Sources: Rockies, BoSox explore trade options

The Rockies have discussed a Garrett Atkins-for-Takashi Saito trade with the Red Sox, but both teams continue to explore other options, according to major-league sources.




While the Rockies are eager to dump Atkins, who is earning $7.05 million, they might want more of a return than Saito, who missed most of the second half of last season with a sprained elbow ligament.

Saito could end up earning approximately as much as Atkins this season; the performance and roster bonuses in his contract top out at $7.5 million if he spends 150 days on the active roster and appears in at least 70 games. He has been active all season and is on pace for 61 appearances.

The Rockies have drawn mild interest in Atkins from the Cardinals and Reds, one source says. The Red Sox are exploring trades for hitters as protection against further issues with third baseman Mike Lowell, who is on the disabled list with a strained right hip.