Terrible news came in today, as reliable sources are reportedly claiming that Anderson might be out for the season. Obviously, this injury leaves a massive hole in our rotation. The drop-off from Anderson to a guy like Mazzaro or Ross is huge. I think many of us can agree that Anderson's rotation spot can NOT be filled admirably through internal means. If we want to stay in contention and win this wide open division, Beane will most likely have to go outside of the organization to acquire a pitcher. So who can he get and what pieces can he use to get him?

OPTION 1: Roy Oswalt, Houston Astros

Oswalt is clearly the best pitcher available right now. One question regarding Oswalt is that regarding whether or not he would approve a trade to Oakland. I think there is a chance he might, considering his preference for a competing team, in addition to the pitcher-friendly confines of the Oakland Coliseum. For discussion's sake, let's say he does indeed approve a trade to Oakland. What would it take to acquire him? I think it would take something like Mazzaro, Cardenas, Henry Rodriguez, and a C+ prospect. Is this too little? What do you guys think? Another issue with Oswalt is the large amount of money he is owed, but I think a deal for him would be worth it, as he would be under team control for more than just this year, we have a large amount of money coming off the books after this year, and he could replace Sheets in the veteran ace role after this season. Also, in terms of this season, a 1-2 of Sheets and Oswalt seems like a very dangerous combo, especially in the postseason. 

OPTION 2: Jeremy Guthrie, Baltimore Orioles

Guthrie is an intriguing option for a number of reasons. First of all, he is relatively inexpensive and is under team control for several years. Second of all, he has been quietly very solid for the Orioles the last few years, and would probably flourish pitching in Oakland. Lastly, Guthrie can be packaged with a nice hitter like Luke Scott, who would represent a nice upgrade in left field. What do you guys think it would take to get Jeremy Guthrie? What about a package of Guthrie and Scott? As with a potential Oswalt deal, I wouldn't mind giving up Mazzaro and a couple others for this package.

OPTION 3: Jake Westbrook or Fausto Carmona, Cleveland Indians

Jake Westbrook, like Ben Sheets, was injured all of last year. However, he has returned to form as a solid groundball pitcher this year. Carmona was awful last year, but has been fairly solid this year. Jake Westbrook probably represents the more solid option of the two, but he is fairly expensive and is a free agent after this year. Who would you rather have taking into consideration monetary and prospect costs. What would it take to get either Westbrook or Carmona? 

There are several other options out there. The Nationals might be willing to trade Scott Olsen, John Lannan, or Livan Hernandez (please no). The Mariners will be willing to trade Cliff Lee if they drop out of contention, but one would have to imagine that the cost of a trade of this magnitude within the division would be very large. The D-Backs are out of contention, and though unlikely, could trade Haren or Webb. Lastly, there are some deently intriguing free agent options, headlined by Pedro Martinez. But would he want to play for Oakland, and would he be effective at all if signed? Do any of you guys have any ideas you want to throw out there?