"The Mariners had two scouts watching the Red Sox's Triple A affiliate on Wednesday night and one watching the Sox's Double A club, according to major-league sources.

The extent of trade discussions between the teams is not known, but several Mariners pitchers are drawing significant interest from multiple clubs – and right-hander Doug Fister, in particular, is a target of virtually every team seeking rotation help, sources said.

However, the Sox's primary focus could be left-hander Erik Bedard, who has not pitched since June 27 due to a strained left knee but will come off the disabled list Friday night against the Rays. The Sox are "all over" Bedard, one source said, and both the Sox and Yankees are expected to scout Bedard Friday night."