Peavy on the Block

Padres pitcher Jake Peavy has been the subject of much speculationfollowing his rejection of a trade to the Chicago White Sox last week. Sources say Peavy was intimidated at the prospect of playing for tempermental manager Ozzie Guillen. Peavy has a no trade clause and therefore has veto power over any trade. Sources say he would like to remain in the National League, and he is seemingly perfectly content to remain in San Diego. On the one hand, one can harldy blame peavy for wishing to remain a Padre; playing for the Padres has to be one of the best jobs in the world. You're a professional baseball player. you live in San Diego, and you have no pressure or expectations. However, one would think that an elite athlete would thrive on competition and the chance to prove yourself on the biggest stages, which is why it would make perfect sense for Peavy to move on and pitch for a contending team. Rumors claim that Peavy does have the psyche to play in baseball hotbeds such as New York, Philadelphia, or Boston. If this is the case, Peavy needs to take a deep hard look at if he really wants to be a professional athlete.

If Peavy does accept a trade to a conteder, where would he best fit in? The best answer lies in the team visiting San Diego this week, the Philadelphia Phillies. The defending champions have a core group of stars such as Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins who are all at the peaks of their careers right now; it is best to go for another title while the window remains open. Additionally, starter Brett Myers is undergoing hip surgery that likely leave him out for the remainder of the season. With a stable of young arms in the minor league system, the Phillies have the pieces to get the deal done. It's up to you Jake, are you content with mediocrity, or do you want to win a championship?