Aki trade in works?

Posted Nov 3, 2009 by Tribune Sports

Updated Nov 3, 2009 at 04:31 PM

It sounds like there will be some news from the Rays tonight, and it may involve second baseman Akinori Iwamura.

The Rays aren’t saying anything, but their most pressing concern is a $4.85 million option on Iwamura’s contract. They must decide by the day after the World Series whether to pick up the option or pay a $550,000 buyout and let Iwamura become a free agent, so it makes sense that something could be coming down tonight.

There’s been speculation for the weeks that the Rays, wanting to get something for the productive former Japan all-star, will pick up the option for the purpose of trading him. The Cubs and Dodgers were considered the two most likely suitors, but speculation and rumors today have involved the Pirates and Twins.

Iwamura has hit .281 with a .354 on-base percentage and 104 RBIs in his three seasons with the Rays - playing third base in 2007 and second base the last two years. His 2009 season was abbreviated by a knee injury that cost him more than three months, but Iwamura managed to hit .290 with a .355 on-base percentage in 69 games.

Although “Aki” has said he would consider a pay cut to remain in Tampa Bay, it’s believed the Rays are leaning toward 2009 all-star Ben Zobrist or minor leaguer Sean Rodriguez at second for 2010. Rodriguez was obtained from the Angels in the Scott Kazmir trade.