The Los Angeles Angels are unlikely to move shortstop Erick Aybar now that Alberto Callaspo has been traded, but second baseman Howie Kendrick is "still in play" as the deadline approaches, reports Alden Gonzalez of MLB.com.
Angels rumors: Erick Aybar trade unlikely, Howie Kendrick still in play
The Halos have already moved one infielder, but may still look to deal another for rotation help.
More Angels: Callaspo Traded Away
Both Aybar and Kendrick, who are signed to team-friendly contracts through the next few seasons, were rumored to be available Tuesday afternoon. The Angels were/are shopping their middle infielders for rotation help, and are reportedly seeking MLB-ready pitchers with several years of team control remaining.
Why do the Sox need Peavy?
Really. What's the deal?The situation changed slightly when the club sent their third baseman to the Oakland Athletics in the evening. If the Halos had acquired a young shortstop in exchange for Callaspo, than Aybar might still be on the block... but they didn't. GM Jerry Dipoto netted 25-year-old second baseman Grant Green from the A's, so it is Kendrick whose name is still swirling in trade rumors.
The Kansas City Royals and the Baltimore Orioles are the only teams remotely close to contention that have a need at second base, but neither has been tied to Kendrick as of yet. It's also been reported that the Royals are listed on Kendrick's limited no-trade clause, so the Angels may have trouble sending him to KC even if they do want him.
Kendrick, 30, is putting together arguably his best season at the plate this year, batting .301/.344/.446 with 11 home runs in 427 plate appearances. Howie isn’t the “future batting champion” that was promised when he first came up, but he’s still a quality second baseman. He is signed through the 2015 season for roughly $19 million.
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