Report: Red Sox want 2 elite-level prospects for Lester

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It's looking increasingly likely the Boston Red Sox will deal Jon Lester before Thursday's non-waiver trade deadline, and whichever team gets him will be landing one of the best arms available.

Not surprisingly, the Red Sox are seeking a return that provides just as much impact.

Via the Boston Herald:

Based on information from major league sources, including executives who commented on condition of anonymity, the Red Sox have spoken with as many as eight teams about Lester’s availability, notifying them that they will require at least two elite-level prospects in any deal. One source said the Sox haven’t prioritized getting a power-hitting outfielder, although it remains their primary need. At this point, they seem more interested simply in obtaining the best possible return.

Lester was scratched from Wednesday's start against the Toronto Blue Jays, signaling a potential trade is imminent. 

With the Red Sox lefty set to become a free agent at the end of the season, a source tells the Herald the club is still keeping things close to the vest.

"No idea. They’re hard people to read," one National League executive said of the Red Sox' brass. "I think they will move him is my guess. They believe their guys in Triple A are good and don’t want to pay him $140 (million)-$150 million. That’s their choice."

The Los Angeles Dodgers and St. Louis Cardinals are believed to be the front runners to land the 30-year-old left-hander. Both clubs possess the high-end prospects the Red Sox are looking for and have reportedly been aggressive in their pursuit of a top-of-the-rotation arm.