ESPN’s Steve Phillips is reporting that the Red Sox are in conversations with the Arizona Diamondbacks surrounding a Julio Lugo for Eric Byrnes swap. Byrnes is due $11 million dollars in 2009 and 2010 and would be brought in to replace Coco Crisp in the fourth outfielder role. He could also, in theory, provide some coverage in the outfield in 2010 should the Red Sox and Jason Bay part ways after this season.
This deal would likely not involve the Red Sox absorbing any of Julio Lugo’s contract. Lugo is due $9 million dollars in both 2009 and 2010.
With the Red Sox apparent waning interest in Rocco Baldelli and their desire to move Julio Lugo, I think this rumor has merit.
I also wouldn’t be surprised to see Arizona catcher Miguel Montero added to this mix in a larger deal involving a young Red Sox pitcher.
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