Red Sox, Yankees early leaders to acquire Downs

According to John Paul Morosi of FoxSports.com (via Twitter), the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees are the early front runners to acquire Blue Jays left handed reliever Scott Downs.  He also lists the Mets, Reds, and Twins are also involved.

Morosicalls the competition "fierce" as Downs is the only notable left handed reliever on the trade market.  However, Morosi says that the Blue Jays are asking for a lot in return for the reliever.

With Hideki Okajima, the Red Sox only left handed reliever having an off year, and the Yankee middle relief being their weak point; Downs would certainly be the answer for both teams.