MLBTR Originals: 6/19/11 – 6/25/11

Here's a look back at the original work that was published here at MLBTR last week:

• For contenders with deep pockets, there are some intriguing, if highly compensated, players that could probably be had easily, writes Tim Dierkes.
• Yunel Escobar's extension with the Jays has its advantages for both the player and team, writes Ben Nicholson-Smith.
• Looking for a lefty reliever? Tim has the rundown on which guys might be available.
• Finding a backup backstop who can hit is no easy task, as Ben writes.
• Pending-free-agent Jamey Carroll spoke with Tim. Carroll is also a trade candidate.
• A handful of contenders could use an upgrade at third base. Others need help at shortstop.
• In a season of great parity, it's tough to figure how many sellers are out there. Tim considers this question.
• Tim conducted his weekly chat with MLBTR's loyal readers.
• Ben had a look at how baseball's newest $100MM-plus players are faring so far this season.
• Are the Twins playoff contenders? Ben asked that question and set up a poll for your input. The results are interesting.
• Carlos Quentin's bounce-back season has him poised to earn a contract extension with the White Sox, writes Mark Polishuk.
• Jim Riggleman's departure from the Nats prompted Howard Megdal to examine whether winning managers find new jobs.
• The steal-happy Blue Jays are reaping the benefits of their aggressiveness on the basepaths, according to Ben.
• Mike Axisa rounded up some of the best pieces from around the baseball blogosphere. Among the topics: Matt Kemp, Hanley Ramirez, Jeff Francis and Geovany Soto.