Red Sox Rumors: Team Exploring Trades Involving Alfredo Aceves, John Lackey

The Boston Red Sox are exploring trade options involving pitchers Alfredo Aceves and John Lackey, according to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe. Cafardo added the Los Angeles Angels and Red Sox have discussed a Lackey for Vernon Wells swap.

The Red Sox are one team the Angels have tried to start talks with; the Angels would love to get John Lackey back, but the Sox are intrigued by what Lackey might look like after Tommy John surgery.

Lackey led the American League with a 3.01 ERA with the Angels in 2007, but has failed to find success over three seasons in Boston. After an underwhelming first year with the Red Sox in 2010, Lackey led the AL in earned runs and posted a 6.41 ERA in 2011.

The 34-year-old had Tommy John last offseason, and was forced to sit out the entire year.

Wells has also been a disappointment. In his twos season with the Angels, Wells has hit .222/.258/.409. Even with Torii Hunter potentially leaving Anaheim as a free agent, Wells is likely to be the Angels' fourth outfielder.

Lackey is set to make $15.25 million over the next two seasons. Wells is owed $21 million each of the next two years.

Cafardo noted Aceves is "very much available" and that he was the player Boston was offering in a potential deal for Dan Haren that fell through. Aceves was a bright spot for Boston in 2011, but the 29-year-old struggled last season. Aceves was 2-10 with a 5.36 ERA and 1.32 WHIP over 84 innings.