The Cliff Lee Sweepstakes Are On!

So say reports from ESPN.com.

This is not unexpected. After all, the front office of the Mariners built the team on pitching and defense, and forgot that there aren't penalty shootouts, corner kicks and other set pieces in baseball. Translated, the Mariners just cannot hit, and they're sellers. Again.

So Cliff Lee didn't make the post-season roster for the Indians in 2007, was traded to the Phillies in the middle of 2009 for four prospects, was traded to the Mariners after the 2009 season for three prospects, and will be traded again before July 31 because his contract will expire after this season. In his early 30's, Lee will get a great deal as a free agent because he pitches great. Atop that, he's fun to watch, he works quickly, and he looks like the most relaxed pitcher in the history of Major League Baseball.

The Twins and Rangers appear to be the front runners, and wherever he goes, he'll make his team a serious contender to make the playoffs and to go far in them. He was money last year for the Phillies, and he'll be money again for a contender. The Rays also are in the hunt, and they have the type of prospects that the Mariners would want/command (they had about 11 of Baseball Prospectus's top 101 at the outset of the season, a statistically significant number).

If you're a fan of a team that is on the cusp, holler loud and clear for Cliff Lee.

You won't be sorry.