The Padres Have Discussed a Headley-Upton Swap?

Here is an interesting story from the fine folks at mlbtraderumors.com: The Padres have discussed a trade involving Chase Headley and Justin Upton. Whoa, my mind is blown.

According to the report, the talks have gone back as far as July. The talks were described as “on-and-off” again. Hopefully, they are mostly off.

My first thoughts is that the deal has to have more pieces involved. It makes little sense to trade a Gold Glove, Sliver Slugging third baseman for a right fielder coming off a down year. I have always been enamored with Upton, but I would need to get more to move Headley. A lot more.

September 8, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Chase Headley (7) during his at bat during the ninth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Headley established himself as arguably the finest third baseman in the game last year. Third baseman with his skills simply do not grow on trees. The Padres would need to add more then Upton, although he would be a nice start.

Personally, there is almost NO way that I would move Headley but I am going to play Devil’s advocate here. I propose this deal:

The Padres send Headley to Arizona for Upton, Trevor Cahill and Anthony Meo.

Perhaps this seems like a lot for Arizona to give up, but I do not think so. Arizona gets a top third baseman, while the Padres get Upton, a young innings-eater in Cahill and Meo.

Meo pitched last season in the California League and posted a 4.11 ERA in 25 starts. He has good peripheral statistics and a good, live arm. He may eventually end up in the bullpen.

I would still have a hard time agreeing to this trade, as Headley should be viewed as virtually untouchable at this point. An intriguing rumor, nonetheless.