The San Diego Padres have had internal discussions about acquiring John Lackey, so long as the Boston Red Sox eat most of the pitcher's remaining contract, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Lackey previously worked with Padres manager Bud Black when he was the Angels pitching coach.
Lackey has three seasons remaining on a five-year, $82.5 million contract, plus an option for 2015. The 32-year-old was 12-12 with a 6.41 ERA in 28 starts for the Red Sox in 2011.
The starting pitcher has received his share of criticism lately for his reported actions during games, including drinking and playing video games.