Teams asking about Kyle Lohse's availability

It isn't clear if he is available for trade, but rival general managers have begun contacting the Brewers about the possibility of acquiring starting pitcher Kyle Lohse, according to CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman.

According to the report, the Brewers do not have a mandate from management to get rid of salary, despite what has clearly become a lost season. Lohse is under contract for three years, $33 million, but the Brewers would have to be blown away by a trade package to consider moving him, which is consistent with what has been reported for the last few weeks.

Lohse has a 3.37 ERA in 128 1/3 innings so far this season, and he has gotten better as the season has gone on. In 11 starts since June 1, Lohse has a 2.49 ERA and nine quality starts.