The Pittsburgh Pirates are looking at Alex Rios, according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. He also adds that “people familiar with Pittsburgh’s thinking suggest they wouldn’t be surprised if the Pirates expand the talks to include Sox shortstop Alexei Ramirez”. That’s similar to the trade idea Jim Bowden floated out there a week ago, although I don’t think the cost would be anything close to Gregory Polanco, Nick Kingham, and Jordy Mercer.
Heyman notes that Rios could draw interest from the Rangers, Yankees, and the Giants. He says Rios is the top all-around outfielder on the trade block, and Ramirez is the top shortstop. Ramirez is under control through the 2016 season, with about $32 M remaining on his contract if his 2016 option is picked up.
