There was speculation that he had a slightly torn laburm (?) but that rumor was refuted by the Braves. I think the Red Sox planned to keep him but when Damon flew the coop they were forced to act. I think you're right. In fact, I head an interview with Larry Luchinno (prior to Damon signing) where he stated that after giving up Hanley Ramirez in the Josh Beckett trade that they liked the idea of bringing in Marte as a way of replacing the loss of a top prospect. I think the Red Sox had every intention of keeping Marte, but like you said, the need for a centerfielder has forced their hand considerably. I guess I'm just curious as to why the Braves ever traded him? Was it a bad move by them, to get Renteria? Boston trading him, at least to me, makes more sense. They have Lowell, and after Lowell, I'd imagine they'd go with Youkilis. As you have said, they needed a CFer, so they used their assets to fill a void, probably overpaying a bit, but that's okay for a team like Boston. I just don't understand the Braves reasoning.