Rosenthal’s Latest

Ken Rosenthal is in vintage form, cranking out the spring rumors and inside tidbits.  Check out his latest at FOX Sports.  Notable trade rumors within:

• Akinori Otsuka could be a target of the Cardinals, but they haven’t discussed it with Texas and the Rangers need to have faith in Gagne and other relievers before dealing him.  I don’t know if any team really has a "surplus" of relievers, but the Nats have a couple of good ones they might want to peddle.
• Chances of a Helton to Boston deal appear slim.  Many had speculated the two teams would revisit talks about now.
• The Diamondbacks will probably look to trade Scott Hairston and/or Dave Krynzel, with no chance of Hairston hitting waivers.  I’m rooting for Hairston, a talented player who has endured some terrible luck and timing.  I think Kenny Williams should get on the phone with Josh Byrnes.  They’ve completed several deals in the past together, and Hairston is a perfect fit for left field on the Sox.
• Rosenthal says the Dodgers are looking for bullpen help, though he thinks Marcus Thames or Kevin Mench would make sense for them.  Personally, it seems they already have a logjam of corner guys.  Rosenthal also thinks the Padres would do well to deal for Thames or Reggie Willits.