2:29pm: The Pirates and A's aren't discussing a package deal involving Willingham at this point, according to ESPN.com's Buster Olney (on Twitter). The two clubs have discussed relief pitching.
12:18pm: The Pirates are mulling a possible trade with the Athletics for lefty Craig Breslow and outfielder Josh Willingham, tweets Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Biertempfel believes Garrett Jones would probably be part of the package going to Oakland in such a deal.
The Pirates have a need for left-handed relief, while Willingham would serve as a useful right-handed bat in right field. The 32-year-old is hitting .244/.321/.434 on the season, but must prove he's past an Achilles injury.
The Pirates are enjoying increased financial flexiblity due to improved attendance, president Frank Coonelly told ESPN's Buster Olney. Coonelly also mentioned that he envisions GM Neal Huntington remaining at the helm "for a long time."
