ESPN's Buster Olney sparked a controversy saying the Rays were going to market Upton in the offseason.  Upton haters have been saying good riddance because of perceived attitude issues/regression/lack of hustle, ec.  Upton supporters have been screaming this is foolish to even consider because of immense potential/still under team control for a few seasons/selling low, etc.

Both sides are wrong.

The Rays should consider Upton offers the same way they would for any player.  Having a surplus of outfielders means there's some flexibility there.  Regardless of Upton's year, he still could fetch a very good haul. 

And that is the only way he puts on a different uniform.

Adrian Gonzalez.  Felix Hernandez.  Matt Cain.  Buster Posey.  If names like these are not part of the consideration, then no trade is happening.  If Upton isn't part of a Delmon Young-type package, this isn't happening.

Felix Hernandez is extremely interesting.  It would take a huge package, but there are a few reasons why the Rays are a good fit.  Seattle has an affection for Reid Brignac.  Thanks to trading Adam Jones, they are in need for an impact CF.  Some sort of a Upton/Brignac and a Niemann/Davis/Hellickson could get a deal done. 

A deal like that makes sense.

Hernandez is under contract through 2011.  Is two years of Hernandez worth Upton, Brignac and a Niemann/Davis?  Yes and then some.  Hernandez would be an even bigger name if he was in a larger market.  Players of his age and caliber are rarely ever available. 

Which brings us back to Upton.  You don't give up on a player of his potential nor do you sell for pennies on the dollar.  I still believe there is a strong likelihood Upton is traded.  But if he does, I'm sure the haul will be worth the trade.