Here we go again. The Seattle Mariners continue to be mentioned in trade rumors, and for some reason they continue to be linked to pitchers. Here is the latest:
Sources:#Marinershave called on#RedSox’s Lester. SEA has been on Price. Lester lower acquisition cost, native of Tacoma, Wa.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal)July 28, 2014
First it was constantDavid Pricechatter, and nowJon Lester‘s name is coming up. Seriously? Another starting pitcher?
Look, I get it. You can never have enough starting pitching.Felix HernandezandHisashi Iwakumaare awesome andChris Younghas been surprising effective all year, but beyond that there are some questions.Taijuan Walkerlooks a bit shaky.James Paxtonisn’t back yet and could have a cloudy health future.Roenis Eliasmay hit a wall at some point.
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In other words, there could be a spot for Lester. The problem is that the ace of the Boston Red Sox would most likely be a rental. I don’t care if he is from Tacoma. Lester has been with the BoSox his whole career and he indicated that he could see himself goingback thereafter the season. So much for Boston negotiating from a position of strength.
Are the Mariners one starting pitcher away from a deep run in the playoffs? Not exactly.
Despite Lester’s recent comments, Boston is not going to give him away. This means that the Mariners may need to cough up a premium prospect or two. Or three.
In addition, acquiring Lester will not help the offense, which is still lacking in one or two bats. Or three.
Yes,Dustin Ackleyhas been looking good over the last couple of weeks. Sure,Kendrys Moralesmay eventually figure it out and be effective. Unfortunately, neither of those realities are particularly assuring at this point.
Jack Zduriencik can certainly pick up the phone and chat with the Red Sox. However, he should be careful. There are bigger needs on this team, and great pitching alone will not carry this club to the playoffs.
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