DENVER -- The Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates have
been discussing a trade that would send left-hander Denny Neagle to
the Pirates in exchange for catcher Jason Kendall.
The Rockies, 42-46 at the All-Star break, also have been
shopping their other high-profile pitcher, Mike Hampton.
Because his production hasn't matched his contract, Neagle has
been the subject of numerous trade possibilities.
Neagle, who has a no-trade clause in his contract, wants to stay
in the National League, preferably with a contender.
Neagle already has vetoed two trades to Detroit, the latest
involving outfielder Bobby Higginson.
''It has to be a place that is desirable to me and my family,''
Neagle told The Denver Post last week in explaining why he
exercised his veto.
The 33-year-old Neagle, demoted to the bullpen last week, is 4-6
with a 6.06 ERA. He is in the second year of a five-year, $51
million deal that guarantees him $37 million over its final three
years.
Kendall also has a no-trade clause but is considered more likely
to waive his, given his success at Coors Field and the presence of
his father, Fred, on the Rockies' coaching staff.
The Pirates are believed interested in moving Kendall's
contract. Kendall, 28, is in the first year of a six-year, $56
million deal that guarantees him $50 million over the final five
years.
The Pirates view Neagle as a candidate to provide leadership for
their young pitching staff and are concerned about Kendall's lack
of run production this season.
Kendall, a career .302 hitter, has a .287 average this season
with two homers and 26 RBI.
By trading Neagle and acquiring Kendall, the Rockies would save
$2 million during the next two seasons, and it also would cost them
less in deferred money.
Meanwhile, the Rockies were discussing a trade with the Texas
Rangers involving Hampton, the Rocky Mountain News reported
Tuesday.
Like Neagle, Hampton's hefty contract limits his desirability.
Hampton, 5-9 with a 6.73 ERA, is in the second year of an
eight-year, $121 million deal that guarantees him $88 million over
its final six years.
The St. Louis Cardinals also are believed interested in Hampton.
The News, citing sources close to the teams, also said the Los
Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks have approached the
Rockies about the availability of reliever Todd Jones.