Because middle relievers are a crapshoot, and it doesn't make sense to give them long-term deals. I'd definitely look to deal Howry. This will be his second straight year with a HEAVY workload, and it wouldn't surprise me at all if he struggled next year. Besides, with Wuertz, we have an effective replacement. Dusty laughs at you because all he sees in Wuertz is a good AAA pitcher. In all seriousness, I agree that I think Wuertz could be a solid reliever. I don't want to trade Eyre/Howry but would be inclined to if the right deal was there. I would deal Dempster in a heartbeat though. Not for anything, but I wouldn't hold out for anything too special in return for him.