MLB rumors - Essay Help

Alright, so I'm reaching out to you all in need of some factual support for an essay I'm righting. The subject is regarding rumors in society, and I plan on citing the MLB trade deadline / off-season as one of many examples where rumors affect people's actions.

Do any of you know a particular example where trade rumors of FA rumors either played a part in ruining a deal or were held back by the GMs intentionally to avoid the media jumping all over it. I know there are examples out there (such as Robbie Alomar a long time ago), but I can't remember any specifically, especially where the rumor was proven to make a difference.

If you guys know of any, and could let me know, that would help a lot. And if you know of any sources / specific stories of this happening and could link me there, I would be especially overjoyed.

Thanks much.

*[Update]* Thanks a lot for the help so far. I'm leaning towards using the A-Rod example and possibly Billy Beane as well. If anyone knows where I can find more info on these (especially A-Rod), please let me know.