The Padres are well out of the postseason hunt. So as these things must go, it's just about time for management to start stripping the roster for parts prospects, making deals with contenders who don't mind giving up one or two good young players for one good veteran.

Carlos Quentin's been the biggest name in the rumor mill, but Quentin's not the only one. He might not even bring in the biggest return. Jon Heyman:

The Chase Headley market remains hot, with the Dodgers, Pirates, Indians, Orioles, Diamondbacks and at least two other teams believed to have some level of interest in San Diego's switch-hitting third baseman.

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It shouldn't be a surprise Headley is popular considering the paucity of proven hitters on the trade market. The Padres don't have to trade him, but do have a top prospect, Jedd Gyorko, who seems ready to play third base in San Diego.

The Padres could keep Headley into the winter when the Braves, Reds and Phillies may join in the hunt for him. Those teams could have third-base openings to fill this winter.

As Heyman points out, Headley's a better than you might think; away from Petco Park, he has an 811 career OPS, which is quite good for a solid defensive third baseman like him.

Of course, with five teams and two mystery teams supposedly interested, it's difficult to pinpoint the sort of players the Padres might receive in a deal. Especially since it's always the mystery team that winds up with the player.

Headley's spent his whole professional career with the Padres, but whatever sentimental feelings he might have about the organization, he would likely welcome a home ballpark that's not soul-killing.