians would like to move closer Kerry Wood and his $10.5 million contract. The team also may be willing to deal right-handed pitcher Jake Westbrook ($11 million owed) and first baseman Russell Branyan.
Rosenthal says the Phillies could be trade partners for Westbrook and Wood. Which pitcher they decide to pursue will depend on the immediate need of their oft-injured pitching staff.
The Indians may be willing to sweeten up the deal by including cash to land better prospects from whomever they decide to deal with. A deal for Wood and Westbrook may require a cash exchange due to their high salaries.
Other long-shots to be traded include left fielder Austin Kearns, third baseman Jhonny Peralta, second baseman Mark Grudzielanek and backup catcher Mike Redmond since they are all in the last year of their contracts.

