Looking forward: the Trade Deadline

With the trading deadline approaching (Sunday, June 19!), several interesting names have been hinted around the rumor mill. Let's take a look at some of the teams that might make some moves before the clock strikes Sunday.

Arkansas Golden Falcons - seller
The Falcons are only 3 games under .500, but are stuck in 6th place and have a ways to go to make the playoffs. One of the more interesting names floating out of Little Rock is closer Brad Lidge, who is a likely candidate to get shipped out. Infielders Cristian Guzman and Ray Durham have also been offered up as well as veterans Tim Wakefield and Kerry Wood.

Hillsborough Hired Hitmen - seller/buyer
Although the Hitmen hold a comfy 4-game lead in the Morris Division, the Courier News has reported that Mitchell Award frontrunner Aubrey Huff and lefty starter C.C. Sabathia are both available for the right price. Anxious fans, afraid that the rumors may signify that the Hitmen are throwing in the towel, were soothed when GM/Owner Brent Campbell announced that the club is not giving up on this season. "We are in talks to acquire some key parts to the championship puzzle" said Campbell, "but we are not afraid to shake up the team if we have to."

Philadelphia Endzone Animals - seller
One of the most active teams on the trade market this year, it's no surprise to hear the Animals in the thick of almost every trade rumor. The Animals are surely looking toward next year, despite a respectable 59-57 record. Ace pitchers Brandon Webb and Scott Kazmir are two of the bigger names that could be dealt before Sunday, but other, smaller cogs like Chris Young, Michael Cuddyer, and Justin Masterson could be gone as well.

Vancouver Iron Fist - seller/buyer
The defending champions are currently tied for the 5th spot overall, but could move some of their players as well. The Fist has a surplus of pitching and may move Hiroki Kuroda or Paul Maholm, and even longtime Fist Ben Sheets has been whispered about. Another interesting development has some teams asking about DH David Ortiz, the defending Kevin Mitchell Award winner. "These are players we can afford to lose if we can shore up some of our weaker areas" said GM/Owner Yaro Zajac. "We're not bowing out of this race by any stretch."

Other teams to look out for: Las Vegas and D.C. are always busy when it comes to the trade deadline and there's a good chance that Carolina and Amityville will be involved in at least one deal. Newark usually has at least one trade up their sleeve, so look for the Sugar Bears to plug some minor holes.