George King of the New York Post is reporting that the Toronto Blue Jays have asked for Joba Chamberlain in return for left-handed reliever Scott Downs. The Yankees have said no.
If the price on Downs falls, the Yankees may meet it because, with Damaso Marte on the disabled list with shoulder woes, Boone Logan is Joe Girardi’s lone lefty in the pen. And while Logan’s control has been better lately, it’s been an issue throughout his career.
Downs, who has roughly $1.33 million remaining on this year’s deal, has limited left-handed hitters to a .185 average (10-for-54). However, he has been more than a lefty specialist; overall hitters are batting .240 (23-for-96).
“He is the best out there and the Yankees need help in the pen,” an executive said. “They would be helping themselves.”
I have said before that I would love to see the Yankees acquire Downs. He would upgrade their bullpen immensely. Trading Joba for him would be just plain silly, though.