The Ubaldo Jimenez sweepstakes have been difficult to figure out from the beginning. Jimenez is an incredibly talented pitcher signed to an incredibly team-friendly contract. So when word first got out that the Rockies were willing to make him available, there was some feeling that they were just doing so as a trial balloon to figure out how highly he's valued around the league, and that they weren't serious about moving him unless they were absolutely blown away.
MLB Trade Rumors: Ubaldo Jiménez Deal Remains A Possibility
But then Jon Morosi checked in with this:
The chances of Colorado ace Ubaldo Jimenez being dealt are now “around 50/50,” according to one major league source close to the talks.
And Joel Sherman added:
Feeling from execs is #Rockies want to find trade for Jimenez #Yankees, #Redsox #Reds calling. Surprise is #Bluejays kicked tires
It’s not much, but it’s something, given that until now the belief has been that Jimenez would stay put. Word is that the Rockies are still shooting for the moon, but if they’re actively seeking out a deal, their demands could lower in the coming days, suddenly making a Jimenez trade a more appealing possibility for a contender.
Jimenez is signed through 2012 with 2013 and 2014 options, the second of which Jimenez may void if he’s traded. After a rough start to the season, Jimenez has been strong through his last dozen starts, and he’s probably the best pitcher on the market, in terms of both ability and results. This is our best bet for a true trade deadline blockbuster.
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