2011 MLB Trade Rumors: Six Teams Interested in Huston Street

We learned last week that a trade market for Colorado Rockies closer Huston Street was developing.  Yesterday, Jon Heyman of SI.com reported that the Blue Jays, Orioles, Marlins, Red Sox, Reds and Mets have all shown interest in the right-hander.

Though the market is full of closer options, Street interests teams because of the limited years and salary he is owed.  Set to make $7.5 million in 2012, Street also has a $9 million club option for 2013 that includes a $500,000 buyout.  In essence, a team can look to deal for Street and be on the hook for $8 million and one season.  This, of course, isn’t including any money the Rockies would chip in to sweeten the deal.

Colorado is willing to trade Street because they are confident that veteran reliever Rafael Betancourt can make a smooth transition into the role of full-time closer.  Following Street’s season-ending injury, Betancourt came on to convert eight of his nine save opportunities.

Ken Rosenthol reported that the Mets were discussing trading right-hander Mike Pelfrey for Street and that the Blue Jays have interest in making deal because of the high price tag free agent closers carry.  The Orioles are looking to move late-inning reliever Jim Johnson to their rotation and may want another option at closer other than the shaky Kevin Gregg.

The Reds look like they will lose Francisco Cordero to free agency and have checked in on available closers such as Andrew Bailey and Street.  With the uncertainty surrounding Juan Carlos Oviedo, the Marlins are in the market for a finisher and the Red Sox recently watched long-time closer Jonathan Papelbon flee for Philadelphia.

For more on the Rockies, be sure to check out Rox Pile.