Jay Payton DFA by Red Sox

Payton has been designated for assignment by Boston. My take on this.

1. Payton was not happy with being a bench guy and going into a free agent year he needed the AB's

2. A number of clubs out there need an outfielded and Payton can play all three outfield positions. Houston really needs an outfielder and a deal for Adam Dunn as been rumored. The Dodgers really need help with JD Drew possibly out for the season. I'm sure Theo Epstein has shopped Payton and DFAing Payton may be just the last step in a trade process (DFAing him shows teams that Payton is for sure being traded and it starts a 10-day clock).

3. By DFAing him - Theo may get additional suitors. You wouldn't expect the world for Payton but teams will pay above market value if the alternative is a king's ransom for an Adam Dunn, Matt Lawton or Preston Wilson.

4. Even if the Sox end up giving Payton his outright release - most of his salary will still be paid for by the Padres per the Dave Roberts deal.