If Francona is truly the genius I think he is, then it is time to shake up the rotation a bit.

He did well placing J.D. Drew atop the order. What arm options are available?

Rumor has it that Mark Buehrle may be available. I'm all for it, but before we even begin to entertain that idea, perhaps we should take a look at our current club.

Tim Wakefield, forgive me, just isn't getting it done and hasn't for a month. His ERA has jumped from 2.41 to 4.52. Not good enough on this staff.

I love Wake, but it may be time to put him in the 'pen; making room for either Lester, Gabbard or a Buehrle.

Would Wakefield be willing? He bleeds for his team, he is a realist and will undoubtedly do what the team feels is needed. He could be effective in that role.

Now on to the rumors. Surely, some shuffling has to happen should a deal get done for no-hit wonder Buerhle.

What would you give up? Would Chigago be interested in Gabbard and a Moss or Murphy? Would you do it? How about a Buchholz or Ellsbury?

Chicago likes the Buchholz or Ellsbury idea. And why not? The two are sure-fire prospects who could have an immediate impact.

But I can't see the Sox parting with either of these two, especially if there is no certainty that Buehrle will sign. To me, Ellsbury, Lester and Buchholz are untouchable.

I wouldn't part with the others either if Buehrle weren't going to stay beyond '07.

Why mortgage the future for a pitcher?

The same goes for any "available" free agent player whether it be Andruw Jones, Ichiro, whoever.

The Sox could win it with the team they have.

It may not even matter, the Mets may outbid Boston anyway.

Chicago Sun-Times' Jay Mariotti thinks the White Sox should stop the trade talk and sign Buehrle.

We'll see how this all will shake out.

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