Hot- Stove

Brian Giles, who at season’s end can either be set free or retained for 2009 with the pickup of a $9 million option, could be an asset to any number of ballclubs, including those contenders in his native California, the Angels and Dodgers (if the latter can truly be called a contender). He could also help the Yankees as a designated hitter if Hideki Matsui’s absence threatens to be a lengthy one and would be a boon to the Mets’ outfield in either corner. However, Giles does have limited no-trade protection, and his willingness to relocate might depend both on the promise of his option being picked up and how eager he is to leave his homeland for a possible championship ring.– NY Sun