Andrew Baggerly in the Contra Costa Times speculates on Pat Burrell for Armando Benitez trade. It seems Burrell is willing to waive his no-trade clause for a move closer to home.

On Burrell:

Burrell, the first overall pick in 1998, hit .258 with 29 home runs and 95 RBI last season. He strikes out often but gets on base; he drew 98 walks and had a solid .388 on-base percentage.

He also has chronic pain in his right foot that did not improve after surgery following the 2005 season. He remained in left field because the Phillies have Ryan Howard at first base.

But Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said Burrell could be an adequate first baseman.

"He's more athletic than a lot of first basemen I've seen," Manuel said. " He'd be fine over there."

Burrell isn't an ideal fit for the Giants, who want to build a more dynamic lineup and eliminate station-to-station runners. But there are few available hitters who can match Burrell's run production.

Baggerly even thinks Philadelphia would be a good fit for Benitez:

A Phillies source said Manuel wants new choices in his bullpen, that he isn't afraid to take on difficult personalities and would welcome an effective Benitez.

Benitez told head trainer Dave Groeschner this week that his right knee rehabilitation is going well and he has no pain or swelling.

"It's an arthritic knee so anything can change, but we're pleased with his progress," Groeschner said.

It would be more of a money swap than a talent swap.