Burning up in Arizona, dealing in California

The Braves might want to hold onto Tyler Flowers. DOB reports the C/1B continues to terrorize AFL pitchers, hitting .419 with six homers in 12 games. Of his 18 hits, 12 have been for extra bases, including, inexplicably, two triples. 

If the Braves do hold onto him, maybe Freddie Freeman, who checks in 25 points lighter than the Roswell native, could play left field, It's more likely Flowers will end up elsewhere. Slugging catchers are a rarity, and Flowers has turned himself into an attractive trading chip. 

Speaking of prospects, the GM meetings commence this week with the Bravos trying to figure out a way to get Jake Peavy without giving up Tommy Hanson (13.2 IP, 0 runs, 4 hits, 3 walks, 19 strikeouts and 3 wins in 'zona). If the Pads prove stubborn, look for Wren to make a play for Burnett, Lowe or Dempster. 

And don't be surprised if he gives White Sox GM Ken Williams a call about Javier Vasquez, who's reportedly on the block. Vasquez, who turns 33 in July, was awful down the stretch, a year after it looked like had finally acclimated to the American League. You'll recall Ozzie Guillen basically labeled him a choker. 

No doubt Javy could use Bobby's calming influence. And I know the Braves hierarchy are fans of the Puerto Rican-born righty from his years in Montreal. 

In 2003, his last year as an Expo, Vasquez struck out 241 in 230 innings, walking just 57 while compiling a 3.24 ERA. He bombed in the Bronx, was okay in Arizona and erratic in Chicago. But his splits remain enticing, and he never gets hurt, averaging 218 innings per season. 

Plus, his contract is reasonable: 2 years, $23 million. The Sox seek a middle infielder; Martin Prado and a mid-level prospect might get it done. 

As for Magglio Ordonez, I gotta disagree with the esteemed Mr. Harcavey. Reportedly the Tigers are looking to clear some payroll, meaning they're motivated sellers. The Braves might be able to get the career .312 hitter for a Kris Medlin-type, with, say, Brandon Jones and Brent Lillibridge thrown in. 

Keep an open mind about acquiring veterans. It's difficult, but the Braves -- with money to spend and a deep farm system -- are in a position to both rebuild and reinforce. If you can get players like Vasquez and Ordonez who are near the end of their contracts without dealing core prospects, why not do it?

 --CB