The Sox needs in my opinion
-Utility OF
-Bullpen arm
-Speed off the bench
-Starter depending on Schilling's health
I really don't think the Sox need to pursue a trade at the deadline, I think they have what they need in the minors at this time.
Ellsbury: would fill two rolls, Utility OF and speed off the bench
Buchholz: I believe can be the other bullpen arm, lets not forget we still have Donnelly coming back from an injury as well (Although it looks like he's going to be out a lot longer than first expected) Timlin has also been very effective since coming back from his stint on the DL, it looks like he's got things straighten out/
Lester: could be that starting pitcher if need be, although it looks like Gabbard is making his case to stay in the rotation once the Big Schil returns. I think Gabbard makes sense, send Tavarez to the pen, which gives us two long guys, and in Gabbard, we have a lefty starter.
Guys that could be Traded
Wily Mo Pena: Just isn't going to get the at bats he needs to continue to develop in Boston, is a real liability in the OF for defense
Coco Crisp: With Ellsbury being the future in the OF for the Sox, they could move Crisp as his value seems to be on the up with his recent play. I don't see this happening, especially considering the outstanding defense he has played this year, Ellsbury's not ready for a full time gig down the stretch.
Names that have been thrown around that the Sox may pursue
Brad Lidge: certainly would be a setup man for the Sox either the 7th or the 8th. I think the injury issues as well as a proven thing in Okijima so far this season along with the emergence of Delcarmen in the last few weeks make this move unnecessary. It would really depend on what the Astros were seeking in return.
Eric Gagne: Has shown good form this season in Texas, not sure he would want to be in a set up role instead of a closer situation. He would strengthen the end of the game for the Sox no doubt, Okijima, Gagne and Papelbon, wow that would be lights out. 29.1 innings, 1.23 ERA, 14 saves, 25 K's, Opponent's hitting just .157 off of him. Gagne is an immense talent, however he has been limited by injury problems. He comes at a large cost as well $6 Million.
Scott Linebrink: The Sox have coveted Linebrink for many years now. The Sox and Padres have been known to make a deal in the past, so it wouldn't be a surprise to see it happen again. The Padres need offense, so a deal for Wily Mo and another guy make get the deal done. Linebrink has been solid this year 42.1 innings, 2.55 ERA, 2-2 23K's. Opponent's hitting just .228 off of him. He also comes at a much cheaper at a cheaper price, he makes just over 2 million a year
Ken Griffey Jr. This would be a long shot at best, The Sox could use a bat like Griffey's in the lineup especially if J.D. Drew continues to struggle and get injured every other day, but I don't see this deal happening unless Papi needs a break because of his knee.
Rob Mackowiak: This is a guy I could see coming over, the White Sox are going to be sellers at the deadline. The Sox don't have room for a full time player so someone like Mackowiak would make sense, he can play LF/RF and also has played in the infield at 3B and 1B. He would be a better option than Wily Mo and Hinske in the OF. He's got a decent bat.
Kevin Millar: Not sure why his name has been brought up lately, the Sox fans couldn't wait for him to leave during his last stint with the Sox. He looks to have refound his swing in Baltimore, but we don't need Millar back in town, although the fans down the left field line might, as that means more souvenirs for them.
I think Theo made has made it clear that the Sox don't plan on trading away their top talent in the minors, I can't see the Sox making any moves with Ellsbury, Buchholz, Bowden at this time.
I think the Red Sox may make a move at the deadline, but it won't be a major deal unless Schilling's rehab proves he won't be ready later than projected. Have to wait and see things will certainly be heating up in the next few weeks.
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