Touching 'Em All

Jon Heyman

March 24, 2008

The Josh Hamilton--Edinson Volquez trade looks like it may work out well for the Rangers and the Reds. Hamilton (right), Texas's new centerfielder, was 18 for 30 (.607) with nine extra-base hits at week's end, and Volquez could make the Reds' rotation after throwing five shutout innings against the Phillies on Sunday.... Switch-hitting Eugenio Velez, the sensation of Giants camp because of his speed and versatility, will likely make the club as a utilityman.... The Giants need help at first and third but are balking at giving up a top prospect for White Sox third baseman Joe Crede, who was hitting .091 after returning from last June's back surgery.