If Hunter Leaves, Bay May Come

Let’s face it, Jason Bay had a horrible year. After hitting 35 home-runs and driving in 109, Jason only put up a .247 21HR 84RBI line this year. Pretty bad timing as the Pirates named a new general manager duo of Neil Huntington and Bill Smith, almost guaranteeing that Bay will be dealt this offseason in order to replenish Pittsburgh’s minor-league system.

“The Bucco Blog” over at MLBlogs.com reports that the Twins might have quite a bit of interest in a Matt Garza for Jason Bay deal. Makes a lot of sense for the Twins, as Bay could be pretty adequate in center-field and is signed for a mere $5.75M next year.

Garza is only 24 years old and has already had a 5-7 season, compiling a 3.69 ERA in the process. He could fit in quite well with a rotation including Ian Snell, Zach Duke, Tom Gorzelanny, & Matt Morris.

Pirates Might Look To Move Bay

Rob Biertempfel of the Tribune-Review believes that "Over the new couple of weeks, the Pirates will hire a new manager, scouting director, director of player development and assistant general manager. The turnover could extend to coaches and scouts throughout the system.

New facilities are rising in Bradenton, Fla., and the Dominican Republic. The club also plans to develop a leaner, more efficient data storage system.(Mlbtraderumors.com)" He also notes that since the Pirates won't be a World Series team anytime soon, they might shop ex-Met Jason Bay. Bay's signed to a very good deal at $4.5M for the next 2 seasons, so there would be quite a bit of interest if he were to hit the trade block.
I could definantly see a Brandon Webb, Juan Rivera, Ervin Santana swap from the Angels, but they will need to open up LF by either moving Garret Anderson or Reggie Willits.