Pirates: Freddy Sanchez, Jack Wilson Reject Extension Offers, Trade(s) Looming

The Pittsburgh Pirates have reported that their 2B/SS tandem of All Star Freddy Sanchez, and Jack Wilson have rejected re-worked contracts of two years apiece.

Apparently, the figures were so far off that the two are not even going to make a counter offer, that's how insulted they felt by the proposals. 

Sanchez reportedly received a two year, $10 million offer, and Wilson received a two year, $8 million offer. 

Obviously, not enough to keep them playing for a pathetic excuse for a baseball franchise.

This puts the Pirates in a bind. They have no top prospects, like an Elvis Andrus from the Rangers, that are major league ready to handle the everyday role competently. 

Both Sanchez and Wilson are set to become free agents after this season. Both have options, with Sanchez at $8 million and Wilson at $8.4 million, for next season. Wilson's option will not be picked up by the team, which points to him being traded now to receive at least some compensation, likely nothing more then mediocre prospects. 

For Sanchez it could go either way in regards to his 2010 option, but the Pirates also face receiving nothing more then mediocre prospects in a trade because his 2009 salary is guaranteed at $8 million if he reaches 600 AB's, he already has 348 in 80 games.

To add to their trading woes, because of those short contracts teams are not going to give up their top prospects for what could potentially be a rent-a-player.

There have been, and will be, plenty of teams who are linked to the pair of trade chips. The Mariners could even go as far as acquiring both players, the Giants have been connected, as well as the Twins, among others.

The countdown until July 31st stands at 12 days. The Hot Stove is sure to get some scorching coals thrown on it by then.