December 11, 2008 The Red Sox and Diamondbacks have been discussing a deal of Julio Lugo for Josh Byrnes, according to ESPN.
Our View:Byrnes would provide favorable depth as Boston's fourth outfielder and Julio Lugo would be the top candidate to replace Orlando Hudson at second base in Arizona.
December 9, 2008 Red Sox GM Theo Epstein said shortstop Julio Lugo's strained left quad had improved to the point where he would have been able to play in the World Series, according to the Boston Herald. If he isn’t dealt, manager Terry Francona indicated he hasn’t figured out how he will utilize Lugo and Jed Lowrie next season.
Our View:Lugo is expected to begin play in the Dominican League next week. His return to action would benefit the Sox’ ability to trade him. He hit .268 in 82 games last season.
November 27, 2008 Julio Lugo may not be traded to the Tigers after all, according to the Boston Herald. He was originally thought to be heading to Detroit in exchange for either Dontrelle Willis or Nate Robertson, but the deal has stalled and is unlikely to happen at best.
Our View:Lugo didn't have any fantasy value in 2008 as he only batted .268 with one home run and 22 RBI. He also only had 12 steals in 16 attempts, so his contribution to fantasy owners' running game was negligible as well.
November 16, 2008 The Boston Globe reports that the Tigers are thinking about a deal that would send Dontrelle Willis or Nate Robertson to Boston for Julio Lugo, but salary issues must be resolved first.
Our View:All three players are coming off of poor 2008 seasons, and the Tigers have a need at shortstop after letting Edgar Renteria walk.
October 5, 2008 According to the Boston Globe, the Red Sox will try to move Julio Lugo this off-season.
Our View:This is not surprising considering the emergence of Jed Lowrie. The Red Sox would probably have to pick up some salary to move the high-priced shortstop, but there will probably be several teams interested.
