Not that long ago, the idea that Boston needed to seriously upgrade its bullpen and third base holes was scoffed at in the mainstream sports media. For example, back on June 24th
we advocated for acquiring Michael Young. It was pooh-poohed. Now,
it's conventional wisdom that Young is a real target. As the Sox limp through their west coast swing, more and more injuries and deficiencies are showing up.
Andrew Miller is gone for the year with foot surgery. Minor injuries to
Shane Victorino and
Jacoby Ellsbury kept them both out of last night's line-up. And a serious power shortage from the right-side (read:
Mike Napoli) is making the Yawkey Way brain trust a little jittery. Trades are in play for: Young and/or
Jonathan Papelbon from the Phillies; reliever
Matt Thornton and/or outfiielder
Alex Rios from the White Sox; outfielder
Giancarlo Stanton and/or reliever
Steve Cishek from the Miami Marlins. Look for your Carmine Hose to be
very active before the deadline.
