So much for the Reds' Jay Bruce as the National League's version of Evan Longoria: In his first 18 games, Bruce had a batting average/on-base/slugging line of .382-.468-.632. In 44 games since, Bruce has batted .228-.260-.363 . . .
Is it possible that Cardinals third baseman Troy Glaus could win a Gold Glove in his first season replacing Scott Rolen? Well, Glaus' four errors are the fewest by a National League third baseman; the next lowest total is eight. Glaus also ranks fourth in zone rating, behind the Braves' Chipper Jones, Phillies' Pedro Feliz and Dodgers' Blake DeWitt. Jones is on the disabled list; DeWitt no longer is playing regularly . . .
The Blue Jays weren't the only fringe contender that had the idea of acquiring the Mariners' Raul Ibanez, adding his professional bat for two months and then accepting draft picks if he left as a free agent. The Rangers discussed the same type of move . . .
Of course the Rockies are willing to take a chance on right-hander Livan Hernandez. This is a team that recently gave two starts to left-hander Valerio de los Santos, whose only two previous major-league starts were in 2000 with the Brewers. De los Santos, 36, predictably went 0-1 with a 5.63 ERA for the Rockies, allowing 17 baserunners in eight innings.
