Rumblings: Jacksonville, Nottinghamshire, Boston

It's the last chance to pick up a player for the stretch run and the playoffs! While some of the names being floated around are no surprise—veterans in contract years—there are some interesting possibilities involving younger talent. What am I talking about? Well, just read for yourself.

Joe McKnight

As previously reported, Jacksonville is looking to trade starter Jim Thompson, but he might not be the only Jack who gets moved. Joe MacKnight hasn't been shy with his anger at the team's poor performance: the veteran second baseman may get his way and be traded to a contender. The most interesting rumor, however, concerns Dennis Woods. An anonymous source with the club tells us that management is so disappointed with the young center-fielder's poor performance that they are listening to trade offers for him. Woods is batting only .205—a far cry from the performance level expected of a fourth round draft selection. At only 25 years old, he certainly has time to turn things around, but it sounds as if he may not get that chance with Jacksonville.

Fred Jones

Nottinghamshire is actively shopping reliever Fred Jones. They are looking for a decent starting pitching prospect in return. With So Cal and Nottinghamshire this season, Jones has pitched a combined 49 2/3 innings and has a 1.45 ERA. He comes cheap as he's drawing the league's minimum salary this season.

Matt Sanford

Boston has the best record in the Munson League but could be open to the right trade. According to a source in the front office, they could use a number three starter (or better) and an upgrade at catcher and second base. The Cardinals have talent at these positions, but it's young talent. Dave Lane is only 24 and has a lot of power for a second baseman: he is batting .234 but has hit 16 home runs. Matt Sanford, 25, is a superb defensive backstop who has struggled with the bat, hitting .186 so far. George White, 25, also plays catcher and has a .706 OPS thus far. Any of these three could be moved, as well as any players in the Cardinals' minor league system.