[NYY #23]

It was July 9th and the White Sox had won their first seven games of the month, but it was time to make a deal.

It came down to two teams, the Pirates or the Dodgers. The Pirates offered a pair of young catchers to chose from, neither who were perfect, but both were very costly. I could put together a five player package that wouldn't hurt too bad, but it was more than I was comfortable giving up.

So we went with the Dodgers, who offered up 32 year old Salvador Perez. He's fine behind the plate, and hitting .289 this year. We ended up shipping off Mike Brumley in the deal, shortstop Alfredo Amezaga, and reliever Greg Erardi. I really like the flexibility Amezaga offered us, but he needed to be included to complete the deal, and it's an upgrade at the catcher position.

Of course we lost the next seven games right after the trade, and with a 16-13 month it was our worst month of the season. Coincidentally we also lost Guzman for the rest of the month the very next game, but I think we'll be alright.

Red Embree of the Athletics won his 200th career game. Ken Boyer of the Dodgers picked up the 2000th hit of his career.

And finally, Todd Hollandsworth again won the Rookie of the Month after hitting .284 with 3 home runs, 13 RBI, and 12 runs scored. I'd think he should be a lock for Rookie of the Year at this point.