In this Pirates rumors and news update, the Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly one of three teams vying for the services of Boston Red Sox ace Jon Lester with the July 31st non-waive trade deadline fast approaching.
According to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, previously-reported contenders such as the Milwaukee Brewers and Baltimore Orioles have fallen behind, leaving the Pirates to duke it out with just two other teams:
Sources: #STLCards, #Dodgers, #Pirates all in mix for #RedSox’s Lester.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 30, 2014
The 30-year-old lefty could prove to be a very expensive rental if the Pirates decide to deal for him. He is due $4.33 million for the rest of this season and has stated prior that returning to Boston is a possibility this winter. Also, the Pirates would likely have to send Boston a trade package headlined by a top prospect such as outfielder Josh Bell.
Such a move would run counter to the Pirates' usual cost-mindful philosophy. However, with a four-team brawl likely to be the norm at the top of the NL Central down the stretch run, landing Lester could be the first step in creating needed separation in the standings.
Numerous reports are also indicating that Lester has been scratched from his scheduled start tomorrow for the Red Sox, meaning that a potential deal could be close at hand. While the Dodgers might be listed as the favorite by several analysts, don't be surprised if Lester ends up in the land of the Jolly Roger by the deadline.
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