"Some general managers predict an eventful four days of wheeling and dealing at the Winter Meetings starting Monday in Dallas, and the Braves will be involved in plenty of rumors — whether they like it or not, and whether or not the reports have validity.

They are still looking for a shortstop and a power-hitting outfielder, and it's no secret they are more inclined to trade for players than sign expensive free agents.

While Braves general manager Frank Wren rarely discusses with reporters any specific players he's pursuing, officials with many teams aren't nearly so tight-lipped. As a result, trade talk is leaked by some teams, fueling even more speculation.

Rumoring tends to become widespread this time of year, particularly around teams that choose to neither confirm nor quash most of the reports.

"I've actively shopped players this fall [according to some reports] that I haven't even mentioned their names," said Braves general manager Frank Wren."