Pierre trade on hold for now

[L0rdB23]

The Marlins apparently are awaiting Johnny Damon's signing before shopping Pierre. The White Sox have a better chance to get him than the Cubs because GM Jim Hendry is not going to part with the minor-leaguers Florida wants the most_Felix Pie, Matt Murton and Rich Hill. The Sox's challenge is to get the Marlins to do a deal built around one or two of their outfield prospects without insisting on Neal Cotts. ... Poor second halves is the reason Texas was willing to consider dealing Hank Blalock for Beckett. Having missed out on Beckett, the Rangers are hoping to land free-agent starters Matt Morris and Paul Byrd. ... The willingness to overpay for Howry and Eyre is why many observers believe the Cubs will wind up with Furcal. They will beat Atlanta's top offer to keep him.

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercuryn ... 262763.htm