Mike Lowell was the subject of numerous trade rumors, both this offseason and leading up to the July 31 trade deadline. The Red Sox weren't able to pull a trigger on a deal, although they seemed to have something in line with the Rangers at two different points.


Looking back at the value that Lowell could have brought to the Sox, we see three different scenarios:

Pre-season/Spring Training

Lowell was almost traded to the Rangers during the GM meetings last December. The Red Sox and Rangers had a deal in place that would have the BoSox sending Lowell and $9 million to the Rangers for catcher Max Ramirez.

It was later revealed that Lowell had a torn ligament in his right thumb, requiring surgery. The Rangers backed off the deal, but mentioned they'd be interested after seeing Lowell recover.

Outlook: The Red Sox would have acquired the backup catcher (and heir apparent to the Varitek Throne) they've desperately needed and been searching for over the last few seasons. The Rangers would have acquired a right handed power bat they (thought) they desperately needed. In reality, the Rangers haven't missed Lowell's bat, but their merry-go-round at first has caused a little instability in the lineup.

Pre-Trade Deadline

In the weeks leading up to the trade deadline, Theo's front office seemed to have gotten some nibbles on Lowell. The Twins and the Rangers reportedly contacted the Red Sox about Lowell, but nothing ever came of the talks. Theo may have tried to start a bidding war with the Twins and Rangers, but it's tough to sell damaged goods in this economy. The Tigers, according to Danny Knobler of CBS Sports, called about Lowell around the 23rd, but the market never picked up.

Outlook: The Red Sox were probably smart not to get rid of Lowell at this point. His value was at its lowest, and they weren't going to get anyone of worth unless they ate the remainder of his salary. The Rangers showed the most interest, but with the problems surrounding ownership and the ability to add payroll, the front office became handcuffed when trying to add more players via trade (see Lee, Guzman trades).

Current Day Value

Lowell was inserted into the lineup when everyone else on the Red Sox figured out how to add their names to the disabled list. With Kevin Youkilis out for the season, the Sox planted Lowell at first. After signing Carlos Delgado to a minor league contract and adding Jarrod Saltalamacchia via trade, Lowell has done nothing but perform. His homer against the Blue Jays gave the Red Sox a much needed win, but Lowell continues to be bothered by the idea of sharing his newly acquire playing time.


Outlook: This is probably the last shot at the Red Sox getting any value out of Lowell, and who knew it would come by inserting him into their own lineup. Despite a August 4th report that Lowell was placed on (and cleared) waivers, he'll continue to play first for the BoSox as long as Victor Martinez doesn't need a day off from being behind the plate.