As the trade deadline approaches, one of the things writers, bloggers and broadcasters do is try and connect the dots between rumors, what teams want and what teams appear to be willing to trade off.
Early Saturday, the San Jose Mercury-News printed a report that suggested that San Francisco Giants general manager would be willing to acquire rental players this season, something he's been against in the past, probably because he isn't willing to move some of his young talent (whether that's in the minors or majors).
The Giants "have to be more open-minded because of the situation we're in," Sabean said. That situation, has become dire without catcher Buster Posey. The Giants rank 27th in the league in runs, 25th in batting average, 25th in on-base percentage and 25th in slugging percentage. They have maybe one player in their everyday lineup -- Pablo Sandoval -- that teams would want in theirs.
Connect the dots and realize that the Mets have several pieces that are destined to be moved by July 31, they are currently in San Francisco -- and Carlos Beltran is one of those "rental" players whom the Giants could seek to infuse some offense into their lineup.
Prior to the game Friday night, National baseball writer for the San Francisco Chronicle John Shea spoke with Beltran, whom (notably) Giants coach Bruce Bochy also named to the NL All-Star team.
"I have made it clear to the organization that the only way I'd accept a deal is if it's to a team that's contending," the Mets' outfielder said. "Right now, we don't know what the interest of the Giants is."
Shea said on his twitter that Beltran "hinted" that he'd waive his no-trade clause to go to the Giants. But, as Matt Cerrone of Metsblog.com wonders, how good is Shea at reading body language? And even more importantly, New York is playing competitive baseball right now, and its right fielder has been a key member.
Regardless, Beltran's availability will probably be looked into by the Giants within the next several weeks. ESPN's Buster Olney said that in order for Beltran to be traded, "Mets would probably have to eat $5-$7 million -- and take Grade B-/C+ prospect."
Is it worth it? Time will tell.