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Top 5: players who could be traded in the offseason

Sporting News, The, Oct 14, 2005

1 Manny Ramirez, LF, Red Sox

He has asked to be traded before, and the Sox have tried to trade him before, so why not again? Ramirez still has three years and upwards of $60 million left on his contract, which is the No. 1 reason his act has worn thin with Boston's front office.

Destination known? Boston could swap him to the Mets for Carlos Beltran and come out ahead financially. It's unlikely, however, that the Mets are ready to move Beltran, the prize of last year's free-agent market. Then there are the Yankees, who will be shopping for a center fielder. Guess that rules out Manny.

2 Alfonso Soriano, 2B, Rangers

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Although he has averaged 35 homers and 31 steals the past four years, his name comes up in trade talks whenever there are trade talks. But with his free-agent days looming, his value might be at its peak for the Rangers.

Destination known? The Twins need a power bat and help in the infield, and they can spare some pitching, which is the Rangers' perennial need.

3 Ken Griffey, CF, Reds

The Reds have too many outfielders, so why not deal the one who makes the most money?

Destination known?The Yankees would not be scared of Griffey's inflated contract, which has at least three years left on it, but the White Sox probably would have more to offer the Reds. Because Griffey must approve any deal, it's just as likely he'll stay in Cincinnati.

4 Jim Thome, 1B, Phillies

Ryan Howard gives the Phillies a lefthanded-hitting power threat at first who is 10 years younger than Thome, who has battled a hand injury all season. Oh, and Thome is owed $40.5 million over the next three years.

Destination known? An American League team with payroll to burn that needs a power-hitting designated hitter would be the most logical candidate. How about the Orioles?

5 Mike Lowell, 3B, Marlins

With three key young players--Josh Beckett, Juan Pierre and Dontrelle Willis--up for arbitration and no stadium deal in sight, something has to give for the cash-strapped Marlins. Lowell, who proved untradeable in July, is owed $18 million over the next two seasons.

Destination known? The Red Sox have the resources to make a deal. If the Angels aren't sure of Dallas McPherson's health, they have enough prospects to satisfy the Marlins. The Dodgers showed an interest two years ago and will be shopping for a third baseman.--K.B.

Top 5: players who could be traded in the offseason

Sporting News, The, Oct 14, 2005

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