MLB Trade Rumors

Last offseason, the Red Sox made a concerted effort to bolster their offense by signing Mark Teixeira. There were also several rumors of them attempting to trade for various offensive stars. They also seemed determined to upgrade their captain Jason Varitek with a younger, more offensively oriented catcher.

They pretty much failed in every effort.

However, the team projected as stacked, and there were few public concerns.

It’s almost time to let the real “Hot Stove Season” begin in earnest.

Barring some unforeseen blunder by the Baseball Writers Association of America, Joe Mauer will be crowned the 2009 American League Most Valuable Player on Monday afternoon.

When that announcement becomes official, the clock starts.

It's closing in on Thanksgiving and baseball circles are starting to heat up with discussion about players moving from one city to another.

The wonderful part of being a fan at this time of year is the speculation that comes with rumors, whispers, and just throwing junk at the wall to see what sticks.

In the spirit of discussion, I present to you an idea for discussion: the Cubs should explore trading third baseman Aramis Ramirez to the Phillies.

First, let's walk through the foundation of why this deal would even be a consideration for either side.

The Boston Red Sox are considering acquiring a marquee first baseman.

The club is reportedly interested in San Diego’s Adrian Gonzalez and Detroit’s Miguel Cabrera.

If either one is acquired in a trade, the Red Sox would move incumbent first baseman Kevin Youkilis to third base on a permanent basis.

Sound familiar?

It certainly does to Mike Lowell.

Garrett Atkins is a man without a job, yet he is still gainfully employed.

It may sound like the ultimate contradiction, but it’s merely a sign of the times in Major League Baseball.

Many teams are currently at a tipping point with overpriced, underperforming veterans.

I was wandering around various baseball sites today, and came across a thought that honestly made me laugh when I first read it.

"[The Cubs] have the finances... have a chance to win, which is what [Roy] Halladay will certainly require, and while the Cubs' farm system isn't atop the league right now, there are a few intriguing talents that could fill out a package for Halladay."

That's on ESPN.com's Rumor Mill. I've read a couple other places that the Cubs might be a "darkhorse" candidate to make a splash for the Blue Jays' ace.