Rumors Abound . . .

There hasn't been a whole lot of baseball talk here lately, but here goes. There are rumors the Red Sox and the Braves have some trade talks going on. Who are the contenders, you ask? (Or, maybe you don't, but oh well!) Mark Teixeira and Kevin Youkilis (a.k.a. Youk).

I totally get why the Braves want to trade Tex. First, he's a free agent after this season which means he's unlikely to be with the Braves next year. They can't afford him. Isn't this the main reason Texas traded him last year? This makes Youk attractive because he's set at $3 million until 2011. His stats have been decent, he's currently .271 at the plate, but his on base percentage is better, around .380, I think? He's good for yard having hit 20 homeruns so far this season, and 77 RBI.

I also understand why the Sox would be interested in trading Youk. Their stats are similar -- Youk's BA is less, his OBP is higher, and he has 17 homeruns, and he's 10 down on the RBI's compared to Tex. Both have earned Gold Gloves in the past, and Youk is expected to earn another this year. Comparatively, there's talk that Youk will flame out, unlike Tex who is expected to be a solid position player for several more years. Tex would also be able to help out with power should Ortiz or Manny present problems. Theoretically, if Tex came into Boston and is successful, there is less of a need for Manny, if they find a fit in left field.

The Sox would have to offer up someone alongside Youk, probably a relief pitcher, which the Braves need. Boston has done well with their pitching depth this year. The most talk has been about Craig Hansen. Hansen hasn't been super productive for Boston, but when his slider is on, he usually does well. Just don't let him get behind in the count -- that's when he struggles. Another suggestion, Sox prospect Michael Bowden. To whom I say, no, no, no. Bowden did well at Portland this year, going 9-4 with a 2.33 ERA. He has the potential to develop into a great pitcher. I'd rather see Boston develop Bowden than send him to the Braves. Look how well they did with Papelbon!

So, I'm torn. I'm a fan of both Youk and Tex, and to be honest, it would be fun having Youk in Atlanta. He's a fun player to watch. I can see both sides. But, I'd be sad to see Youk leave Boston if the trade happens.

One thing I would like to again mention to Theo and rest of the Boston front office: Why not attempt to rid yourself of the faker within your organization? I've been saying trade Manny for years! He has no hustle whatsoever. He practically walks to first base on the ground ball. And now? Faking an injury so he's able to sit out? He's making $20 million! He sat out after MRIs on both knees came back negative. Imagine the surprise when, after being faced with disciplinary action, that his knee is magically okay! I am so tired of hearing it's just "Manny being Manny." Bullcrap. That would be one trade I'd be happy to see.