Carlos Lee Nixes Trade to Dodgers

Carlos Lee‘s limited no-trade clause came in handy for him.  One of the team in which he could veto a trade

to came calling, and Lee said no.  At least for now.  According to numerous sources including ESPN’s Buster Olney and Zachary Levine of the Houston Chronicle, Lee intends to make an official decision by Sunday, but he has told the Astros he does not want to waive his no-trade clause in order to go to the Dodgers.

The Dodgers, who started the season red-hot, have fallen off quite a bit and now find themselves trailing the Giants in the National League West.  They are lacking offense and Lee would have been a big help.  They’ve also been linked to Carlos Quentin and Chase Headley of the Padres.

Lee has played for the Astros for the last six years.  He’s hit .287/.339/.480 in his time with Houston, but he’s shown power everywhere he has been.  Lee has had twelve seasons of 20 home runs or more.

The Astros are looking to get something in return for Lee before he hits free agency.  It’s unlikely they will make a qualifying offer to Lee in free agency meaning under the terms of the new CBA they wouldn’t get anything in return for the loss of El Caballo.  The Dodgers had shown the most interest and are ready to deal, but it doesn’t look like the move will happen.  If it does, it means Lee had a change of heart from Saturday to Sunday.

For more on the Astros, be sure to check out Climbing Tal’s Hill. 

For more on the Dodgers, be sure to check out Lasorda’s Lair.