WHO INTERESTED THE SKINNY
Todd Helton
Rockies Red Sox? Far from a done deal
Jan 29 - Todd Helton still could end up in Boston, but trade talks have hit another snag, the Rocky Mountain News reports. The Rockies remain firm in their demand that one of the elite prospects in the Red Sox system be included if a deal is made.
Helton, who's indicated he would approve a trade to Boston, will make $16.6 million this season and has $91.1 million guaranteed over the next five years. The sides have a general understanding on the Rockies picking up $40 million of what remains of the contract, but there have been problems finalizing the details and agreeing which players Colorado will receive.
Boston has offered right-handed pitcher Julian Tavarez, who is guaranteed $3.1 million in 2007, and third baseman Mike Lowell, who is guaranteed $9 million.
In addition, the Rockies gave the Red Sox a list that includes five prime prospects -- center fielder Jacob Ellsbury, and right-handed pitchers Daniel Bard, Manny Delcarmen, Craig Hansen and Clay Buchholz -- and said one would have to be in the deal. They would consider substituting Jon Lester, who underwent chemotherapy for a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma last year, pending medical approval. But Boston GM Theo Epstein has refused to expand his offer past Lowell and Tavarez.