Multiple outlets are reporting that the Braves have reached an agreement with free agent SS Rafael Furcal.  Several reports also mention that this signing means Yunel Escobar will be made available.  Escobar was mentioned early on in Peavy trade talks, I guess those could fire up, and I am sure the Dodgers, A's, and Blue Jays would be interested as well.   Should this be a guy the Reds are interested in as well?

Escobar has been pretty good at the MLB level at a position that isn't exactly easy. in 833 MLB at bats, he has posted a respectable  .303/.373/.420 batting line. As the solid OBP shows, he isn't afraid to walk, with 86 in the 833 AB's.  He has K'd 106 times.

Beyond the Box Score recently ranked him as the Number 8 most valuable shortstop in 2008.  He seems to have plus range and be above postion average offensively.   Would he be worth giving up an arm or two for?  We know the Braves have been interested in Bronson Arroyo at the deadline each of the last two seasons. Obviously with so many teams hunting for help at short, the price will be a bit high.  The Braves may even opt to kept Escobar, and move him to second base and opt to trade Kelly Johnson instead.  Why not package Arroyo and a youn bullpen arm and take a shot?

Maybe an Arroyo and Roenicke package could get us a young, affordable shortstop for the next 2 or 3 years? If the Braves don't want Bronson's salary, maybe they would like Homer.  Either way, If I was Walt, I would be on the phone.