Mark Buehrle to the Red Sox

There have been reports in Chicago papers that Mark Buehrle may be dealt to the Red Sox. As Lee Corso would say, "Not so fast my friend."

The Chicago papers would have you believe the trade would be something like Jon Lester for Mark Buehle. While it is true that Mark Buehrle is the type of player the Red Sox hope Jon Lester would develop into - why would the Red Sox give up years of the 23-year old Jon Lester for just 3 months of the 28-year old Buehrle?

As Tony Massarotti points out - the Red Sox hold most of the cards in this negotiation. The Red Sox hold a number of chips besides Lester such as Kason Gabbard who will be showcased this week as he takes over Curt Schilling's spot in the rotation or Devern Hansack who has a 3.19 ERA and 71 strikeouts in 73 innings from 12 AAA starts this season. Hansack is 29-years old and needs a chance to show he can play at the MLB level.

Also don't forget reliever Craig Hansen who was highly touted coming out of college but hasn't been stellar for the Red Sox. Maybe he would benefit from a change of scenery?

The Red Sox want to get Buehrle not just because he could help the team down the stretch but also to keep him from other playoff-bound American League teams. He could be the biggest difference maker available at or before the trade deadline. I mean even Dontrelle Willis wouldn't have as much impact for an AL team as the already acclimated Buehrle.

The big problem with the White Sox is not pitching but offense. This year they just suck at the plate. Now I'm not saying that he'd be the answer to what ails the White Sox offense but I am saying that the White Sox should consider a swap for Willy Mo Pena who is still just 25-years old. The White Sox potentially could lose all of their starting outfielders to free-agency this winter. Getting a guy who has hit a HR every 18 at bats in his career and who could be plugged into any of the three outfield slots should be appealing to the White Sox.