The Mets traded backup catcher Ramon Castro to the White Sox on Friday night. New York's starting catcher, Brian Schneider, is ready to return from the disabled list and Omir Santos has impressed with a few game-winning hits. "Right now, I really like what Santos has brought, and it would be difficult for me to see him not be a part (of us)," Mets manager Jerry Manuel said of Santos. "He's been good and he's been good for what I would say is kind of an extended period of time."

The Red Sox have been watching Nationals first baseman Nick Johnson, according to a number of team scouts. Boston could be looking at Johnson as insurance in the event Kevin Youkilis struggles to return from his oblique injury. Johnson has a very good on-base percentage, something the Red Sox covet, and is in the final year of a three-year deal that will pay him $5.5 million.

The Pirates acquired minor league right-handed pitcher Eric Hacker from the Yankees organization in exchange for minor league right-handed pitcher Romulo Sanchez on Saturday. The 26-year-old Hacker went a combined 1-2 with a 6.03 ERA and 20 strikeouts in six starts with the Double-A Trenton Thunder and Triple-A Scranton-Wilkes Barre Yankees this season before being designated for assignment on May 9. Hacker, who was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis following the trade, was originally selected by the Yankees in the 23rd round of the 2002 draft.

The Cubs have acquired Ryan Freel from the Orioles in exchange for outfielder Joey Gathright and cash considerations. Freel could move right into Chicago's lineup after third baseman Aramis Ramirez left Friday's game with a dislocated left shoulder. He is expected to provide depth in both the outfield and infield. "Plus, when we play our right-handed lineup, when he's not in there, we'll have a right-hand bat sitting on our bench," manager Loy Piniella said. "So from a versatility standpoint, it helps us."