Supposedly Boston is trying very hard to stay below the lux tax threshold this year. Trading for rather than buying relievers seems to be their approach. This might point them towards Andrew Bailey rather than Ryan Madson. I like the move for Houston and think it was a sell high moment. At least Melancon has 5 years of team control, two at MLB minimum. Lowrie has his faults, not the least of which is his injury history and platoon splits for a switch hitter. I like him, but he was a bit of a spare part in Boston, especially after exercsing Scutaro's option and bringing back Aviles.