BOSTON — Even Adrian Gonzalez couldn't escape the trade rumors.
A report indicated the Los Angeles Dodgers expressed subtle interest in acquiring the Red Sox first baseman in the days leading up to last week's non-waiver trade deadline. Despite hearing that his name was dangled around, Gonzalez remained unfazed.
"Teams are going to ask for any player they think will help their team win," Gonzalez said. "I've been traded three times now and I know what rumors are all about. Teams are going to call and check in on players. I know how the whole baseball end of it works."
The Dodgers have demonstrated newfound aggression during the deadline, pulling off trades for Hanley Ramirez, Shane Victorino and Joe Blanton. The team also claimed pitcher Cliff Lee on the waivers before the Phillies decided against shipping him away.
Gonzalez will be owed $21 million annually through the 2016 season. In 2017 and 2018, his salary would rise to $21.5 million. Considering the team's change in ownership, the Dodgers are in position to pay Gonzalez the big bucks if the opportunity arises.
It's unlikely the Red Sox will trade Gonzalez via the waiver wire — at least this season — but the slugger still took the Dodgers' interest in his services as a compliment and vote of confidence.
"Absolutely," Gonzalez said. "Teams are interested in you, they're trying to better their team and if they feel like you're a guy, they’re going to call the team about it. Obviously I'm here, I'm happy to be here and I don't want to go anywhere. But that's not my decision to make."
This season, Gonzalez has whacked 11 home runs and 66 RBIs while lifting his batting average to .304.
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