Trade Winds Blow into Philly and Phoenix

The Philadelphia Phillies took a major step yesterday to help their chances in the NL East by acquiring Oakland A's right-hander Joe Blanton for 3 prospects. The trade occurred a little over a week after A's GM sent ace Rich Harden to the Chicago Cubs.

The Phillies get a 27-yr old pitcher who already has as many losses this season, 12, as his career worst. But he won 30 games the prior two seasons combined and threw 230 innings last season.

In return the A's get 2nd base prospect Adrian Cardenas, outfielder Matt Spencer, and pitcher Josh Outman.

The Arizona Diamondbacks hoped to boost their offense and their bench, by bring back switch-hitting 1st baseman Tony Clark. To acquire Clark from the San Diego, the Dbacks sent minor league pitcher Evan Scribner to the Padres.

The 36-yr old former Yankee, is hitting just .239-1-11 in 70 games.

There are many blogs out there, some good, some bad, some who just make shit up. We believe that's the case of one MLB rumor blog, who shall remain nameless, who claimed that the Yankees were close to bringing in Barry Bonds. The source was supposedly a clubhouse insider. Needless to say a Yankees official said yesterday that the Yankees had no intention of bringing in Bonds.

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Around the Horn - 7/11

The Diamondbacks are looking into the possibility of bringing back their former 1st baseman Tony Clark. The Arizona Republic reported that the Dbacks are one of several teams to have contacted the Padres about the 6'7" 1st baseman. We recommend they get a 3rd baseman too. Mark Reynold's lack of defense is killing them.

Dbacks GM Josh Byrnes and company have decided not to pursue Barry Bonds, and according to the East Valley Tribune, have denied having any interest in Milton Bradley, as had been reported on a radio broadcast.

According to the Dallas Morning News, Hank Blalock is set to start a rehab assignment and may soon finally return to the Rangers lineup.

Fausto Carmona threw a 50-pitch simulated game and, according to the Akron Beacon Journal, hopes to begin a rehab assignment soon.

Pitcher Josh Johnson made his return to the Florida Marlins after Tommy John surgery. He allowed 3 runs in 5 innings.

The Associated Press reported that the Mariners have acquired 1st baseman Craig Wilson from the Pirates for a player to be named.

Blue Jays outfielder Vernon Wells is out 4-6 weeks with a Grade 2 hamstring strain.

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