A reported trade between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Boston Red Sox is nearing completion, according to various sources. In what would be one of the biggest blockbusters of the last decade, L.A. would receive first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, right-handed pitcher Josh Beckett, outfielder Carl Crawford and utility man Nick Punto in exchange for James Loney and other players to be determined.
With the two clubs working on a 48-hour deadline to get the trade completed, the Dodgers and Red Sox have begun pulling the players involved in the deal from Friday's lineups. Here is the latest from Boston:
Punto and Gonzalez were both summoned into clubhouse from dugout
— Alex Speier (@alexspeier) August 24, 2012
Loney has also been scratched from the Dodgers' lineup.
The addition of the four players would be huge for Los Angeles. Gonzalez presents a much better option than Loney at first base. Beckett could rejuvenate his career in a much more pitcher-friendly Dodger Stadium. Carl Crawford has serious elbow issues and is owed a ton of money for the next few seasons, although he could be a valuable asset if/when he becomes healthy. Punto will be a great infield option off the bench.
For more news on the Dodgers-Red Sox trade negotiations, head over to True Blue LA.