escobar is definitely ready this season then? They seem to think so. Even if he isnt this year, Hardys on a 1 year deal, and I doubt they'll re sign him next year, so theyd probably lik to get something in return. These guys really need pithing, and they have a god enough lineup that they coul move Hardy and get a decent pitcher in return, certainly better than 4 of their 5 starters. If they were willing to move Fielder and trust Gamel at 1st, they could get something much better, but I dont think they're quite ready to do that. Hardy still has another year of arbitration left. They could always keep him for another year until he hits free agency after the 2010 season. If they truly feel Escobar is ready, they might trade Hardy anyway just to get the best value for their ballclub, but they don't have to worry about losing Hardy at the end of the season.