Whether Julio Lugo remains the Devil Rays shortstop or is traded to the Red Sox appears contingent, to a degree, on whether Boston can work a trade for disgruntled Orioles shortstop Miguel Tejada. Rays executive vice president Andrew Friedman declined comment on what other teams are doing and how the permutations could affect Tampa Bay. "As we've been saying," he said Thursday, "if a trade presents itself that makes sense for what we're trying to do now, and in the future, that will be something we're prepared to do." So, let's connect some dots. If the Red Sox don't land Tejada for their vacant shortstop position (the Boston Globe reported they offered leftfielder Manny Ramirez and pitcher Matt Clement), they could sign former Marlins shortstop Alex Gonzalez, the best option among remaining free agents. But it is difficult to believe Boston wants Gonzalez more than Lugo, who is a better hitter and bats leadoff. It also is possible, if the Red Sox get desperate enough, they will cough up prized third-base prospect Andy Marte, over whom the Rays are salivating. So, assume Tampa Bay and Boston are talking.