Jon Heyman of SI.com reports that the market for starting pitching continues to shrink as top pitchers encounter health issues. Here are the details, along with the rest of his rumors:
- Unless Erik Bedard proves his shoulder is healthy, Brad Penny and Jarrod Washburn could be the most appealing starters on the market.
- Theo Epstein, who traded Bronson Arroyo when the Red Sox seemed to have excess pitching, would rather have a pitching surplus than give Penny away.
- The Phillies, who are still looking for a front-line starter, are a little "leery" of adding Bedard, according to one of Heyman's sources.
- The Indians remain reluctant to deal Cliff Lee, who would be the best starter availabe if he hit the market.
- One GM says the Nationals should add Bobby Valentine, but says they're "too cheap" to make the move.
- Tom Glavine's agent acknowledged that his client is becoming more likely to retire.
- The asking price for Nick Johnson remains high.
