Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports suggests the Phillies may find Cliff Lee nearly as appealing as Roy Halladay because the Indians lefty makes just $11.5MM through 2010 and Halladay makes over $20MM before the end of next year. Rosenthal says the Phils could package rookie standout J.A. Happ with Carlos Carrasco and Dominic Brown to get the Indians' attention. Here are the rest of his rumors:
- Though some say the Jays need to acquire Brown or Kyle Drabek in any deal for Halladay, Rosenthal points out that some scouts like Jason Knapp and Michael Taylor just as much.
- The Reds would like to move some of their expensive starters and relievers to make room for younger pitchers, Rosenthal says.
- Bronson Arroyo, Aaron Harang and Francisco Cordero make enough to scare some suitors away, and while a salary swap is possible, Rosenthal says the Reds are more likely to make offseason deals.
- Jon Garland, Doug Davis and Carl Pavano are drawing little attention. Teams' unwillingness to take on salary limits interest in the two D'Backs starters.
- Michael Wuertz and Rafael Betancourt are drawing "heavy attention," but the A's seem likely to keep Wuertz.
- It would be tough for the Angels to give Brandon Wood up for George Sherrill, especially since Wood could start at third next year if the team doesn't re-sign Chone Figgins.
- It seems unlikely that the Red Sox would trade Clay Buchholz for Victor Martinez. If he's moved at all, Buchholz would likely be dealt for a premium young hitter.
- Orlando Cabrera's hitting better and he could interest the Mariners, Cardinals, Twins, Reds and Mets.
- The Mariners are one of many teams interested in Josh Willingham.
- The Rockies are reluctant to deal Ryan Spilborghs, and refused a Phillies offer that included two quality prospects.
