Let’s see what we’ve got here.
The Red Sox placed Tony Graffanino on waivers, so that tells you a lot about the trade market for second basemen right now. Some teams that are questionable at second base: Blue Jays, Marlins, Mets, Cardinals, Cubs.
Braves starter John Thomson is on the block, though I’m not sure Atlanta has the pitching depth to deal him. Smoltz has to be considered a health risk and I’m not sure what they’re going to get out of Davies and Sosa. Then again, Chuck James could step in if either falters. Still, it’s better to be weak in the bullpen than in the rotation. The A’s could send Juan Cruz back their way, which would give Oakland 46 starters, all better than any member of the Royals’ staff. Thomson could also go to KC, Texas, Houston, or San Diego.
UPDATE: The A’s weirdly sent Cruz to the D’Backs for Brad Halsey. Just in case six starters happen to break down.
