Brian Sabean once said he couldn't imagine trading Jonathan Sanchez. Now he may not be able to. Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News says the lefty flamethrower's stock has declined sharply. Baggarly writes:
"Sanchez pitches today against the Angels having won just once over his past nine starts. The Giants are 2-7 over that span. In the process, Sanchez's trade value has declined sharply, according to scouts who have been following the team. Sanchez has struck out 57 in 57 2/3 innings, but scouts have mentioned an all-around drop in the quality of his stuff while noting that his control issues have gotten worse."
Baggarly says the Indians reported interest "has cooled" and that teams view Sanchez as more of a bullpen arm. Baggarly adds,
"While the Giants have not acknowledged that they are shopping Sanchez, league sources said the 26-year-old left-hander has been an active name as the club seeks a power bat for the middle of the lineup. A Giants source said the team was not close to making any deals. The club has talked to the Texas Rangers about third baseman Hank Blalock, but he isn't considered an ideal fit."
