Bradford: Braves "Not In On" Josh Beckett

It's been confirmed by multiple outlets that the Red Sox were gauging trade interest in Josh Beckett over the weekend, but now it's come out that the Atlanta Braves are not going to be a destination for him, should he be moved. According to Rob Bradford of WEEI, the Braves are not able to financially handle Beckett's deal, even with an assist from the Red Sox.

It turns out that, even if Josh Beckett would be likely to waive his 10-and-5 rights in order to move to Atlanta, the Braves aren't that interested. Instead, they asked the Red Sox about the availability of one of Boston's other long-term starters, Jon Lester, who the Red Sox let know wasn't going to be dealt.

It's unclear what kind of package the Braves would have offered, and it's easy to think that Boston should sell off Lester while he isn't pitching well. But, given his struggles have been mechanical and not due to a decrease in stuff or velocity, it's easy to believe they can get Lester back to where he needs to be, leading the rotation -- hence Atlanta's interest.