The 2011 MLB Trade deadline is just under a week away and the Colorado Rockies are expected to make a few moves. While they won't be making moves to cement any sort of position in the playoff race, they are likely to move pieces to contenders that need to fill holes.
ESPN's Buster Olney reports that two talent evaluators believe the Rockies will trade Rafael Betancourt this week. Betancourt has seen his light dim this season, his ERA increasing nearly a full point from last year (3.61 to 4.31) and his FIP is in the mid-3.00s rather than in the 2.00s he put up for the Rockies the last two seasons. His batting average on balls in play (BABIP) has also gone up to .321 from .303. Betancourt signed an extension with the Rockies that pays him $4 million in 2012 and $4.25 million in a 2013 mutual option.
Olney also has sources who believe that the Rockies will trade Jason Giambi and Ty Wigginton. Giambi could be a good pick up for an American League team looking for a designated hitter, as he has 10 home runs this season. The return might not be great on Giambi given his age and desire to stay in Colorado. Wigginton could be moved to a team who needs a player versatile enough to play the outfield, first base and third base. He has one year left on his contract as well as a 2013 option.
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