The Arizona Diamondbacks have designated Ryan Roberts for assignment, and that might not be the end for Roberts's moving. There are many indications that this is the earliest step in the process toward a trade being completed.
#Dbacks Ryan Roberts says he was told a trade is on the one yard line.
— Steve Gilbert (@SteveGilbertMLB) July 24, 2012
Roberts has been batting .250 in Arizona this season, knocking in six home runs and 34 RBI, although he's well off his averages. Roberts played very well in the majors last year. The infielder has played as a utility man most of the early part of his sting with Arizona, but became the everyday .249, but set career-highs with 19 home runs, 65 RBI and 18 stolen bases. However, it's clear Arizona is ready to move on to try and get better players and improve their squad.
Roberts probably wouldn't fetch all that much in a trade, but he could be part of the precursor toward a larger trade package for the Diamondbacks that would help alleivate some of their bigger needs.
The Diamondbacks have brought John McDonald back from the disabled list with a vacant spot on their roster.
Talk about the Roberts trade rumors by heading over to AZ Snake Pit.