at least according to the article, the Astros won’t be able to offer enough to get Baker. I don’t mind Baker, but not at any great expense.

The targeted player from the Philies is Kendrick. Who would the Astros equivalent of that be?

Rosenthal even says it in his article: “The Rockies often are criticized by rival executives for asking too much for their players in trades,”

They can target Kendrick, but that doesn’t mean they will get him. I don’t think the Astros have a real equivalent to Kendrick. Backe might be the closest. But he is older and had a bad year.

I still think it is possible that the Rockies will still have to trade Baker more cheaply. Just as long as Wade doesn’t pull a Pupura and give the Rockies everything they want, I think this option is still worth looking at.

I also have become fascinated by the idea of trading for the Reds’ Keppinger and using him at 3d. Keppinger’s career OPS vs. lefties is over .900.