Jon Heyman of SI.com is reporting that a three-team blockbuster trade might be brewing involving Boston Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez. The rumored deal would send Ramirez to Florida.
There’s still work to be done in the Red Sox-Marlins part of the megadeal, but one swap that’s on the table would send young outfielder Jeremy Hermida, power-hitting outfield prospect Mike Stanton and hard-throwing young pitcher Ryan Tucker from Florida to Boston for Ramirez. However, the Marlins are said to be trying to keep the highly-regarded Stanton out of the trade. Josh Willingham was discussed as a replacement for Hermida, but it appears Hermida would be the main player going in the first part of a potential deal.
In the most talked-about three-team scenario, Boston would send one or more of those players acquired from Florida to Pittsburgh for star outfielder Jason Bay, who would be a more palatable replacement for Ramirez than either Hermida or Willingham. Other combinations being discussed are believed include reliever John Grabow or perhaps even shortstop Jack Wilson. But Pittsburgh is said to be still trying to enhance its end of things, and Boston could wind up tying to substitute a different third team other than Pittsburgh.
It’s interesting to see the Marlins mixing it up as buyers. Normally at this time of year, they’re selling whatever pieces they have to acquire prospects for down the road. But given that they’re only 1.5 games back in the NL East, it’s nice to see them go for it and try to swing deals to win in the now.
Could you imagine what Manny would do against NL pitching? Scary thought.
