Here are the rumors for Tuesday:
–Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports repeats a rumor that we heard yesterday: the Pirates are one of five teams looking at B.J. Upton. He mentions that the level of interest by the Pirates and Reds is unclear. Upton would be a great addition defensively, although his bat has struggled throughout his career. I posted a blind comparison yesterday of his offensive stats compared to Josh Willingham, and Willingham’s numbers were the clear favorite. That said, the difference in defense definitely tips the scales, as does Upton’s speed, and the difference in age would have me taking Upton over Willingham any day. I’m just not sure I’d give up a ton to get Upton, who has underachieved throughout his career. Alex Presley and Jose Tabata might be out, but they’re not out for the season.
–Troy Renck of The Denver Post reports that the Pirates’ interest has cooled on catcher Chris Iannetta. That’s good news, in my opinion. With Ryan Doumit set to return in early August, and Michael McKenry and Eric Fryer looking like a good replacement duo in the mean time, there really wasn’t much sense in going after a guy who is struggling at the plate, and who has historically struggled throwing out base runners.
-On a related Rockies note, Jason Giambi injured his left quad last night, which could prevent a July trade. Quad injury? Sounds like he’s a Pirates’ hitter already.
