- The Story: The Cleveland Indians have traded Cliff Lee to the Phillies. The Monkey Says: My first reaction was that this is bad for the Angels as they were more likely to acquire Lee than Halladay, but since the Phillies were Halladay’s top suitor, it might force the Jays to take a lesser price now especially since the Phils didn’t give up Happ or Drabek for Lee which sets the market price for an ace at a lower level than what Toronto is asking.
- The Story: Mike Scioscia dismisses the idea of removing Ervin Santana or Joe Saunders from the rotation. The Monkey Says: The Angels don’t really have any other choice seeing how the still haven’t even settled on a fifth starter (more on that later).
- The Story: Erick Aybar is close to untouchable in trade talks. The Monkey Says: The Angels are probably getting snowed a bit by Aybar’s recent surge, but as I said yesterday, out of all their middle young infielders, he seems like the surest thing the Angels have right now.
- The Story: Mike DiGiovanna of the LA Times does not think the Angels will pursue lesser starters if they miss out on Halladay and Lee. The Monkey Says: Not sure I totally agree with that decision, but at least DiGiovanna seems to believe the Halos are feverishly looking for relief help as well.
- The Story: Robb Quinlan is making the most of his recent playing time. The Monkey Says: PUFF PIECE ALERT! They are right though, Q is sporting a 1.000+ OPS in July (although it is only in 20 ABs).
- The Story: Sean O’Sullivan pitched a no-hitter for Triple-A Salt Laker on Tuesday night. The Monkey Says: Promote that man now! Or trade him for while his stock is sky high!