News
By Dan Mennella / MLB.com
07/31/10 3:30 AM ET
Here is the latest from MLB.com's Trade Buzz blog as today's 4 p.m. ET non-waiver Trade Deadline approaches:The Yankees were the headliners late Friday and early into Saturday morning, completing one swap and having another, more substantial, deal in place.
The Bronx Bombers acquired outfielder Austin Kearns from the Indians in exchange for a player to be named, but the big splash was the news that they were on the verge of bringing aboard slugging first baseman Lance Berkman from the Astros.
The Big Puma would presumably become the Yanks' designated hitter, what with Mark Teixeira, a deft defensive player, being entrenched at first base. Kearns, meanwhile, provides a sturdy bat off the bench and a defensive upgrade over incumbent fourth outfielder/DH Marcus Thames.
Here's more ...
• Baseball sources told MLB.com's Steve Gilbert that the D-backs and Pirates have a deal in place to move veteran catcher Chris Snyder from Arizona to Pittsburgh. The potential move would further signify the D-backs' overhaul as they continue to shed pricey veterans under the stewardship of interim GM Jerry DiPoto. The emergence of Miguel Montero, Snyder's penchant for injury and his sizable salary have perhaps made him expendable to Arizona.
• With Jason Bay officially going to the disabled list, it all but assures the Mets will not move Jeff Francoeur, at least not prior to the non-waiver Trade Deadline. Francoeur will serve as the Mets' right fielder, while Angel Pagan and Carlos Beltran man left and center, respectively.
• The Marlins remain open to dealing outfielder Cody Ross despite the vacancy created by Chris Coghlan's recent injury. The Braves, fellow residents of National League East, are interested in acquiring Ross for outfield depth. Florida has already moved one veteran, shipping Jorge Cantu, and may continue to do so as it looks to clear salary and further develop its stable of young talent.
Dan Mennella is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
