Even though the Sox have a lot more to deal with first before moving on to trade John Lackey, it hasn't stopped the rumors. I think we can all agree Lackey CAN'T come back next year. So, with that in mind, what can be done?
We know now that there is 0 chance that he will just be sent with Epstein, but there are rumors the Cubs could trade a bad contract for Lackey. That means either Zambrano, who would seem like a terrible idea with the clubhouse already having problem, or Alfonso Soriano. Even if Zambrano is a terrible idea, I'd probably do it. I wouldn't be happy, but I'd do it. Soriano on the other hand I would be more then happy to take. Sure, he strikes out a ton, but he did have 26 HRs and 88 RBIs, and could add some power to the end of the lineup. He's not good, but we are talking about Lackey, so it's addition by subtraction.
Other guys mentioned are Vernon Wells, Chone Figgins, and Alex Rios. Wells is interesting, because Lackey had a lot of success with the Angels. Wells is coming off a terrible year in which he hit .218 with 25 HRs and 66 RBI, but I'm not sold that he is completely washed up. Put him at Fenway and I wouldn't be surprised to see him bounce back a bit. Remember he is only a year removed from hitting .273 with 31 HRs and 88 RBIs. Of all the trades I would like that one the best.
Figgins is the fucking worst. He is getting older (33), batted .188 last year and only had 11 SBs. It's addition by subtraction, but I hate this guy. Plus, Chone... really?
The last one is Rios. He has basically been a disappointment his whole career, but was decent just a year ago. I would do the deal, but I think there is 0 chance the White Sox would do it. They have a ton of pitching, and the last thing they need is Lackey, because that park is like a HR derby every game.
