The Trading Post: Player Edition

Recently, I also did a rundown of a few of the teams that could be the busiest come deadline day. Now, a look at the specific players that could be moving:

Catcher

Bengie Molina, Giants: Both the Yankees and Marlins have been said to approached the Giants about the catcher. Both of those teams have had injuries to the position lately, and could be looking for an immediate replacement. The price has been said to be turning some off of the idea. You have to remember, you are not just getting a replacement catcher, you are getting one that can hit and knows what it takes to win a title. I'm secretly rooting for the Yanks to acquire him, because who doesn't want an all Molina catching squad? Now if only Yadier was for sale.....

Others: Greg Zaun (Blue Jays); Gerald Laird (Rangers)

First Baseman

Mark Teixeira, Braves: Seems like his name has been in this spot quite a bit in the past year. After being dealt to the Braves last year at the deadline for a slew of prospects, the Braves need to get something in return. Many teams could use a player of Teixeira's caliber, but need to be able to match the Braves needs for the future. Atlanta already has a solid group of young pitching, and doesn’t need anymore. The Braves could use some young hitting though. Besides Teix, they don't have much to speak of in terms of First Baseman. Another corner outfielder to compliment Francouer, or the eventual replacement for Chipper could come in a deal. Don't be surprised if the Red Sox go after him, and trade Manny somewhere else. Youkilis has had some success playing Left Field before, and would allow the Sox to not miss Manny, and receive only prospects from him. The Diamondbacks and Angels are the other options.

Others: Mike Jacobs (Marlins)

Second Baseman:

None to really speak of here. Brain Roberts (Orioles) always remains a possibility, but not likely.

Third Baseman:

Adrian Beltre, Mariners: The rumor mill had a deal to the Twins all worked out, but the Mariners decided they wanted another top prospect, and the Twins understandably backed out. Typical Seattle management, they have stalled deals with Washburn and Ibanez as well, trying to get more than the players are worth. Beltre could really help any contender though. His ability to hit for power, steal a couple bases and his gold glove defense makes him extremely valuable. Thing is, I don’t see many contending teams needing a 3B. A-Rod (NYY), Wright (NYM), Lowell (BOS), Longoria (TB) are all players that have no need to be upgraded. Possibly the Angels could go for a deal, but I doubt the Mariners want Beltre inside the division.

Others: none

Shortstop:

Miguel Tejada, Astros: This could be Tejada’s second move in 4 months. He would bring even more power into the Sox lineup. Could this mean Manny is out the door? By bringing in Tejada, it would soften the blow of his departure.

Jack Wilson, Pirates: Even though the Pirates are asking too much for him, I still think someone will give in.

Others: John McDonald (Blue Jays), Michael Young (Rangers), Adam Everett (Twins)

Outfielders:

Manny Ramirez, Red Sox: Will the enigma move on? He wouldn’t be the same anywhere other then Beantown, but he sure could give it a try. Theo has moved big disgruntled names before (Nomar), and we saw how that worked out (Can you say championship?).

Jason Bay, Pirates: Supposedly the Pirates are asking for too much, but that’s what they said about Nady and Marte. Could they really deal their top 3 pieces for nothing in return?

Others: Raul Ibanez (Mariners), Randy Winn (Giants), Adam Dunn (Phillies)

Pitching:

Starters: Jarrod Washburn (Mariners), Micah Owings (D’Backs), A.J. Burnett (Blue Jays)

Relievers: Arthur Rhodes (Mariners), Brian Fuentes (Rockies), George Sherrill (Orioles)