Dan Connoly from the Batlimore Sun is reporting that the Orioles are getting close to dealing first baseman Derrek Lee to the Pirates for a Class A hitting prospect. Here is his tweet:
@danconnollysun
Dan Connolly
The player in the Lee deal is a A-level hitter. But Is need to be dotted. Ts crossed. May not be announced until tomoro
5 minutes ago via web Favorite Retweet Reply
I looked at the Pirates Low A roster and there is no big name hitting prospects on their West Virginia roster.
Lee is having a down season at the plate as he is hitting just .248-.306-.409 with 12 HRs and 41 RBIs in 330 at bats. He is hitting much better in the second half though. In 53 at bats, he is hitting .321-.369-.604 with 3 HRs and 13 RBIs.
It appears the Pirates are looking for Lee to continue his second half hot streak. He will at least offer the Pirates a solid clubhouse presence.