According to the Star-Ledger, officials from both the Mets and Red Sox have confirmed that trade talks about Manny Ramirez have taken place between the two teams.
The Red Sox suspect that GM Omar Minaya wants Ramirez more than Mets ownership does. Regardless, the Mets are reluctant to part with top-prospect talent in exchange for outfielders like Adam Dunn, Raul Ibanez and Randy Winn, but they (rightly) consider Ramirez a far superior hitter to those in that group, and they would discuss players in a Ramirez deal that they would not discuss in others. What remains to be seen is whether a Ramirez deal is too complicated to come together in time for the deadline.
Also on the trade front, talks between the Phillies and Sox concerning Ramirez appear to be dead or non-existent, according to Yahoo! Sports.
Just ask Phillies GM Pat Gillick:
“At this point, there’s no interest on our part. We have no place to play the guy. Burrell has to play left field, and I don’t think RamÃrez has played right field in seven or eight years.”
The Dodgers appear very interested in Manny Ramirez, but talks are in very early stages according to Sports Illustrated. The Dodgers are likely to include young outfielders Matt Kemp and/or Andre Eithier in a deal for Manny.
Jon Heyman from SI contradicts the report that the Mets have talked to the Sox about Ramirez:
“The other teams showing interest in Ramirez aren’t known. However, the Mets are said to not be involved.”
Confusing, I know. But, just be patient. We’ll have all of our answers by the July 31 4 p.m. trade deadline.
What should the Red Sox do with Manny Ramirez?
Total Voters: 33
Tags: Andre Ethier, Los Angeles Dodgers, Matt Kemp, New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, Red Sox
The Angels got Tex and have to be the favorite to win at least the AL. With their pitching, I don’t see a glaring weakness on the team. I don’t know much about Marek, but Kotchman isn’t a very big price tag for a player like Tex even though he’s a free agent. I don’t think there is a player available of Manny’s caliber…