With one Willie out the door, are the Sox looking to bring another one in to fill their desire for more speed?
Last week MLBTradeRumors reported that the Sox were exploring a Contreras for Willy Taveras trade. I didn't link it here, because, well, I don't like spreading rumors -- My mother taught me not to talk behind people's backs -- Now that the Astros have signed Preston Wilson, however, I think we may have to give some credence to these rumors.
The Astros now have 8 players(Lane, Bagwell, Biggio, Berkman, Burke, Taveras, Lamb, & Wilson) to fill 5 positions (2B, 1B, LF, RF, & CF). I suppose if you consider Bagwell as just a glorified pinch hitter, the Astros could carry all of them, though I think it's unlikely. Crawfish Boxes thinks Lane is the odd man out.
Another Sox trade may not be imminent, however, as the Baltimore Sun reports that the Astros are now one of the top three teams contending for Tejada. With Burnitz shunning the O's to play for the Bucs, and the Astros signing of Wilson, it would appear that both Corky and Taveras are available.
Also, Scott Merkin of Chisox.com echoes our sentiments about the Sox rotation, right down to his surprise on the Garland signing.