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Teixeira in play....at least until Papi shows he's healthy

Posted by Gordon Edes, Globe Staff July 14, 2008 04:11 PM

NEW YORK -- The Red Sox have talked to the Braves about free-agent-to-be first baseman Mark Teixeira, and more conversations are likely to take place before the July 31 trading deadline, according to well-placed major league sources.

ESPN's Peter Gammons was the first to report that the talks had taken place, and it is true that the Braves asked for first baseman Kevin Youkilis and Craig Hansen in return. Would the Sox make that deal? Not at the moment, but the message they left with the Braves was keep us in mind. The Braves, according to those sources, have their doubts that the Sox would move Youkilis, because of his ability to play both first and third and his defensive skills at both positions.

And if David Ortiz proves he's healthy on his rehab assignment, the Sox may hold off on any pursuit of Teixeira until after the season, when he's a free agent. The other key factor: The Braves have yet to decide if they're going to trade Teixeira; if they're still within striking distance of first place in the NL East as the deadline nears, they may back off. Atlanta is currently 45-50 and in fourth place in the NL East, 6 1/2 games back of first-place Philly.

Other trade talk here: The Phillies reportedly are trying to make a deal for Toronto's A.J. Burnett, and a whole bunch of teams -- Tampa Bay, Philly, Yankees -- have interest in Rockies lefty reliever Brian Fuentes.

99 comments so far...
  1. I would not trade this guy for Youk even up let alone throw in Hansen. Maybe Crisp for a guy who will be a free agent.

    Posted by FlaBoSox July 14, 08 05:27 PM
  1. Noooooooooooooooooooo!

    Posted by Jeremy July 14, 08 05:29 PM
  1. give up Youk??? Why??? i am not the smartest guy in the world, but that doesnt make sense to me

    Posted by dswenson July 14, 08 05:29 PM
  1. 1 very good player and 1 decent prospect for a rental....I dont think we need to pull a GAGNE :)

    Posted by joe July 14, 08 05:31 PM
  1. KEEP YOUR HANDS ON YOUK, YOU DIRTY NL!!!!

    Posted by beth July 14, 08 05:34 PM
  1. Please Dont insult us with this crap.. lets have some real sport writing instead of this idiot babble ..There is no way Theo dumps YouK for Tex in the middle of the year..Youk makes 3 mil Tex 15 mil..You can get Tex in the off season.. Youk is a 3 postion player who is a fan favorite..Hanson stinks why would Braves want him It seems the reporters are at the beach with dumbass guy Butch Stearns making up stories as the apply lotion on each other

    Posted by Duffdaddy July 14, 08 05:35 PM
  1. Umm...I guess technically there are people I would trade Youkilis for if I thought about it real hard, but Mark Teixeira isn't one of them.

    Posted by Paul July 14, 08 06:00 PM
  1. The Sox should have stopped thinking about Teixeira as soon as they signed Mike Lowell to a contract. They should be happy with the team they have on the field right now. Unless Youkilis is a poison in the clubhouse (which he may be, but probably not), the Sox should keep him.

    Posted by Mike Tremblay July 14, 08 06:04 PM
  1. Are you crazy?? Trade Kevin Youkllis? Do you want to re-instate the 'curse?' i wouldn't trade Kevin for A-Rod in a straight-up deal, 1:1.

    Leave the team alone except for getting a solid short-stop who can hit 250--anything more is gravy. May Julio languish in rehab: he's already cost us too many games.

    And of course if there's a solid middle-reliever out there . . . grab him. (though I do think Masterson is going to shine in that role.)

    Posted by Tim Woods July 14, 08 06:12 PM
  1. i think we all know sox brass is not dumb enough to trade Youk for a player who is a free agent after this year. Peter Gammons has lost alot of my respect with his, "reports" lately. Give us some substance Peter.

    Posted by Joe July 14, 08 06:22 PM
  1. This is RIDICULOUS.......Kevin Youkilis is the STARTING AL all star firstbaseman for a reason....he is a GREAT player with a GREAT attitude.....His power is increasing each year, he always improves his game A 315 hitter with power great fielder, can play anywhere not JUST first like Teixera....Right now YOUK is a betrter player than Teixeravat 1/5 the salary.....Crazy....Hansen stinks they can have this choke up hot dog.....Hansen, Crisp, and Lowrie for Teixera

    Posted by harvey July 14, 08 06:42 PM
  1. Theo has a reputation of not making dumb deals---he would never trade Youk for Texeira. He would ruin his rep.

    Posted by Bill Brooks July 14, 08 06:43 PM
  1. Youk and Pedroia are the heart of this time. You would be crazy to trade either.

    Posted by j July 14, 08 06:45 PM
  1. Gammons is losing credibility with this reporting.

    Posted by Bill Lyons July 14, 08 06:45 PM
  1. The only move in a dream world would be Youkilous for Hanley Ramirez... Not that it's going to happen.

    Lugo has speed, which offsets his offensive production gap. Thus, it's best to leave it alone. Plus the Sox have young kids coming up.

    The Sox are fine where they are. Why would they unload an All Star clutch player who gold gloves two positions for a 1st baseman who is overpaid and less flexible in the field?

    They could use a better shortsop but they've proven that they can win with pitching and a healthy line-up at the 1-7 batting positions in the playoffs. Don't mess with chemistry.

    Posted by BillinTX July 14, 08 06:48 PM
  1. At this time , Youk has better stats, he does everything they ask of him, and Teixeira will be there in the off season. Get a back up catcher , and bullpen help.

    Posted by Ryan T. Massey July 14, 08 06:55 PM
  1. Giving up Youk in a trade will not benefit the Sox in anyway. One of the most important characteristics in a player is his never say die attitude and Youk has that. I wouldn't trade him for A-Rod for that matter.

    Posted by fjorge July 14, 08 07:02 PM
  1. Type your comment here...

    Posted by paul buckley July 14, 08 07:02 PM
  1. I think right now we need a lefty in the pen and possibly a right handed hitter off the bench who can hit lefties. I don't think any starter is available that would help us, Burnett maybe but I don't want to give up the farm for possible two months, plus his love for the D.L. is to well known.

    Posted by sean norton July 14, 08 07:04 PM
  1. A lot of emotion, from fans, regarding Youkilis but I would pull that trade in a heartbeat if they can sign Teixeira past this year. He is a better hitter, especially in the second half, than Youkilis, he is better defensively, and he protects Manny, and the rest of the lineup, if Ortiz's injury is lasting.

    As for reintroducing the curse if the trade Youkilis..um...the Red Sox did fine breaking the curse without Youkilis, why would trading him bring back the curse...more emotional fans.

    As for Lugo..the Red Sox will not trade for "another" SS as long as Jed Lowrie can prove he can play..which he has.

    I feel the few things that is against the trade is the money, which the Sox do not have any problem spending at times, and the versitility of Youkilis who can spell multiple players during the hotter summer days. But Youkilis has had the tendency to breakdown in the second half s he will need much nurturing as well..hello Sean Casey.

    Posted by Garett July 14, 08 07:06 PM
  1. I can't believe what some of the "fans" posting here are saying. Are you kidding? Youk/Hansen for Teixeira is a GREAT deal. Now, I'll grant them that "renting" him could be a problem if he garners a lot of attention in the off-season and the Sox lose out...that's a huge consideration. But Youk is not even in the same category as Teixeira. Let's just look at the numbers. From '04-08 Youk has played 496 games. He has 490 hits, 52 HRs 262 RBI, a .286 avg. and an .840 OPS. Contrast that with Teixeira's stretch between '03-'08: 840 games, 906 hits, 187 HRs, 624 RBI and, .284. avg. and a .904 OPS. It's not even close. Hansen is erratic and won't ever be an All-Star. Besides, Youk is the Paul O'Neil of the Sox and you all know it. He's such a baby. He's a real embarrassment. Not a role model. I would not want my son or daughter looking up to Youk as a sports figure. He's a baby. Teixeira is the real deal with Hall of Fame potential. Ask yourself is Youk has that future.

    Posted by era July 14, 08 07:08 PM
  1. People, read the article first before bashing it. It said:

    "...the Braves asked for first baseman Kevin Youkilis and Craig Hansen in return."

    That is what the Braves asked for, not what the Sox offered. Relax, the Sox won't do it. It is a starting point, and obviously the Braves will ask for something really good to begin. They aren't going to start asking for Crisp and prospects (which might be what happens). They will ask for a an All Start/ML producer. To condemn the reporters here (Edes and Gammons, two of the best) is a joke.

    Posted by John July 14, 08 07:08 PM
  1. Red Sox fans crack me up. When Youk first came up with the Sox, all of you so-called fans hated him. You all nicknamed him "You-kill-us" as he learned the ropes with the Sox. Now he's a "fan favorite"? Give me a break you fair weather "fans." Either your players are in your family or they're not. I bet you all love JD Drew now don't you? Hilarious.

    Posted by The Simpleton July 14, 08 07:11 PM
  1. Well I think Gammons is only reporting what the braves asked for. They may have asked for Youk and Hansen, that doesn't mean they are going to get them. Gammons is just reporting what they asked for.

    Posted by Devin July 14, 08 07:12 PM
  1. Nuts!!!!!!!!

    Posted by R. Scott July 14, 08 07:15 PM
  1. This is maaaaaadnesssss, this is blasphemy, this is not the redsox way, THIS IS REDSOX NATION, we are not going to trade with the Persians, let alone the Braves. So, to hell with whoever is bringing this news, they can shove it reaaaaaaaaaaallllllllllyyyy deeeeeeeeep, and wait till next year to pull it out again, LOL

    Posted by Nyakeh Konneh July 14, 08 07:17 PM
  1. Duff Daddy speaks the truth, ESPECIALLY about the reporting. It would be great if the internet didnt facilitate these rumours that catch fire and run away with themselves.

    Posted by corey reidy July 14, 08 07:17 PM
  1. No way would I make this trade for a player that can be had in the off season, and you won't have to give up anything. Lets not forget the Gagne deal, or the Jeff Suppan deal too. Now if your going to make a deal for a player who's contact does not expire at the end of the year then I would consider it, but really only if Ortiz is not able to come back.
    Lets keep our prospects and give them a chance.

    Posted by Peter July 14, 08 07:19 PM
  1. Until you all can put HOF after your signature, you'd be wise to show some respect to Gammons.

    He didn't say the Red Sox were going to trade Youk and Hansen for Teixiera. He said they inquired about Teixiera and that, in response, the Braves said it would take Youk and Hansen for them to make that trade. The Red Sox then backed off but didn't close the door to future discussions. It makes sense the Sox would ask, it makes sense the Braves would ask for a lot in return (at least to start), it makes sense for the Sox to keep an open line of communication, and it makes sense for Gammons to have reported on all of this.

    Posted by djb July 14, 08 07:19 PM
  1. If Manny wants Youk gone, hes gone! We do what Manny wants to keep him happy!!! Get rid of that traveling secretary too!!!

    Posted by Matt July 14, 08 07:19 PM
  1. REMBER BABE RUTH AND HARRY FRAZEE! can you deal with another drought?

    Posted by Jose July 14, 08 07:23 PM
  1. Totally ridiculous. No way Theo is that stupid! I wouldn't trade Youk even up for Mark T--a crazy idea, cooked up by a cockamamie journalist.

    Posted by Robert Bell July 14, 08 07:23 PM
  1. Wouldn't trade Youk for A-Rod? Wow. What a nitwit.

    Posted by OC July 14, 08 07:27 PM
  1. Youk will be going no where. Wake up all!!! LOL.

    Posted by Joe Dubiel July 14, 08 07:29 PM
  1. The Sox BETTER be thinking of seriously acquiring Texiera..

    With Manny aging and his numbers dropping, Papi could be injury prone , we have no power bats in the system, this guy would be a good fit here..

    Switch hitter with POWER- we would HATE to see Tex wearing pinstripes next year so the Sox should MAKE A DEAL FOR TEXEIRA HAPPEN SOON!!

    BUT NOT for Youk..Crisp and Hansen YES..provided we can sign Tex to a long term deal as well.

    hey- Atlanta usually does alright when it comes to trading- beware ..

    Posted by Tony July 14, 08 07:32 PM
  1. If you wouldn't trade Youk straight up for ARod, you're a complete moron. I'm a huge fan of Youk, but I can easily say that ARod's the best player in baseball and would only make this team better.

    Posted by Bill July 14, 08 07:41 PM
  1. I think everyone is all getting a little crazy. Remember what happened with Santana? This is just a ploy to drive up the price for the Rays/Yankees. Youklis is MONEYBALL, no way Theo makes that trade, especially after the debacle with Gagne last year. Youk is an all-star now remember?

    Posted by Seth July 14, 08 07:42 PM
  1. you guys are nuts...youk has limited power and its only a matter of time before his hand breaks from a HBP. tex, even if he's a rental, gives you some much needed power. go get him

    Posted by dcott July 14, 08 07:43 PM
  1. I'm not foolish enough to try to convince anybody that Youk is better than Texeria but here are their current numbers:

    AB R H 2B HR RBI BB SO BA OBP SLG OPS
    Youkilis 328 56 103 25 15 63 32 61 .314 .381 .552 .933
    Teixeira 347 54 94 23 17 69 55 64 .271 .373 .484 .858

    Based on this info it isn't a good short term deal and definitely isn't a good long term deal.


    Posted by James O'Leary July 14, 08 07:43 PM
  1. Um....trade Youk? Now?? With the season he is having??? With the career he will have????? No way Theo is cosidering that! Whoever wrote that is an idiot.

    Posted by Bob F. July 14, 08 07:44 PM
  1. Not Youk.. He is a far superior player to Teixeria. Hopefully Theo has more sense than that.

    Posted by SoxSANFRAN July 14, 08 07:49 PM
  1. Youk is a career first-half player. Tex is known as an explosive second-half player. However, Youk has one of the best corner position gloves in the game. He's arbitration eligible next season. Texeira's salary is 12.5, which is still about 33% less than J.D. Drew.

    Craig Hansen has been the "closer of the future" for about 3 years now; and frankly, he hasn't really improved. Average control and command with any plus fastball is quite worthless in the major leagues. The bullpen is already tight, with Masterson in the wings to step in if necessary.

    The Red Sox would be insane not to let this trade happen. Texeira is a bona-fide elite hitter in his prime. Can you imagine this Red Sox lineup with him in the heart of that lineup? Unfathomable.

    Surely the organization can afford this based solely on their sales of nearly $9 plastic cups of beer and seventy billion pink Red Sox hats floating around the nation. Money isn't an issue here

    Don't screw this opportunity up, management. As for Youk being a "fan favorite," he most certainly is. However, don't forget that it doesn't mean a thing to the front office (Nomar, Bronson???). I love Youk's intensity and deft glovework as much as anybody, but would be a steal if the Sox can pull this one off. Do it. This is a no brainer, Sox fans.

    Posted by ryan July 14, 08 07:50 PM
  1. "There is no way Theo dumps YouK for Tex in the middle of the year."

    Theo made the deal for Gagne last year. He apparently makes his decisions by throwing a pile of baseball cards in the air, and whichever ones land on his desk, he gets. I wouldn't put this deal past him.

    Posted by Spike July 14, 08 07:50 PM
  1. Youk is a career first-half player. Tex is known as an explosive second-half player. However, Youk has one of the best corner position gloves in the game. He's arbitration eligible next season. Texeira's salary is 12.5, which is still about 33% less than J.D. Drew.

    Craig Hansen has been the "closer of the future" for about 3 years now; and frankly, he hasn't really improved. Average control and command with any plus fastball is quite worthless in the major leagues. The bullpen is already tight, with Masterson in the wings to step in if necessary.

    The Red Sox would be insane not to let this trade happen. Texeira is a bona-fide elite hitter in his prime. Can you imagine this Red Sox lineup with him in the heart of that lineup? Unfathomable.

    Surely the organization can afford this based solely on their sales of nearly $9 plastic cups of beer and seventy billion pink Red Sox hats floating around the nation. Money isn't an issue here

    Don't screw this opportunity up, management. As for Youk being a "fan favorite," he most certainly is. However, don't forget that it doesn't mean a thing to the front office (Nomar, Bronson???). I love Youk's intensity and deft glovework as much as anybody, but would be a steal if the Sox can pull this one off. Do it. This is a no brainer, Sox fans.

    Posted by Ryan July 14, 08 08:01 PM
  1. It's a myth that Mark Teixeira is good. He can't hit off-speed pitches and looks silly at times. I get ready for a night of laughter when he faces Cole Hamels.

    Posted by Peanut Man July 14, 08 08:26 PM
  1. What Tex has already shown what he can do, is far better than Youk's best season. I would only make this deal if Tex signed an extension. We really aint missing much on the defense side really. Except Tex cant play 3rd... I think.

    Everyone is right, Youk is obviously loved, but Tex isn't just some chump. I think he would thrive in a big market place. As for Hansen, I am surprised that they didn't ask for a Delcarmen or someone unproven like Bard, but I guess Hansen still shows his stuff from time to time that gets people excited. He does have the perfect structure for an elite closer. I/e Isringhausen, Lidge, Nathan, Papelbon, and Ryan for some examples.


    Posted by RJ July 14, 08 08:31 PM
  1. that is what the Braves want not what the sox are willing to deal.

    Posted by bauerpower July 14, 08 08:38 PM
  1. youk has hit his prime! Trade him while his value is high. Get ready for his second half slump!

    Posted by Shane B. July 14, 08 08:54 PM
  1. I'm sorry why is this bad reporting? Gammons said that the Braves ASKED for Youk and hansen in return.
    If that's a fact ... why is it not of substance or newsworthy? I find it comforting that the Sox said no... but I don't think it was poor reporting on Gammons's part.


    Posted by Jay July 14, 08 09:01 PM
  1. What a bunch of yahoos here!
    Do you remember when the Sox wouldn't trade Trot Nixon for Sammy Sosa?
    Same deal here. Red Sox fans always over rate their own players.
    Have any of you looked at the second half career stats for Youkilis?
    He sucks in the second half. Teixeira has a ton of power and has one TWO gold gloves. Youkiliis is a good player not great.
    Wake up Sox fans and do your homework.
    You obviously are only Sox fans and not baseball fans.
    I'm a diehard Red Sox fan that is realistic.

    Posted by Eric July 14, 08 09:15 PM
  1. edes, this is like you missing longoria a couple of weeks ago as the mid season ROY in your Sunday column. (nice job by the way)

    why would you even write this? Texiera having a pretty crumby yr to his standards, Youk is having a career year. oh, and by the way, not sure if you remember, the Sox signed Lowell to a new deal this past winter, so he's at 3rd, Youk's at first..Papi's at DH. Why would they pursue Tex in the offseason as a free agent? SS? C'mon Edes, you're awful

    Posted by You're awful July 14, 08 09:36 PM
  1. I can see the Sox having some interest in Tex in the event Papi's injury lingers. I can even see Tex perhaps replacing Manny's bat next year if they don't want to spend another $20 mil on a 37 year old. But I can't see them letting Youk who only costs $3 mil go for this guy as that could be viewed as a "wash" at best and wouldn't address Papi's prolonged absence from the lineup. Any midseason trade is going to involve prospects, maybe Crisp, or hopefully Lugo but none of their core guys.

    Posted by BBQ Spikey July 14, 08 09:52 PM
  1. Everyone needs to come down. The piece didn't say that the Sox offered Youk and Hansen it said that the Braves asked for them. Big differnence.

    Posted by Chris July 14, 08 09:55 PM
  1. No need to insult Peter Gammons. He is just reporting what he has learned. He is not advocating the trade. Its all part of negotiating. Atlanta starts out high. The Sox may or may not counter. Theo and Co. are not that dumb. Sometimes you folks need to take a deep breath and read the blog a couple of times before you respond.

    Posted by Paul July 14, 08 10:01 PM
  1. Teixeira is a parasite in the clubhouse. No way

    Posted by celtsoxtx July 14, 08 10:08 PM
  1. seems that the writer has accomplished objective. please lets agree to not even comment on these rot piles in the future... then they will go away.

    Posted by jjnchfc July 14, 08 10:14 PM
  1. I would keep Youk for defense, tops at 1st an third in the leauge.

    Posted by David Jordan July 14, 08 10:26 PM
  1. Teix..whatever...is a waste of time for the Red Sox...Leave it alone and let the team play as professionals as they always are..and to the sports writers...lets at least act like adults...thank you...

    Posted by john james July 14, 08 10:38 PM
  1. Are you freaking kidding me.............I don't think Steve Phillips would make this move and we know how bad he was as a GM with the Mets. Youk is what people are all about in Boston. A hard nose tough player theat will play anywhere you put him. This guy would be a rental anyway. Let's hope Lugo dies during rehab and we can get a descent SS. I would rather see Nomar play there once a week because his twat hurts rather than Lugo.

    Posted by JScan July 14, 08 10:41 PM
  1. trade the team go ray yankee

    Posted by yank1 fan July 14, 08 10:47 PM
  1. shut the up and stop worrying!!!! Epstien isn't on anything and isn't that stupid. Youk will be kept and there is no room for tex in boston!

    Posted by fat daddy 329 July 14, 08 10:48 PM
  1. Manny's option will not be picked up, his money is going to the 29yr Teixeira. So, Youk may be traded in the off season (can he play LF?). And #9 Tim, if the deal was Youk for Arod John Henry would drive him to NY. It's great to be a SOX fan, but remember, a good GM doesn't fall in love with the players. And we are playing GM when talking trades.

    Posted by PJL July 14, 08 11:05 PM
  1. Considering that the team has had to have meetings about Youkilis' childish/selfish behavior it is not a stretch to think they would trade him for a player like Mark Teixeira. Considering they are basically the same age and Teixeira is a far superior age, it would be a good deal for both teams - finances withstanding.

    Posted by Mike July 14, 08 11:08 PM
  1. Gammons is off his rocker. He's drinking the ESPN Kool Aid!

    Posted by Eddie Romero July 14, 08 11:09 PM
  1. I'm pretty sure part of the agreement is Teixeira has to sign a long term deal. Just because Youk is a "fan favorite" has no bearing on Theo's decision, so that should be thrown out. Nomar was a fan favorite and he was bounced. If Hansen is so bad, then why not dump him? I'm not saying the Sox should pull the trigger on this trade, but Teixeira is a much better offensive threat then Youk. Youk is hot now, but if I recollect correctly he has put up Mendoza Line-ish numbers in the 2nd half during his short career. Maybe this should be ignored, maybe it shouldn't.

    Posted by Rusty Phillips July 14, 08 11:31 PM
  1. No-brainer if you can agree to an extension.

    Posted by Jesse July 14, 08 11:42 PM
  1. I would highly doubt that anything HALL OF FAMER Peter Gammons reports is without substance. The guy has more contacts than the Manhattan phone book. This is merely the notion that the Red Sox are looking at options should Ortiz suffer a setback during rehab.

    Plus, dumber trades have been made. See: P Heathcliff Slocumb traded from BOS to SEA for C Jason Varitek (captain of the 2004 and 2007 WS Champions) and P Derek Lowe (winner of all three deciding games in the 2004 Playoffs). And, that trade actually happened.

    Posted by Sam July 14, 08 11:47 PM
  1. Keep in mind that it was the BRAVES who asked for Youk. It's not like the Red Sox are offering him up. Geez, people, relax. Do you really think our owners would make such a deal? Of course not. The Braves, or any other team, have the right to at least ask - as ridiculous as their request might be.

    Posted by Joey July 14, 08 11:53 PM
  1. ya if he cant play SS we dont need him. like the other guy said please someone that can get on base at a .300+ clip atleast. other requirements necessary: must be able to catch the white thing with red laces wrapped around it.

    Posted by Steven R July 14, 08 11:57 PM
  1. Everybody get ahold of yourselves. Tex over his career hits twice as many HR and drives in about 30 more runs than Youk, with similar AVG and OBP. Granted Youk is off to a good start this year, but he generally drops off during the second half. You couldn't get Tex even up for Youk - you'd have to include something else, another quality player or prospect. I'm not saying I'd do this trade, but it's not ridiculous. It's something to think about if you find you have to replace Ortiz. I assume the Sox wouldn't do the deal without a window of opportunity to sign Tex to a long term deal.

    Posted by Tom July 14, 08 11:57 PM
  1. In case you other posters failed to notice. They didn't do the trade. And they probably won't. The Braves asking for Youk doesn't mean the sox offered.

    Posted by costumeguy July 15, 08 12:41 AM
  1. No need to get fiesty.....Keep in mind that the story is the Sox asked what Atlanta was looking for in a deal, and ATLANTA said Youkilis. Boston is not placing Youk on the block or anything like that....at least according to the story. You'd think after the Gagne deal last year Theo will be a little gunshy this year.

    Posted by matt July 15, 08 12:41 AM
  1. Umm, I'm not sure I understand all the vitriol here. It's deadline time. We all know what that means, right? Teams talk. About A LOT of things. The vast majority of them don't come to fruition. I mean, think about how much stuff we DON'T hear about.

    The Sox are missing Papi, and who knows what he's going to be able to contribute this season? It behooves them to explore options, even if those options are long shots. I like Teixeira a lot. Ultimately, however, I don't like this deal, and I suspect the Sox' front office doesn't either, so let's not lose our heads.

    I actually like Hansen, and think he still has a chance to turn into a good reliever. The guy was pitching in college 2 years ago, and had relatively few games in the minors to mature; give him some time. I'd be willing to bet a fair number of the people who don't like him now are the same people who were screaming for Pedroia's head last May.

    Posted by Eric July 15, 08 01:43 AM
  1. Wait a second. Am I the only one who read this? How is Gammons losing respect with his report? He said the Braves ASKED for Youk and Hansen. It's not like the Sox offered him. The Red Sox asked about him, the Braves said, "We want Youkilis and Hansen," and the Sox said, "No thanks but keep us in mind." Basically, they just want the Braves to keep them on their list if they don't get any great offers for him. Then, maybe the Braves will lower their asking price. It's not like Gammons suggested the Sox offered Youkilis. Heck, I'm sure every time a team tries to make a deal the other team asks for someone ridiculous at first.

    Posted by Dish July 15, 08 01:47 AM
  1. Give up Youk and Hansen for rent-a-Teixeira? Hell no!

    The Sox are good enough to make the World Series this year as long as they trade for a middle reliever. They dont need to do anything insane like this.

    Posted by Chris from Maine July 15, 08 03:01 AM
  1. I think it's a good deal if they can sign him to a decent long-term deal. Youk is a good player but definitely not as good as Teixeira. and also Teixeira is actually younger than youk. but realistically speaking it will cost a lot and you also need to keep in mind they have an excellent 1B prospect in Lars Anderson.

    Posted by Roberto July 15, 08 04:10 AM
  1. I'm an Orioles fan.
    IMHO, if Peter Gammons did report this, he has just lost the respect of knowledgeable baseball fans.
    Even if David Ortiz doesn't make it back this year, the Red Sox with Youkilis is still an elite line-up.
    Boston might not have the smartest mgmt, but they certainly did not become a elite MLB franchise by mistake either....Phew!!!

    Perhaps Mr Gammons is feeling slighted n needed some ego massaging esp during All-Star... along the lines of the Boras breaking news about the A-Rod opt out.

    Posted by jollyroger July 15, 08 05:03 AM
  1. hell yes do it as long as they mark T is a HUGH upgrade and in the fall we can dump Manny and his bad act.Its tired as hell now.

    Posted by bob July 15, 08 05:10 AM
  1. there nuts if they make this trade
    herb k

    Posted by herb kaplan July 15, 08 07:42 AM
  1. First time in my Red Sox life I don't feel the need for a trade.

    Posted by Adam July 15, 08 08:21 AM
  1. I do not know why everybody thinks Youkllis is untradeable. Am I the only person that rembers he dosent show up from Aug-Sept. On the defense side there not a better first baseman, but if I had to pick between Youk and a switchhitter who will give you 30hr and 110 RBI everyyear and his bat get hotter as the year goes I would take Tex. But if I was the redsox I would only make the trade if I was reassured that Boston could sign him to a long tearm deal before they got him.

    Posted by Jason Hatch July 15, 08 08:49 AM
  1. I can see why the Braves would have interest in both Youkilis (very good offense and defense) and Hansen (hard throwing relief pitcher), but it seems like they could do better as the deadline approaches. I expected to see Youkilis' name come up in talks because Texiera and Youkilis play the same position, but would have expected to see Masterson or Bowden in there as well. The Braves could also sweeten the deal by adding Will Ohman (lefty reliever and also a pending free agent), who would be a much better option for the Sox than Lopez. I know there is a lot of talk that Youkilis should be untouchable, but a few weeks back he and Manny had an altercation in the dugout. So maybe there is some validity to Youkilis not being a great clubhouse guy. The Braves have some good outfield and middle infield prospects so I would expect that if they trade Texiera, they would be getting a first baseman and pitching in return.

    Posted by George July 15, 08 09:15 AM
  1. Remember the Sox had Youk on the block for a bag of baseballs just a few years ago. Now that he's having a career year the fans wouldn't trade him for A-Rod. The truth is that Youk is not that good and Hansen is a bust besides Tex would never sign with Boston. Oh yea, snagle tooth Gammons and Theo are butt brothers so the story is probably true.

    Posted by Putzoo July 15, 08 10:40 AM
  1. Why are some of you saying that Peter Gammons is losing credibilty reporting this story? He never said that the Sox would even consider trading Youk for Tex, but only that Atlanta ASKED for Youk as part of the trade. Get a grip people. We all know Theo wouldn't make that trade.

    Posted by Steve July 15, 08 12:30 PM
  1. I would take Tex for Youk. Both players are gold glove players at first the only thing though is that Youk can play 3 positions and tex cant but you are gettting a big clutch power hitter in Tex so what if Tex is a rental just make sure before the trade that if he comes to Boston if he would at the end of the season sign a contract to stay.

    Posted by kyle July 15, 08 01:18 PM
  1. I would trade Hansen in a heartbeat; he has not lived up too his billing.

    Youk, I would never trade at this moment, his avg,OBS are as good as ever and his power is up this season + you have a regular gold glove candiate.

    Posted by Paul Denyer July 15, 08 02:34 PM
  1. Red Sox fans. Are you kidding me? Tex according to ya'll is having a terrible year compared to Youk, but he has more RBI's than anybody on your team, including Youk. With his past as being a second half player ya'll are stupid to not get him on the team in some way. Don't forget that Youk's decent numbers are coming in Fenway Park!! In Turner Field you actually have to hit it hard to get it out in left and right field. Tex would be libel to hit 30 HR's (not likely but possible) in the 2nd half of the season as far as his pop flies carry. He would also be that right handed bat in your line up, that along with Manny, could hit for power against lefties.

    Also, just to throw it out there, the Braves have an extremely talented left handed set up man in Will Ohman that I've heard they are willing to part ways with. Which is another reason I think that these talks are going to heat up. The Sox are in need of some things, and the Brave's look to have talent in all the right places. SS included, minor leaguely.

    Posted by HT July 15, 08 06:19 PM
  1. Youk and Pedoria are the heart of the team! Untouchable!
    If you kept youk and made the trade.Where would you play Tex???

    Posted by geigerdp July 15, 08 08:52 PM
  1. As a Braves fan, I would hate to see Teixeira traded. On the other hand, it would be even worse if he leaves as a free agent after the season. So, in order to keep him away from the money-grubbing hands of Omar Minaya's Mets, it would be best to deal him to an AL team before the July 31 deadline. But Youkilis and Hanson are not enough return -- especially since the Braves traded five top prospects to Texas to get Tex last July.

    Posted by Dan Schlossberg July 16, 08 10:06 AM
  1. Look, Youk and Hansen for Tex is a great trade. For one there are some rumors that Youk could be a little of a problem in the clubhouse. I mean I love his down right dirty play, but Tex could be becoming one of the best young power hitters in the game I mean hes only 28 years old. Youk is a year older and just hitting his stride now? Tex has already proven that he can hit over 40 homers a year if put in a goog ballpark such as Fenway. And Hansen, the "closer of the future" (yea right). Is a bust and will always be a bust. He just doesn't have a that drive or tenacity that you see in premier closers. I would only make this trade, however, if the Sox know they can sign Tex for the long term. If not, well we have some great prospects such as Lars Anderson. Ultimately it will be very intersesting to watch. Oh and by the way, all you people bashing Peter Gammons; A.) Hes a hall of famer for his reporting, something none of you blog arists will even get close to. ande B.) He's just reporting rumors, if you heard a rumor about A-Rod getting traded you would say it has to be proof because thats what you hope for and believer. Leave the man alone hes great.

    Posted by Duece July 16, 08 11:34 AM
  1. I'm a huge Sox fan. However Tex is a switch hitter, second-half perfomer who already has 17 homers, and protection in the lineup for Manny or Big Papi if he is not able to return. I love Youk's D, but you have to give something to get something. If not now, after the season when he's a free agent. However his stock may go up then. Can you say Yanks! Especially with Giambi stuggling and Matsui's injuries, and Damon sub par perfomanace.

    Posted by Chuck Reeves July 16, 08 02:10 PM
  1. How is Tex a parasite in the clubhouse? I'm a Braves fan have not heard of any reports of Tex being a problem.

    Posted by Morty July 16, 08 07:45 PM
  1. hahaha you Sox fans are loyal yet funny bunch!!!! "Youk" is no where near the caliber player TEX is and will become in the future....... i would say the braves are getting the raw end on this one!

    Posted by WD July 16, 08 09:13 PM
  1. I am a diehard Sox fan and don't like the idea of breaking up team chemistry. Aside of the annual salary, a one for one deal is a no-brainer to make this trade. Tex is a year younger than Youk, has put up better numbers on worse teams without having the benefit of hitting behind Papi & Manny.
    Plus, as some papers have reported, Manny isn't the only one that wanted to take a swing at Youk. Just taking the averages of Youk's last two years and all of Tex' career, Tex averages over 19 homers and 33 RBIs more than Youk, with better SLG & OPS. The only thing Youk has more of per year is walks (15) and doubles (2), on average. Tex will be on this team, most likely in the offseason.

    Posted by CAT July 17, 08 01:05 PM
  1. The Red Sox should trade for Matt Holliday before the deadline let Manny go at the end of the year and have Holliday play left. Some of the money they free up can go to signing Teixeira in the offseason so then we have two younger players for around $26 million instead of one for $20 million

    Posted by justin July 17, 08 01:12 PM
  1. With all the recent media attention, I think it is a strong possibility that the Redsox let Manny walk at the end of this season and replace his offense by trading for Texiera and attempting to sign him long term. With Texiera the Redsox gain a young switch hitting power bat, with very good defense at first base and most likely for less money per year than Manny's two 20 million dollar options for the next two years. They already have three very capable outfielders in Crisp, Ellsbury and Drew. Using Ellsbury in left field would be a much better option defensively than using Manny. In a Texiera deal, they would have to give up Youkilis and probably a young pitcher or two (probably Hansen, Bowden). If the Sox can resign Texiera, it would be a great deal. The Sox already have a relationship with Texiera's agent and may be able to work something out. Also, by letting Manny walk and become a free agent, the Sox would gain at least two early round draft picks as compensation for losing him to another team. Not sure how these changes would affect the chemistry though, but Manny is a bit of a distraction anyway.

    Posted by George July 18, 08 09:29 AM
  1. I don't understand why you wouldn't make this deal.. If we came to a long term contract with teixera before the deal was done why wouldn't we???? Teixera has been good for a LONG time and Youk well yes he is youk and he is having an outstanding year but he has had that scruffle with manny and everyone does love him but he hasnt hit more than 16 homers in a year. And he has never really proved himself the way teixera has. He is a work horse and I must give him props for what he has done but he is 29 years old (older than teixera) and craig hansen is junk. I honeslty dont think money is an issue here in Boston.

    Posted by Pg July 18, 08 12:40 PM
  1. It is amazing how Red Sox fans over rated their own players.

    Teixera is a better player thank Youk. Thats nothing against youk, he just is. Teixera has won multiple gold gloves at 1st. Hes a better hitter. Right now their stats are the same, but this is the down side Teixera, who historically is a 2nd half player. While this is the high side of Youk. I have no problems if they don't make the trade, but people out there saying they wouldn't make this deal based on how good either player is, is silly.

    Posted by matt July 19, 08 01:07 PM
  1. My thought,last year,was to try to get Teixera and move Youk to third,figuering Lowell gone.Sox signed Lowell to a multi year.At his age I thought go after Teixera,younger and good at first base.But the Sox made thier move,a good one,never the less as worthy as Lowell is,I feel Teixera would've been the better move.

    Posted by Jack July 22, 08 12:36 PM
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