Nick Cafardo of The Boston Globe turns our attention to possible trade candidates. Here’s his summary:
Cliff Lee — With him becoming a free agent at season’s end, two things could happen. The Mariners could sell him off to the bidder that unloads the most prospects, or they will try to sign him, feeling he’s a player to build around. The Twins need a front-liner, so they would have interest. The Cardinals, Mets, Rangers, and Dodgers also have been linked.
Roy Oswalt — Rangers president Nolan Ryan confirmed the team’s interest in the veteran Astros rigthander. But some in the Houston organization are skeptical that Astros owner Drayton McLane would deal with the other Texas team.
Dan Haren — He would be much in demand, but Arizona general manager Josh Byrnes would need in reverse the kind of multi-player deal he made to acquire Haren. Haren, 31, makes $8.25 million this season, and that escalates to $12.75 million in 2011 and 2012 before an option year in 2013 at $15.5 million that contains a $3.5 million buyout. Haren’s bugaboo: He has allowed 18 homers. Same gang of teams needing a starter would be interested.
Ben Sheets — You figured the A’s got Sheets for this purpose — to flip him for more prospects at the deadline. Since giving up 17 runs in two starts in late April and early May, Sheets has become a quality-start type.
Paul Konerko — He has been heavily scouted, but there are questions about availability. Entering yesterday, Konerko had 17 homers, 48 RBIs, and a .974 OPS, but right now only he and Alex Rios have provided much offense for the White Sox. The Giants and Angels are possibilities.
David DeJesus — A solid offensive player who can play all three outfield positions, he is affordable at $4.7 million, with an option for next season at $6 million. The Red Sox, Yankees, and Padres are possible bidders, but the Royals are said to be asking for more return than is acceptable to the suitors.
David Aardsma — The Seattle closer is already drawing a lot of interest. The Twins have done well with Jon Rauch (17 for 19 in saves), so they are more apt to seek a set-up type.
Kerry Wood — He has started to pitch better for Cleveland and could be a set-up man/closer for a contender willing to pick up the prorated part of his $10.5 million salary (and $11 milion option). Starter Jake Westbrook also could be had in a deal.
Kevin Millwood and Jeremy Guthrie — Millwood got his first win last night in his 15th start and leads the league in homers allowed (19), but has 13 strikeouts in his last two starts, covering 13‚ innings. Guthrie is 3-8 with a 3.97 ERA and could be a good middle to back-end starter for a contending team.
Randy Wolf — The Brewers’ veteran lefty finally had a good start his last time out, and while he’s had problems with his location, he could really solidify a staff if he’s on.
Kelly Johnson — The D-Backs infielder has had a nice season, reviving his career with 13 home runs. He could be a third base option for a team like the Twins.
Ty Wigginton — His name is always mentioned at the deadline, but there’s a reason: He plays multiple positions and is a good clubhouse presence. He is playing mostly second base (some first) for the Orioles with Brian Roberts out, and his 13 homers and 39 RBIs entering last night have to be appealing. If the Red Sox didn’t have Mike Lowell, Wigginton would be a good pickup.
Miguel Tejada — He can’t really play shortstop anymore though he’d want to, but he would be a welcome addition to any team needing a burst of energy and optimism. He’s still a charismatic player that teammates flock to.
Toronto Blue Jays — If they do fall out of contention, first baseman Lyle Overbay, slumping outfielder Jose Bautista, and shortstop Alex Gonzalez could all be candidates for dispersal. Gonzalez or even backup John McDonald would seem to fit the Angels with Erick Aybar out with a knee injury, but the Angels usually plug from within and will try Brandon Wood there.
Mike Lowell — The Twins have discussed Lowell internally, given their unproductive third base situation.
