August 15, 2008 Gerald Laird's sore back is feeling better, and he is in Friday's lineup, according to the Dallas Morning News. He didn't need a cortisone shot like he thought he might.
Our View:Laird has been scuffling of late, and the back likely has something to do with it.
July 31, 2008 The Rangers have received multiple offers for Gerald Laird, but none of them are strong enough to make a deal work, according to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick.
Our View:With Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Max Ramirez and Taylor Teagarden in the system, it would behoove the Rangers to deal Laird, who is eligible for salary arbitration.
July 29, 2008 The Marlins have been the most aggressive suitor for Gerald Laird, according to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal. The Yankees, Reds and Brewers are also interested.
Our View:Florida is also eying the Orioles' Ramon Hernandez, the Giants' Bengie Molina, and the Pirates' Ryan Doumit, though there's no indication that the latter two are even available.
July 28, 2008 The Reds sent a scout to watch Gerald Laird's final rehab start at Salt Lake City, as well as his first game back with the Rangers Sunday, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View:The Yankees are also interested in Laird, who is hitting .316 over 187 at-bats with Texas this season. Laird would provide strong depth to the Reds and would be an upgrade over starter David Ross, who is currently hitting .250.
July 24, 2008 The Yankees are said to be tracking Gerald Laird as they look to upgrade their catching unit, according to the Star-Ledger.
Our View:The Yankees have concerns that Jose Molina may not be able to hold up as the everyday catcher over the remainder of the season. Paul Lo Duca, Miguel Olivo, and Rod Barajas are said to be other options on the Yankees' radar as well. Laird is currently recovering from a hamstring injury, but would provide solid depth to the Yankees if healthy, as he holds a .306 average over 51 games.
