Braves getting more serious about trade talks

It was reported earlier last month that the Brewers had interest in Javier Vasquez.

After those initial discussions, trade talks revolving the Braves has diminished, until now.

Dave O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution has reported that Vasquez and shortstop Yunel Escobar are possibly two players the Braves could part ways with by the July 31 deadline. They said they don't really want to get rid of Vasquez, but would consider it if it meant bringing in an "impact" player, presumably a bat. Escobar's contract is affordable for pretty much any team, and with the recent problems between manager Bobby Cox and the young shortstop, Escobar could be shipped away.

Escobar has hovered around the .300 mark all season, and is very serviceable with 7 HR and 40 RBI. Teams that could have some interest in him are the A's, Reds, Padres, and possibly the Pirates if they choose to deal Jack Wilson.