Sox "Desperate" to Rid Themselves of Lugo....No Kidding

There are "new" reports circling around the web that the Red Sox are"desperate" to trade Julio Lugo. Does this surprise anyone? Haven't all of us been desperate to get rid of the overpaid and irrationally confident shortstop pretty much since we got him?

Now, as the entire baseball market has the Sox over a barrel knowing that they need to move him, no one wants to touch him with a ten foot pole. And for good reason, the best production Boston has managed out of Lugo came in Spring Training this year when he hit close to .400.....I still can't believe many of us were foolish in harboring some optimism for him (myself included).

The Sox have Lowrie on the mend, Green as more than capable backup, and a 9.25 million dollar waste of space on their bench (not to mention he's taking up a valuable roster spot). In addition the Sox have made it their goal to build some young shortstops in their farm system in order to develop for the future. From signing an 18 year old Cuban defector, to forcing a single A pitcher into a shortstop role, to today's signing of a 16 year old Dominican who apparently is one of the best young talents on an island full of studs.

Make no mistake about it, the Sox are not happy with the revolving shortstop door, but between dumping Lugo for a bag of balls and prioritizing their scouting, I have confidence they'll get it done.

Report: Wilson Trade Not Likely

According to a recent article out of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazzate, the potential trade between the Red Sox and the Pirates for their gold-glove caliber short stop Jack Wilson appears all but dead. For the last few weeks Theo has been shopping around a similar strategy as he took in 2004 where he keyed in on the team's defensive liabilities.

Somehow, Jack Wilson is considered the Pirates prize possession and "franchise player". Apparently, that means they expect some of Boston's best young arms back in return....which I imagine Theo met with a "are you kidding?"....that's just not going to happen. Good for Theo for not making an irrational short term move.

After surprising us all on Saturday with a 4 for 5 day at the plate, Lugo reminded quickly reminded us why we hate him yesterday with another throwing error.....what seems like his 76th of the season at this point. Jed Lowrie is slated to take live batting practice in Lowell today in preparation for an upcoming rehab start this week.

We should consider any offensive output out of the short stop position a plus at this point. Clearly this lineup can hit, so hopefully Lowrie can focus on solidifying the defense up the middle of the field.