Could Sox get Angel Salome for Penny?

Brad Penny is steadying himself in the back end of the rotation after a tough start to the year. His ERA may be an unsightly 5.96, but he’s providing quality starts and keeping the team in the game.

However, with John Smoltz needing to be activated by June 19, a decision looms. It’s clear that Josh Beckett, Jon Lester and Daisuke Matsuzaka are more long-term options in the rotation than Penny. It’s also clear that the Sox won’t force Tim Wakefield out of the rotation in favor of Penny.

It boils down to two choices: does Penny go to the bullpen or is he moved to another team?

What the Sox can get is a solid prospect who could develop into a starter for the club.

A name came across my radar the other day that I think makes a lot of sense for both teams.