Hi, I'm grover and I've visited before way back when.

I'd be shocked if the A's parted ways with Blanton, seeing as his stock is so low right now. I imagine that's part of the appeal for the Phillies, they know he can pitch better then he's shown and they're hoping they can get a bargain. A sound plan but it tends to run contrary to Beane's attempts to gouge his trade partners mercilessly.

What about 2 time All-Star Justin Duchscherer (or Duke as the lovable muppets at AN call him) as the final piece to Philly's rotation? Duke has the lowest SP ERA in all of baseball and his component numbers are nice to look at as well. Admittedly he probably pitched a little over his head in the 1st half but when you look at his career numbers you can see that he knows how to pitch.

He's arby eligible next season, so the Phils could control him for a season and a half if they chose to do so. I realize the Philly fans (and management for that matter) would prefer if Myers could come back and pitch like he has in the past but assuming he doesn't, would Duke be of interest?

If the readers of this site advocate a trade for Duke, perhaps you wouldn't mind sharing your ideas regarding adequate payment. I'm curious to know what the deal is with Jason Donald. Does he have the range for SS? 'Cause the A's needs someone who can replace Bobby Crosby and the sooner the better!

FYI, another guy I like is Dominic Brown.

Just so ya know.