The Red Sox, facing a critical roster decision as they welcome back Jed Lowrie and Mike Lowell in the next week, have made it known to teams around the league that they would be willing to eat a large portion of Lugo's salary in a trade. This season, Lugo is hitting .284 with a .353 on-base percentage in 123 plate appearances. He is an average fielder at best, and is owed 9 million dollars for the next two seasons.
Not many teams are looking for an experienced shortstop, especially one with as large a salary as Lugo's. But if the Red Sox were to eat a major portion, they could probably land an above average prospect. The Padres and Red Sox have been regular trade partners over the past few seasons, and if they ate the majority of the salary, they could probably swing a deal.