2011 MLB Trade Rumors: Rockies Expected to Deal Huston Street, Ian Stewart

Troy Renck of the Denver Post told his Twitter followers that he expects the Rockies to trade infielder Ian Stewart and closer Huston Street.   Street has been tied to the Orioles, Blue Jays, Marlins, Red Sox, Reds and Mets this offseason, while the Cubs have shown interest in Stewart.

Many rumors have swirled around Street since the Rockies made it known that their closer would be available this winter.  While he may not have the numbers of some of the free agent market’s top closers, Street is more affordable.

Street is set to make $7.5 million next season, and his contract includes a $9 million mutual option for 2013 with a $500,000 buyout.  For this reason Street appeals to smaller market clubs that aren’t willing to hand out long-term, expensive deals to relievers.

The Rockies would be willing to move Street because they feel they have a capable reliever ready to take over the closer’s role in Rafael Betancourt.

Stewart is an intriguing player because of the flashes he’s shown in the past and his current age, 26.  Some team may be willing to take a flier on the third baseman for these reasons.

Stewart was awful over his 48 games with the Rockies in 2011 (.464 OPS), but does have a career OPS of .751 and hit 25 home runs in 2009.

The Rockies can afford to look to deal Stewart because they have several prospective third basemen waiting in the wings.  Nolan Arenado is the most highly-touted of the bunch, while Colorado’s other options include Jordan Pacheco, Chris Nelson and Brandon Wood.

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