With the MLB trade deadline 24 days away, the Pirates are open to offers for All-Star second baseman Freddy Sanchez who is less than 271 atbats from receiving an $8 million option for the 2010 season.
The two teams in strongest pursuit of Sanchez are the Minnesota Twins and San Francisco Giants. The Pirates have held a number of discussions with both teams but the team to watch are the Chicago Cubs.
With the Cubs ownership sale almost finalized, the Cubs are now in position to move on Sanchez.
The prospect the Pirates have their eye on in the Cubs organization is pitcher

Jay Jackson (2008, 9th round). The hard throwing righty is 4-3, 3.10 ERA for Class AA Tennessee. Jackson is projected to arrive in the majors by the 2010 season.
Because of the option Sanchez will warrant for next season, the Pirates are going to do what they can to move Sanchez as the asking price is currently 2 mid-tier prospects.
The Cubs, Twins and Giants remain the top three suitors for now and the Tampa Bay Rays will likely join the mix as the trade deadline gets closer.

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