Rumors

Along with the Brian Roberts speculation, some internet whackos are presenting the following rumors.....

Jason Marquis to Seattle for Willie Bloomquist or Jeremy Reed and the always sought after Player To Be Named Later.

Not sure what to make of this one, no big pickup here and lose some pitching depth. Certainly not the plus that the Brian Roberts acquisition provides. On the other hand, Marquis is not a huge loss, especially at his salary. Don't get me wrong, I liked the Marquis acquisition initially, but he's not untradable. Bloomquist would certainly be a backup for DeRosa (and no better than Theriot) and Reed is likely no better than the recently departed Pagan and certainly not as viable, at this point, as Pie and Fuld.

and...


Sean Marshall and R. Cedeno to Oakland for Mark Ellis and Alan Embree.

I happen to like Ellis, though on the face of it he really is not hugely better than Bloomquist. Embree obviously provides a solid, veteran lefty arm in the pen. However, I don't know that this makes too much sense either.

It only seems viable if they are moving parts to put something together for a bigger deal. Otherwise, I would rather see them go with the current roster. However, there is always something to be said for new environs. Perhaps a swap of young, unrealized talent is just what both parties need to spark something for the youngsters.

I haven't seen this confirmed in any way, so it's all just random bar talk anyhow.