Jon Lester trade rumors: Milwaukee Brewers have shown interest
By Dan Zinski
The Milwaukee Brewers have done it before, making a splashy stretch-run trade for a big-time left handed starter they knew they probably weren’t going to be able to re-sign after the season.
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That time it was CC Sabathia, and the big lefty indeed helped the Brewers get into the 2008 postseason. Milwaukee may be ready to make another such future-is-now trade in 2014, and the target is the Red Sox’ Jon Lester.
Jon Heyman reports that Milwaukee has contacted the Red Sox about Lester, who will be a free agent after the season and may wish to turn around and re-sign with Boston. The Red Sox are believed to be interested in top Brewers prospect Jimmy Nelson.
The Dodgers, Mariners and Pirates have also been linked to Lester in recent days. With David Price likely off the market, Lester is the most coveted of all the starting pitchers believed to be available via trade.
The Brewers’ history of pulling the trigger on big trades has to make them legit contenders for Lester. It seems they can land Lester if they’re willing to part with Jimmy Nelson.
Milwaukee is currently only 1 1/2 games up on the Cardinals in the NL Central, with the Pirates and Reds lurking just behind. The Brewers might need Lester if they want to fend off those other teams and make another postseason run as in 2008.
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