Ubaldo Jimenez Trade Rumors?

Ubaldo Jimenez trade rumors? Surely the Rockies wouldn't deal a guy that could possibly be their franchise player for the next several years? Jimenez has struggled this season in Colorado and perhaps that has opened the door at least for the latest trade rumors heading toward the Major League deadline.

What's the latest on the Jimenez trade rumors? Colorado clearly wants a ton for their starting pitcher and not many teams are willing to give up a bulk of their future for a guy who is just 6-10 this season with an ERA over 4.

It appears the strongest interest for Ubaldo is coming from the American League-where Jimenez is coveted by the Indians, Tigers and Yankees. The Tigers were hot and heavy in the Ubaldo Jimenez trade rumors--but it appears that they are now more likely to land Seattle right hander Doug Fister according to a CBS Sports report. The Yankees are always willing to throw out top talent at the trade deadline. According to the New York Post, the talks between the Yankees and Rockies over Jimenez have stalled. According to the Denver Post, the asking price for Jimenez remains extremely high. So unlike the Heath Bell situation in San Diego, a trade doesn't appear imminent.

What can Ubaldo Jimenez do for a club? It depends on which team he is traded to as to what his role will be. Can you imagine Jimenez as a #2 or #3 starter on a team with already solid pitching? Jimenez hasn't exacty been provided with tons of run support and a trade could thrust Jimenez into the heat of a playoff race-which could bring out his best.

Some are reporting that the Jimenez trade is a "50-50" bet right now. With the large asking price, it appears that getting a deal done in a short span of time could take some give and take. The big question is whether teams wanting a solid starting pitcher are willing to give that much.