MVN: Most Valuable Network

In what has become a regular occurrence, Baltimore Orioles' 2B Brian Roberts is on the trading block once again.

Rumors have suggested that both Chicago teams are in the mix, but a report suggested that the White Sox and Orioles are discussing a trade.  White Sox P Gavin Floyd would go east to Baltimore in the deal.

Roberts has been a consistent performer over the past few years, In 2008, he hit .295 with 9 HR, 57 RBI and 40 SB.  He also had 51 doubles last season, which was good for second in the American League in that category.  Since 2005, he has hit at least .286, had at least a .410 slugging percentage and stolen at least 27 bases every season.  Roberts has also been durable, playing in 159, 143, 138, 156 and 155 games since 2004.  However, the White Sox lineup does face some uncertainty with the exits of OF/1B Nick Swisher, 3B Joe Crede, IF Juan Uribe and OF Ken Griffey, Jr.  1B/DH Paul Konerko also struggled in first half of 2008, and his age could be showing.  But no matter where he plays in 2009, the 31-year old Roberts is a top-five fantasy option at 2B on draft day.

On the other side, Gavin Floyd had a breakthrough 2008 season, going 17-8 with a 3.84 ERA and 1.26 WHIP in 206 innings pitched.  All the above numbers were career highs for the young pitcher, who will turn 26 in late January.  A potential move to Baltimore looks like a lateral move in terms of how hitter/pitcher friendly the stadium is, but his win total would likely come down some pitching for the Orioles.  Floyd could be good for double digit wins no matter where he pitches, with an ERA around 4.00.  To expect anything better would be expecting too much, though youth (and thus potential upside) is on Floyd's side. 

Reports have also suggested that the Orioles want another player along with Floyd in exchange for Roberts.  The White Sox have also already traded SP Javier Vazquez this offseason, so they may not be willing to trade another starting pitcher.  But they do have a void at 2B, and GM Ken Williams may be willing to part with another pitcher to add a veteran to a lineup that looks to be very young for the coming season.