Potential trading partners are quick to point out closer Octavio Dotel's propensities for injury and putting runners on base. But the Royals are quick to defend him -- noting that Dotel's somewhat less than sparkling 3.91 ERA is the result of a just a few bad outings, and that he has 11 saves.
More important is Dotel's refusal to give up more than a hit an inning while striking out more than one per inning. The Royals see Dotel as having been a key contributor in helping the team go 23-19 since the beginning of June, and are in no hurry to give him up too cheaply.
Meanwhile, the deal remains a distinct possibility as bullpen mates Joakim Soria, David Riske and Zack Greinke can be expected to step up if needed. The Indians and Tigers are among teams thought to be participating in negotiations.
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