Jays Rumors

Some new Jays stuff to check out.

• The Jays' president Jim Godfrey is serious about bringing in a top Canadian player. Jason Bay, Erik Bedard, Ryan Dempster, Rich Harden, and Eric Gagne are available.
• The Jays are in on the Eric Bedard, almost sweepstakes. That rumor has been going on since May. JP Riccardi is trying to be aggressive and creative this offseason. There may be some kind of crazt dealing.
• Some kind of a deal that would send AJ Burnett to the Orioles is an option, but doesn't make sense for the O's, and Burnett probably isn't too keen on playing there.
• The Orioles want Alex Rios and Dustin McGowen for Bedard. Riccardi could try to puch Shaun marcum and Adam Lind, but may require something else. The O's could look at Travis Snyder.
• The Giants have said that the Jays could have Tim Lincecum or Matt Cain for Alex Rios.
• The Giants also could have moderate interest in Troy Glaus and Adam Lind.

Cubs OF

The Cubs are looking for a left handed hitting outfielder. The Cubs are taking a serious look at Kosuke Fukudome, and may consider Raul Ibanez as a fall back option. The Cubs are planning on making a serious offer to Fukudome. The Mariners aren't shopping Ibanez right now, but definitly could trade him if the price is right. Matt Murton should definitly get the deal done. The Cubs aren't very big on Murton.

Mariners and Rockies Interested in Marcus Giles

2B Marcus Giles was horrible this year, and his $4M option was declined by the Padres. It's known that the Mariners aren't tpp huge on Jose Lopez, and the Rockies lost Kaz Matsui to the Astros. Giles made $3.75M this past season, and isn't likely to get more than that for '08.

Dukes Going to Washington

The Rays have shipped of troubled OF Elijah Dukes to the Nationals for pitcher Glenn Gibson. A trade had been in the works for a little while now. The Nationals now have great depth at outfield. The Rays get a 20 year old lefty pitching prospect in Gibson. Not a surprising move, even though the Rays recently sent of OF Delmon Young to Minneasota. The Rays have had interest in Geoff Jenkins.

Today's Santana Rumors

As always, today's trade rumors for Santana. Not too much new in the world of Johan.

• A report had Santana demanding to be traded to the Yankees or Red Sox, that rumor was false.
• The Mariners aren't in the running for Santana anymore.
• The Twins aren't worried about the Yankees deadline, and are in no rush to trade him.

Haren's Price is High

The Athletics are believed to be open to offers for ace Dan Haren. Although, the asking price is massive. The A's want two of Ian Kennedy, Phil Hughes and Joba Chamberlain from the Yankees. That's steep. It doesn't look like Santana;s asking price will include two blue chip prospects. It's rumored that if the Angels land Miguel Cabrera, the A's will have a firesale. That should mean that Dan Haren will be traded, along with Huston Street, Dan Johnson, Mark Kotsay, Rich Harden and possibly Joe Blanton.

Marlins Want to Keep Willis

The Marlins have decided that they don't want to trade pitcher Dantrelle Willis. Willis has gotten some interest, but the Marlins want to hold on to him. The price is believed to be two solid prospects. The Marlins say that the would trade him if they were "blown away" by an offer. I could see the Mariners, Mets, and D'Backs interested, depending on how the Johan Santana deal goes down.

Crawford Not Available

Now that Delmon Young has been traded, the Rays will not be looking to moce Carl Crawford. The interest level should be pretty high if he was made available. The Cubs had interest, but are now looking for a left handed outfielder. Kosuke Fukudome is believed to be the biggest target. Other options would be Raul Ibanez, Ryan Church, Milton Bradley, Randy Winn, Gary Matthews Jr., Luke Scott, Geoff Jenkins, David Dellucci, and Shawn Green.

More Santana Rumors

What would we do without a daily dose of Santana rumors?

• It's rumored that the Red Sox will include Jacoby Ellsbury in their offer. But not Jon Lester. It's a one of the other thing. Ellsbury and Bucholz sounds pretty good to me.
• The Yankees will not put in Alan Horne, Austin Jackson, Dellin Betances, Ian Kennedy, or Jose Tabata. Phil Hughes and Melky Cabrera are still in the deal.
• The Yankees deadline for the Twins to decide on their offer is Monday, but isn't been taken seriously.
• Santana has told the Twins that he wont waive his no trade clause once the season has started. It's now or never for the Twins. What they can get from the Yankees and Red Sox is way better than the two draft picks that they would get.

Padres Close to Extending Peavy

A while ago, I mentioned that the Padres wanted to extend Jake Peavy. Now, the talks are getting serious. Peavy gets $6.5M in '08, and $11M in '09. It's believed that Peavy's extension will cover 2010-11, worth around $17M. He'd be takeing a serious home town discount. He'd easily get atleast $20M as a free agent.

Astros Sign Matsui

The Astros have signed SS/2B Kaz Matsui to a three year deal worth $16.5M. Matsui could easily become the biggest free agent bust in 2008. He only hit .256 away from Coors field last season. Tadihito Iguchi is probably the best free agent 2B now. The Rockies are looking at other free agents to fill the void that Matsui has left. Mark Loretta, Iguchi, and Marcus Giles are options.

More on Cabrera and the Angels

More info has come in on the Angels offer for Miguel Cabrera. The Angels aren't too happy with the Marlins' recent demands, but are leaving the door open to negotiate. The Angels' offer is Jeff Mathis, Howie Kendrick, Ervin Santana/Nick Adenhart, and one other prospect. The Angels want both Santana and Adenhart. The Angels don't want to give up both pitchers. I'd agree too that that is too high of a price to pay.

Edmonds Would Waive His No Trade Clause

Veteran St. Louis OF Jim Edmonds has said that he will waive his no trade rights, if the Cardinals decide to trade him. Edmonds has had a lot of injury troubles in his career, and might not get much interest. The Cardinals are known to be interested in starting pitching. I don't know hoe much Edmonds could get the Cards. He has $8M owed to him for '08. If the Cards eat some some of his salary, there could be more interest.

Pirates Want to Dump Nady

The Pirates are looking to get rid of OF/1B Xavier Nady. Nady isn't bad for an outfielder. His .278/.330/.476 line from last season isn't too bad. His .800 OPS will get some teams interested in him. The Bucs are in trade talks with the Indians invloving Jason Bay, and unless they can get a decent outfielder in return, then they night want to keep him for another year. Nady is a Scott Boras client, and is eligable for arbitration.

Santana Rumors

This is becoming a daily feature here. Today's new rumors involving Twins' starter Johan Santana.

• The Yankees will include Phil Hughes in their offer. It's believed to now ne Hughes, Melky Cabrera and another prospect. Shortstop Alberto Gonzalez and starter Alan Horne have been discussed. Austin Jackson has also some up too. The Yankees will be giving up quite a bit for Santana.
• The Red Sox have been off and on with Santana. It's known that the Sox don't want to trade Jacoby Ellsbury, but Coco Crisp is available. The Sov would part with one of Jon Lester and Clay Bucholz. The Sox are trying to push Crisp at the Twins, but likely won't settle for Crisp and one of the pitchers.

So who's offer is better here? It looks like the Yankees, but the Red Sox throwing in Ellsbury is suppossed to shift the lead to the Red Sox. But will it? Hughes has been ranked higher than Lester and Bucholz, but we can basically cancel each other out. Cabrera and Crisp probably are on the same line. The Yankees also have the extra prospect thrown in. It looks more like the Yankees, but the Red Sox could be givin gup two blue chips.

Why is Migeal Cabrera getting far more than Santana? The Marlins can get three or four rock-solid prospects from the Angels who are major league ready, and the Twins would be lucky to get two top prospects.

Padres Sign Randy Wolf

The Padres have reached an agreement on a one year contract with P Randy Wolf worth $8M. Wolf will need to pass a physical first. Wolf has battled injuries in the last couple years. He had Tommy John in 2005, and hasn't really returned since. He has struggled since the surgery. He pitched for the Dodgers last season.

Red Sox Sign Timlin?

It's believed that the Boston Red Sox have signed veteran reliever to a one year contract worth $3M. Timlin was unsure about if he would play again. Timlin was likely brought back to be a veteran presence in the bullpen.

Yankees and Lorreta

The Yankees have been rumored to be close with free agent infielder Mark Loretta, but they're not. The Yanks have talked with Loretta a while back, but nothing that is believed to be serious. The Yankees could use Loretta at first or depth. The Rockies could use Loretta after losing Kaz Matsui to the Astros for three years.

Kuroda Coming to MLB

Japanese pitcher Huroki Kuroda has decided to play in North America next season. He wants three years, and probably around $10M per. Many teams have shown interest in Kuroda, the Mariners have shown strong interest and have a four year offer to Kuroda.

Arbitration Tidbits

Tonights deadline for teams to offer arbitration to eligable players was 9PM EST. It has nwo passed, and we should learn over the next few days of who has been offered. If a player is offered arbitration and the player declines, the team can recieve compensation for him if he is a Type A or B free agent. Otherwise, the team will get nothing. If a player is not offered arbitration, than the team can't recieve compensation draft picks. If arby is accepted vy the player, then there will be a hearing, and a contract will be decieded by an arbitrator.

Angels and Marlins Have More Problems

The Marlins and Angels have been talking Miguel Cabrera for some time now. The Marlins have had high demands for Cabrera, but the Angels are saying that they are too high. In the deal for sure, well not officially for sure but most likely to be are Jeff Mathis and Howie Kendrick. The Angels are fine with that. The Angels also would throw in one of Ervin Santana, Joe Saunders and Nick Adenhart. Here's the catch, the Marlins want two of the pitchers, the Angels only want to put in one. Any one of these three pitchers with Mathis and Kendrick would be a nice haul. The Marlins mau have to settle for Mathis, Kendrick, Santana/Saunders/Adenhart and Reggie Willits. That's a crazy haul for the Marlins.

Catching Up

Life has it's twists and turns, and has kept me away from my computer for the last couple days. I've looked over the last couple days, and will sum up the main points here, hopefully getting myself caught up.

• The Mets traded OF Lastings Milledge to the Nationals for OF Ryan Church and C Brian Schneider. To me this is a steal for the Nats. Milledge was a prized prospect in the Mets' system. Church is probably an underrated outfielder, but isn't as good as Milledge should be in '08. Schneider was probably the reason for the trade. The Mets get a solid defensive catcher. Now, finding a platoon partner will be on the list. The Mets could have got more for Milledge, I think.
• The Tigers signed Kenny Rogers to a one year deal worth $8M.
• Troy Percival was signed by the Rays to a two year deal worth $8M.
• The Cardinals signed INF Cesar Izturis to a one year deal worth $2.85M.

Padres Rumors

A few Friars rumours.

• The Padres will offer Mike Cameron arbitration, but it's believed that he will decline it.
• The Padres like Japanese reliever Kazuo Fukumori.
• There is some interest in Andruw Jones, but signing him seems unlikely.
• The Padres are talking with Geoff Jenkins.

Rays Close with Percival

Reports have Troy Percival close to signing a multiyear deal with the Tampa Rays. Nothing is final, but the Rays are more than in the lead for Percival. The Rays would have a nice veteran pitching staff with Percival, Al Reyes, and Dan Wheeler. Juan Rincon would have really complimented that group. The Yankees, Brewers, Giants, and Astros are still in on Percival.

Garza/Young Blockbuster

A huge deal was struck today invloving the Twins and Rays. The Twins send Matt Garza, Jason Bartlet, and Eduardo Morlan to the Rays for Delmon Young, Brendan Harris, and Jason Pridie. The Twins had Juan Rincon in the deal, but elbow concerns caused the Twins to put in Morlan. This is a pretty even swap to me. The Twins get their oufielder in Young, and now have a ton of depth, and the Rays get another solid major league ready propect. This trade will likely take a few years ti determine who the real winner will be.

Santana Rumors

The never ending saga of Johan Santana continues. These are the teams that are believed to be interested in acquiring the pitcher.

• Yankees: The Yankees have the best prospects, the money for Santana, and the guts to get a deal done. Robinson Cano and Joba Chamberlain are believed to be untouchables. So Melky Cabrera, Hughes/Kennedy and another pitcher could get the deal done. If that's all that the Yanks give up, than they have gotten a steal.
• Red Sox: The biggest reason why the Sox are here is that the Yankees are here. The BoSox already have an amazing pitching staff. But, they don't want to trade Jacoby Ellsbury, which could provide a huge problem. Instead, the Sox want to trade Coco Crisp along with Bucholz/Lester is what the Sox want to offer. Jed Lowrie, Brandon Moss, and Kevin Youkilis are believed to have been discussed too.
• Angels: The Angels will liekly only provide a little bit of pain in the Yankees side as to acquiring Santana. The Halos have the players, but won't likely be making a solid offer.
• Mets: The Mets have there sights set on Dan Haren and Joe Blanton, but will likely get invloved in the Santana sweepstakes. Like the Angels, the Mets have the pieces.
• Mariners: Probably a dark horse for Santana. It would likely take Adam Jones, Brandon Morrow and Jeff Clement. That's a pretty steep price.

Rockies Sign Torrealba and Herges

The Rockies have brought C Yorvit Torrealba and P Matt Herges back. Yorvit is believed to be getting a two year deal worth $7M or so, with an option. Herges is believed to be getting a one year deal worth around $2M. Neither of these signings stand out, but both are low risk signings that could easily help out the team.

Odds and Ends

Random Rumors from a busy Hump Day.

• The Orioles don't have any interest in Jose Guillen. On Monday, I noted that the Orioles and Royals were leading for Guillen.
• The Angels aren't going to be looking at trading for Johan Santana. Instead, the club has it's sights set on Miguel Cabrera and Miguel Tejada.
• An unconfirmed rumor has the Cubs offering Kaz Matsui three years and $14M. The Astros and Rockies are still in on Kaz.
• The White Sox might rather trading for Coco Crisp, rather than signing Aaron Rowand. Pretty easy decision here. Rowand will probably cost the Sox five years and $60M, and Crisp will likely only cost a decent prospect. Josh Fields would likely be too much for the Sox, so maybe Jose Contreas?
• Huroki Kuroda may want a four year deal, seeing as he is believed to be the best free agent pitcher on the market.
• Scott Boras may hold back on offers to Kyle Lohse, and than sell him for five years. Five years for Lohse. This is a crazy market.
• If Mark Prior is non-tendered, than it is believed that almost every team in the league will be interested.
• The Pirates may try trading Matt Morris. Morris seemed like an okay pickup from the Giants for OF Rajai Davis, but now is a pretty dumb acquisition.
• The Cardinals have interest in Jack Wilson, Ceasar Izturis, and Miguel Tejada. The David Eckstein era in St. Louis is likely over.
• The Mets like Dan Haren and Joe Blanton as trade candidates. The Mets defineatly have the pieces for a trade. Lastings Milledge and Aaron Heilman wasn't enough for Haren. Maybe Carlos Gomez could get something done.
• The Mets also might consider Livan Hernendez as a number three or four option.
• The D'Backs are believed to no longer be looking at an anual payroll, instead a three year plan. Probably in the $230-240M range. That'd be about what the Yankees spend a year. The D'Backs will likely have more money to spend each year than before.
• Scott Linebrink's deal is official. He also gets some kind of no-trade protection.
• The Rangers might be looking at signing Mike Cameron to a two year deal, or Kosuke Fukudome for three. Both would make sense and help fill the Rangers outfield hole.
• If the Rangers are going to sign some free agent pitchers, than they will likely be rebuilding projects. Freddy Garcia, Matt Clement and Bartolo Colon come to mind.
• The Brewers don't seem likely to trade for a high end closer like Joe Nathan or Chad Cordero. Instead, the Brewers would like to sign Troy Percival to a one year deal to close in '08.

Cubs May Make Prior Available

The Cubs have untill December 12th, the last day to offer contracts for 2008 to unsigned players, who haven't filed for free agency. Then, the arbitration process will occur and all of that good hard to explaine stuff. The idea of trading Prior has recently come up. Prior will be a free agent after the '08 season, and hasn't pitched in the bigs since August 2006. Giving Prior a one year deal worth $3M with incentives and an option would probably be what the Cubs would like to do, although, it might not be that easy. Then there's non-tendering Prior, which makes no sense to me at all. Trading Prior for a hopeless prospect mkes more sense. I could see the Cubs bringing Prior back. Afterall, they did bring Kerry Wood back.

Angels and Marlins Hit a Wall

The Miguel Cabrera talks have cooled off a lot. The Angels have said that they could give up a combo of Howie Kendrick, Jeff Mathis, Ervin Santana, Joe Saunders, Nick Adenhart, Reggie Willits, and Brandon Wood. I'm guessing three of these guys. But, the Marlins can't make a decision. If I could get a hanful of these players, I'd be jumping at the oppurtunity.

Valverde Wants Big Bucks

D'Backs closer Jose Valverde is coming off of a league leading 47 saves last season, and wants to be rewarded for his performance. Considering that he made a mere $2M in arbitration in '08, his first year of eligability. Valverde is believed to be looking for a four year deal in the $50M range. Valverde looks like he wants to be paid like a Mariano Rivera, instead of a player with four years of service time. If Valverde can't get the nice multiyear deal, than he will be looking for $10M in '08. The D'Backs are believed to have offered aroound $4M for '08. If no agreement is reached, than an arbitration date will be happening in the near future, and with the deal that Mariano Rivera and Francisco Cordero got, I'm scared to see what Valverde could get.

O's and Royals Leading for Guillen

It's believed that Baltimore and Kansas City are leading for Jose Guillen's services. I noted a couple days ago, that the Royals had interest in Guillen, but Baltimore is coming from left field, where Guillen would likely play. Not a bad showing for Guillen despite the steriod allegations surrounding him. Maybe he could get his three year deal worth $30M or more as he had originally wanted.

Closers for the Brewers

After losing out on Fracncisco Cordero, the Brew Crew are searching for a new closer. The team was believed to have offered Kerry Wood a two year deal worth $6M, but he passed. Offereing a one year deal to Eric Gagne would make sense. So would an offer to Octovio Dotel, or Troy Percival. Gagne would take atleast $5-6M as a base. Not too sure about Percival or Dotel yet. Percival is getting a lot of attention for his services, while Dotel...not so much. There aren't any real bonafide closers on the market fight now. Gagne only closed half of last year, and hasn't gotten back to his Cy Young form. He looks to me like a good risk. Troy Percival was a half decent closer once apon a time. Who knows now.

Odds and Ends

Todays rumors that probably aren't worthy of their own post.

• The Rockies are getting closer with Torrealba, but are still keeping Paul Lo Duca and Micheal Barret on their radar.
• Matt Herges will likely make a decision on where he will play withen the next couple days. The Rockies and Brewers are said to be leading for Herges' services. He'd like to stay in Colorado, but wants a two year deal.
• The Astros signed veteran pitcher Doug Brocail. No terms have been announced.
• Mike Piazza may go to Japan, if he can't find somewhere in North America.
• The Angels may try trading Gary Mathews Jr., after signing Torri Hunter. Jr. has four years left, and a good hadful of money to be paid, along with his steroid allegations.

Yankees Talking Santana with Twins

It's now semi-official. The Yankees have began negotiations with the Twins for who could be the best pitcher in the world, Johan Santana. The Twins had offered Santana an extension, he countered and the Twins didn't want to go that high. Now, as expected, the Yankees have started negotiating for Santana's service. Santana has one year left on his deal before he can become a free agent.

The Yankees would have to give up atleast one of Robinson Cano, Phil Highes, Joba Chamberlain, and Ian Kennedy. A package of Melky Cabrera, Cano, and one of the three pitchers has been thrown around. I'd say that these talks will go on for a long time. The Twins want a lot, and the Yankees will likely try to get out of this with as little damage down as possible. If the Yanks can get Santana without losing one of the four mentioned, than they will most likely be pulling off a huge steal.

Cubs Bring Back Wood

The Cubs have brought Injury prone reliever Kerry Wood back to close for '08. One year worth $4.2M garunteed, with up to $3.45M in incentives. No options on this deal. I'd say that it would be pretty tough to find a reliever with the upside that Kerry Wood has for one year and no option. The $4.2M is a bit of a risk considering Wood's injury history. Wood is believed to be the team's new closer, bumping Ryan Dempster to the starting rotation.

Odds and Ends

The best post of the day.

• The Angels and Marlins are getting closer to a deal involving Miguel Cabrera. It's believed that the Angels will part with Jeff Mathis, Reggie Willits, and Howie Kendrick. Nick Adenhart is on the Marlins' radar, and could be the missing piece.
• The Pirates have some interest in Matt Clement.
• The Tigers are still in the mix for Octovio Dotel.
• Mariners GM Bill Bavasi and manager John McLaren met with free agent starter Huroki Kuroda, and are expected to make an offer in the four year $45M range.
• Carlos Pena is believed to have been offered a three year deal worth $30M.
• The Brewers are looking at Troy Percival after losing Francisco Cordero.
• The Mets are talking Bengie Molina with the Giants. The Mets have already acquired Johnny Estrada, but as they say, you can't have too much depth.
• The Pirates are listening to offers for Jason Bay.

Santana May Have a No Trade Clause

It's been known that Johan would get no trade protection for '08, if he finished in the top 3 for this year's Cy Young award. He didn't, so it became believed that the Twins could trade him to whoever they wanted. Now that the Twins have started to make him available, it's been brought up that Santana may have no trade protection anyway. This will defineatly make the Twins life a little more difficult. It's becoming safe to assume that Santana now controls his new future, and probably unfortuneatly for the Twins, he may not want a part of the Yankees, Red Sox rivalry.

Angels Will Keep Improving

The Torii Hunter signing won't stop the Angels from making deals. The team has expressed interest in trading for Miguel Cabrera and Miguel Tejada. With the Torii Hunter and Jon Garland acquistions, the Angels now have a lot of players available. The asking price for Cabrera is sky high, although, the Angels can trade the wanted players. The Marlins want four solid prospects, so Jeff Mathis, Reggie Willits, Howie Kendrick, and one of Nick Adenheart/Ervin Santana/Joe Saunders sound good?

Tejada should cost the Angels maybe two prospects. Willits and Santana should easily get him. Tejada would play at third.

Mets Like Freddy Garcia

The Mets have already placed a phone call to Freddy Garcia. The free agent pitcher is coming off of major surgery, and won't be ready untill June. Maybe pulling a Roger Clemens type thing. Garcia could get around $8M for the half season. He's not a $16M pitcher, but in this market, anything could happen.

Reds Sign Cordero

The Reds have signed free agent closer Francisco Cordero to a four year deal worth $46M, with an $11M club option for 2011. The Reds have been rumored to have been in close contact with Cordero's party for a while. The Brewers had offered a four year deal worth $42M. No word as to if Cordero gave the Brewers time to match the Reds' offer.

Twins Only Offered Santana a Four Year Extension

This just keeps getting more confusing. A few days ago, it was repoted that Santana was offered five years and $93M, to begin the '09 season. Now, it was only a four year offer worth $80M. The other year and $13M would be Santana's '08 salary. Then, it was rumored that Santana made a counter offer of $126M, over a believed five years. $25.2M a year by my incredible math skills. That's a lot of dough. That $5M or so a year, over the five plus years wanted could be the difference.

The option that is looking a little bit more enticing, is to trade Santana around the time of the Winter Meetings. The bounty for Santana would be sky high. Possibly beyond Miguel Cabrera territory. Atleast two blue chip prospects, and one or two top prospects. The usual Red Sox, Yankees, Angels and Didgers come up. All the teams with the best prospects of course.

Joe Kennedy...

Our thoughts and prayers are with Joe Kennedy's family, after learning of the 28 year old's death today. Kennedy was found dead in his room. No cause has been determined. Kennedy spent the last part of the 2007 season with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Royals Like Guillen

With the Angels signing Torii Hunter, the Royals will now look at Jose Guillen as a right handed power bat. The Royals had made an opening offer of five years and $70 to Hunter, and were ready to spend a lot more. Now that he's gone, Guillen is number one for KC. Guillen wants three years and $30M, but because of steriod allegations, that number could drop a little bit. Maybe more of an incentive deal world make sense. The $70M to sign Hunter could be spent on Guillen, and a free agency pitcher. Carlos Silva and Huroki Kuroda want fouor years and $40M, so there is your $70M on a power bat and top pitcher.

Rockies Rumors

Today's scoop of Rockies rumors.

• The Rockies seem close with Matt Herges on a two year deal. But Herges is still talking with another other team that wants to make an offer.
• The Rockies are also getting closer with Yorvit Torrealba. The Mets lost interest, so Torrealba came back to the Rockies. The Rockies had offered two years and $7M, but the Mets offer will likely put the price up a little bit.
• Kaz Matsui will likely be out of the Rockies reach. He's meeting with the Astros and Cubs in the next week.

Santana Counters

A couple days ago, the Twins made an offer to Santana to extend his deal. Today, it's been reported that Santana's party has made a counter offer. Santana was offered five years and $93M, in the linked post, and it's believed that he countered by asking for $126M. It's unkown if it's over the five years, or maybe seven. The Twins backed off at the counter offer, and will likely begin to shop Santana. The Red Sox and Yankees would jump in right away. Possibly just to not let the other get Santana. The Yankees have been noted to include Phil Hughes in talks. So maybe Hughes, Robinson Cano, Melky Cabrera and another pitcher? The Red Sox might trade one of Jon Lester and Clay Bucholz. So Lester/Bucholz, Coco Crisp and another solid prospect could grab the Twins' attention.

Angels Sign Hunter

In a surprising move, the Halos sign Torii Hunter to a five year deal worth $90M. The Angels already have a load of outfield options, in saying that, signing Hunter doesn't make sense. But considering that the Angels want Miguel Cabrera, the signing makes perfect sense. Reggie Willits is now available and will likely be a trading chip. With Hunter in center, and Vlad in right and sometimes DH, ut looks like Gary Mathews Jr. and Garret Anderson will do some kind of a platoon thing in LF and when Vlad isn't DHing. If the Halos trade a Reggie Willits, Howie Kendrick, Joe Saunders and Ervin Santana package for Miguel Cabrera, and it's taken like it should be, the Angels will be stacked. Whatch out for the team with the really long name.

White Sox Sign Scott Linebrink

The White Sox boosted their bullpen today, signing free agent lefy Scott Linebrink to a four year deal worth $19M. That's a lot for a reliever. The Sox's 8th overall pick is protected, so the Brewers have to be dissapointed. Four years for a 31 year old pitcher is a long time. Linebrink is a good pitcher, but this signing doesn't seem that wise to me.

Phillies Make Offers to Kuroda and Wolf

The Phillies are believed to have put in offers to free agent pitchers Huroki Kuroda and Randy Wolf. The Phillies are looking to spend $10-20M this offseason. Matt Clement, Kris Benson and Mike Wood also interest the Phils.

No Aaron Rowand update yet.

Odds and Ends

Same as always, today's random rumors.

• The Yankees may seem willing to include Phil Hughes in trade talks.
• The Marlins want four 0-3 players for Miguel Cabrera. Same names as usual come up. They would also ask for two 0-3 players for Dontrelle Willis, if they decide to trade him. The Mets, Mariners and D'backs would have interest.
• The Twins will only trade one of Johan Santana and Matt Garza. If Santana isn't traded, Garza will likely be flipped for a young hitter.
• The Rangers have some interest in Scott Posednik. He could be a fall back option for Torii Hunter.
• The Dodgers are believed to have put in a three year offer to Mike Lowell.

Hunter Recieves Five Offers

One of the most talked about free agents on this blog is Torii Hunter. Today he was believed to have recieved an offer from the Rangers, White Sox, Dodgers, Royals, and Nationals. No financial terms are known. If the Yankees trade Melky Cabrera or Johnny Damon, they would likely get invloved. Hunter wants to have his decision made before the Winter Meetings so he doesn't have to go.

Percival Getting Strong Interest

Troy Percival went from a solid reliver in '05, missed all of '06, and came half way through the '07 season to pitch very well with the Cardinals. Now, Percival is a solid free agent option. I don't know why one good year makes believers out of everyone. The Yankees, Brewers, Giants, Astros, and Rays have been rumored to be interested in the 38 year old's services. The Dodgers, Indians, Cardinals, Braves, Athletics, Phillies, Tigers, and Marlins were interested in Percival last summer.

Blanton and Haren

Oakland's two top starters have been inquired on, but the A's haven't decided whether to trade them or keep them. Trying to win while rebuilding is a very tough thing to do. If one of Blanton, Haren or Huston Street go, then it will be likely for all of them to go. Either go for it or blow it up. The Dodgers, Mets, Diamondbacks, Mariners and Yankees are teams that need pitching and are willing to trade top prospects for a top starter. All of the teams would be making phone calls to Billy Beane if Oakland is going to pack it in for '08.

Mets Pick Up Estrada

The Mets made a swap with the Brewers today, sending pitcher Guillermo Mota to to Brew town for C Johnny Estrada. Not a bad pickup for the Mets because Mota has been very hittable and prone to the long ball. Estrada is a non-tender candidate and will likely cost atleast $4M in arbitration. The Brewers will probably put down atleast that much for Jason Kendall.

Odds and Ends

Daily dose of random rumors.

• The Padres have talked with Mike Cameron. Nationals, Rangers adn Cubs have too.
• Melvin Mora would waive his no trade clause for teams in the same area, ie. Phillies. He would also move to LF if needed.
• The Phillies offered Mike Lowell 4/$50M, before he signed back in Boston.
• The White Sox deignated Scott Posednik for assignment.
• The Cardinals signed Jason LaRue to be their backup catcher.
• The TIgers have started talking with Kenny Rogers again.
• The White Sox recieved $1.5M in the Goarland/Cabrera deal.

Miguel Cabrera Rumors

Time for a Miguel Cabrera update. The Angels, Dodgers, Giants, and White Sox have been rumored to be interested in trading for the slugger. A few day ago, the Angels were believed to be leading the sweepstakes. It was also believed that a trade could be completed by the weekend. But now it's believed that the Dodgers have the lead. The package from the Dodgers would have to include Matt Kemp, Andy LaRoche, and Clayton Kershaw or more. The Angels have been rumored to be offering a package of Ervin Santana, Howie Kendrick, Chris Bootcheck, and Nick Adenhart in the next little while. Other options from the Angels could be Joe Saunders, Brandon Wood, Mike Napoli, Jeff Mathis, or Reggie Willits. It seems like the Angels may have the best players, but either way (LAA, LAD) you can't go wrong.

A White Sox package of Josh Fields, Ryan Sweeney, and Gio Gonzalez just doesn't seem comparable to the above. The Giants don't make much sense, and I don't see the Rangers making the move either.

If the Didgers get Cabrera, than they'll turn to free agency for an outfielder. Aaron Rowand seems to be the most popular option.

Yankees Like Relievers

The Yankees are believed to be interested in free agent relievers Ron Mahay and Scott Linebrink. No known offers have been made.

Signing Linebrink would cost three years and $12M atleast. Not to mention their first round draft pick. Scott Linebrink would make sense for the Yankees because they have money to wash down the toilet, and could use some bullpen help. The Astros have made an offer to Linebrink, and many other teams are believed to be interested. Being a Type B, Mahay doesn't carry the risk of losing a first rounder that Linebrink would cost. Both are quality relievers and would help out the Yankees.

Brewers in on Hunter?

The Brewers could be a new club in the mix for FA Andruw Jones. The team needs an outfielder with Geoff Jenkins leaving. Bringing in Andruw and moving Bill Hall to third and Ryan Braun to left is an idea. The Brewers would likely have to let Francisco Cordero walk to make this acquisition.

Andruw and One Year

Free agent CF Andruw Jones is coming off of a sub par year, and has been rumored to be looking for a one year deal to rebuild himself for the next offseason. His agent Scott Boras has said that he won't listen to any one year offers for his client, but his client said that he will listen to any offers. The Nationals are the only other team to express a level of interest, and not just phoning them up for no reason.

Indians Sign Masahide Kobayashi

The Indians dipped in to Japan to pick up the reliever. It's a two year deal with an option. No other terms have been announced. The 33 year old will have a physical in the next day or two to have the deal officially signed. The Braves and Mariners had interest. Kobayashi has said that he would prefer to close, but would be a reliever if that was what the team wanted.

Rangers Talking Five with Hunter

Torii Hunter is said to be the Taxas Rangers' top priority this offseason, and the two sides shared a meal last night. The Rangers are trying to rebuild, and building the team around Torii would make sense. Hunter has been rumored to be asking for 6/$90M in his next contract. 5/$60M won't be enough because that's about what Aaron Rowand will get. Five years at $15M per, would give Hunter $75M over the five. Texas has about $20M extra available thanks to Alex Rodriguez opting out. Putting a chunk of that towards a guy like Torri Hunter would make sense.

Update: Rivera Signs with Yanks

UPDATE: Soures say that Rivera has accepted the deal.

Mariano Rivera been believed to have accepted the Yankees 3/$45M contract. Rivera had origanally wanted four years, but settled for three. A report said that Rivera would settle for two years and an option. So not only did the Yankees seriously overpay for Rivera, but the report shoves their face in it. The Rivera contract should seriously affect the negotiations that will occur with Fransisco Cordero and Joe Nathan.

Bavasi Meeting Kuroda...in Japan?

The Mariners may send over their GM BIll Bavasi to Japan to talk with FA SP Huroki Kuroda to try and convince him to come over to the Coast. The Mariners have advantages in geography, their home park, and their current Japanese personnel, so Kuroda could be an easier target than say Kenny Rogers. Kuroda has had sucess in the JPL, and should do ok in the MLB.

Jays May Offer Arbitration to Towers

Most of us know that Josh Towers has pitched terrible the last couple seasons, and should see his $2.9M salary from last year jump to $3-4M. Towers probably could make something out of his career in the NL. JP Riccardi probably knows that and will shop him to the NL. The Rockies, Padres, and Phillies would have interest for sure.

Astros and Kaz Close?

Kaz Matsui may be going to Houston, as reports indicate that Matsui is close to signing a three year deal with the Astros. The Astros could use a good second baseman with Craig Biggio retired.

In other news, the Brewers are close with Jason Kendall.

Hunter and Sox Kind of Close

The White Sox and free agent CF Torri Hunter could agree on a deal within the next week. Otherwise the Rangers and Royals have had interest. 6/$90M has been thrown around. $15M a year isn't bad for Hunter considering that Aaron Rowand will likely get $10-12M annually. Bringing in a player from a rival team would stir up a little bit of something in the AL Central.

Holliday Wants More Than Four Years

The Rockies were planning on offering Matt Holliday a four year extension worth $60M within the next little while. Holliday said that he was honoured, but that wouldn't be enough. Boras believes Holliday to be worth $18-20M a season, so is the wanting more than four years Holliday or Boras talking?

Lowell Signs in Boston

Mike Lowell has decided to stay in Boston signing a three year deal worth $37.5M. It was believed that Lowell was offered a deal in the 4/$55-60M range by the Yankees, but I guess Lowell's heart was in Boston. $12.5M a year is pretty good for Lowell, although he probably could have gotten 3/$45M from the Yankees. Staying at third in a city that loves you, or changing positions in your rival town. Fairly obvious choice.

The Red Sox seem certain that Coco Crisp will be traded to make room for Jacoby Elisbury. There have been some talks with the Twins. The Red Sox would also jump in to negotiations with the Twins if Johan Santana became available.

White Sox Trade Jon Garland For Orlando Cabrera

The White Sox made a move today sending P Jon Garland over to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, California for Orlando Cabrera. The appears to be a fairly even swap. It makes sense for the Angels because they have Brandon Wood, Erick Aybar, Chone Figgins, and Maicer Izturis who can play short. Or is this a trade to make room for Miguel Cabrera? The Angels can boast their pitching rotation with the addition. They already have John Lackey, Kelvim Escobar, Jered Weaver, Joe Saunders and Ervin Santana, so Jon Garland is just icing on their big cake.

I don't see this being a great decision for the White Sox. They already signed Juan Uribe, who will play at short or maybe second. Does this acquisition set up a Joe Crede trade? The White Sox rotation is down to Mark Beurhle, and Javier Vazquez, with a mess of Jose Contreras, Josh Danks, and maybe Gavin Floyd or Gio Gonzalez. I'd say that the Angels did a bit better in this deal.

Braves Sign Glavine

It's official now. The Braves have brought Tom Glavine back for one year and $8M. The Mets shouldn't mind too much because they get the Mets #18 pick next year. The Braves offered Glavine one year and $7M originally. The Braves now have a solid set of pitching. Maybe dealing a pitcher or two for a religable center fielder would make sense.

Report: Mets Sign Castillo

A report indicates that the Mets have signed FA 2B Luis Castillo to a 4/$25M deal. An official announcement is expected in the next few days.

Jays Trade for Scutaro

The Jays filled their shortstop problem, sort of, by trading two minor league arms to Oakland for SS Marco Scutaro. Scutaro is expected to do some kind of a platoon thing with John McDonald. Scutaro did better at the plate than Johnny Mac last year, and is ok with the glove. Meanwhile McDonald is a Gold Glove caliber shortstop with minimal hitting ability. McDonald signed a two year extension with the Jays a while back, and will make $1.9M this season. Scutaro will make $1.55M.

A couple other Jays notes:

• The Jays have had some contact with Matt Clement. JP Riccardi has "Always liked Matt."
• Sal Fasano may be brought back to back up Gregg Zuan next season.
• Reed Johnson will be the leadoff hitter next season, meaning that Matt Stairs will be a back up. I don't know where that puts Adam Lind. Maybe on the trade block?

Rivera Signs with Yanks

Mariano Rivera has accepted the Yankees 3/$45M contract. Rivera had origanally wanted four years, but settled for three. A report said that Rivera would settle for two years and an option. So not only did the Yankees seriously overpay for Rivera, but the report shoves their face in it. The Rivera contract should seriously affect the negotiations that will occur with Fransisco Cordero and Joe Nathan.

Report: Twins Make Offer to Santana

More of a rumor than a report is that the Twins have made an offer to Johan Santana for 5/$93M, starting in the '09 season. $18.6M a year for Santana is believed to be below the market value for him. If Santana reaches free agency after next season, it's believed that he could get north of $20M annually. Santana will be 29 in '08. Santana is argueably the best pitcher in the games of baseball right now, so it makes sense that his paycheck reflects that.

The Red Sox, Dodgers, Mets and Yankees have shown somewhat serious interest in trading for the pitcher.

Odds and Ends

Looking around today.

• The Mets deal with Torrealba might have backfired because of the catcher's shoulder problems.
• The Yankees like Francisco Cordero as their Plan B closer if the Mariano Rivera talks fall though.
• The Twins don't want to bring back Corie Koskie for another try, although the team needs an upgrade at third.
• The A's have lost their interest in Barry Bonds. Bonds' trial date may force him to miss regular season time.
• The Rangers talked to the Mariners about 1B/LF/RF Ben Broussard. The Mariners probably aren't looking to pay Broussard more than the $3.55M he made last year to be a backup. Although he did get some crucial playing time when Richie Sexson, well sucked.
• Aaron Rowand may be looked at more intensely than Torii Hunter. Rowand wants 5/$60M, while Hunter wants 6/$90M. Hunter is a much more proven player with a lot of skill, but is two years older than Rowand.
• The Cubs like Luis Castillo and Kaz Matsui to play second next year.

Mets and Torrealba Fall Through

What seemed to be official earlier in the week is now not. The three year deal worth $14.4M that FA C Yorvit Torrealba was suppossed to have signed has fallen through. It was rumored this morning that the deal was losing life, and was confirmed by the Mets brass this afternoon.

Blum and Astros Close

Reports say that Geoff Blum has agreed to a deal that would bring him back to Houston. Blum played in Houston in 2002 and 2003. The Astros have a hole at second base with the retirement of future Hall of Famer Craig Biggio, but it isn't believed that Blum will have a starting job. Would this signing mean that Mark Loretta will not be back?

Odds and Ends

Today's random rumors.

• The Tigers have shown interest in Hiroki Kuroda.
• Torii Hunter wants a seven year deal now.
• The Twins are looking at Tony Clark as a potential DH option on the cheap end. Clark wants two years and $4M, and more playing time than what he got last year with the Diamonbacks.
• FA P Kris Benson will pitch in Arizona after the winter meetings.
• David Eckstein wants the same kind of deal that Julio Lugo got a year ago.

Braves Offer $7M to Glavine

The Braves have made a one year $7M offer to free agent pitcher Tom Glavine. It's believed that Glavine has made a counter offer, and a deal is expected to be done shortly. With Glavine the Braves will have a lot of pitching depth with John Smoltz, Tim Hudson, Tom Glavine, Chuck James, Mike Hampton, Jair Jurrjens, Jo-Jo Reyes, and Buddy Carlyle, who all could pitch in the Bigs next season. Trading one of the pitchers noted would make some sense. The Braves almost have a Yankees situation with a hadful of blue chip pitching prospects, who could get them a lot, but don't want to lose them. With John Smoltz and Tom Glavine looking to be on the last legs of their career, and Tim Hudson and Mike Hampton have had injury problems in the past, so too much pitching depth is a good idea at this point in time.

Catching Up

I've away from my computer for the last day, so this post will sum up most of what happened yesterday:

• The Mets have some interest in David Eckstein as a second baseman. Eckstein might be a plan B for Luis Castillo. Eckstein might be able to get 3/$21M as a shortstop, but stands no chance getting it as a second baseman.


• The Mets would also like to trade for Orlando Hudson. Although they do want to save theire best trading chips for a front line starter via trade such as Johan Santana.


• The Yankees signed Jose Molina to a two year deal worth $4M to backup Jorge Posada.


• The Royals are close to signing Japanese pitcher Yasuhiko Yabuta to a two year deal.


• Kenny Rogers fired his agent Scott Boras, after he declined the Tigers two offers to him, without consulting his client.

Should the Jays Trade a Youngster?

An interesting thought. Should the Jays trade one of their stud young pitchers in Shaun Marcum or Dustin McGowen? Shaun Marcum has to be at very high value right now, and is an excellent turning 26 in December year old pitcher. Marcum posted a 4.13 ERA with a 12-6 record in '07. Marcum has a higher than average home run rate, but could land a decent player in return.

Dustin McGowen has proved that he has remarkable stuff. His ERA was over 4, and he only had a 12-10 record, but his near no-hitter earlier in the year was proof.

I really think that trading one or both of these pitchers would be the right move for the Jays. I would like to see both of these pitchers grow into amazing pitchers, in a Blue Jays uniform.

Barry Bonds Indicted

Today's most interesting news is that of Barry Bonds' indictment for perjury and obstruction of justice. Bonds could be looking at some serious jail time. Not to mention his playing career being over and home run record in serious question.

A-Rod and the Yankees Reach Tentative Agreement

A huge wrench has been thrown over the last few days. Today it was announced that the Yankees reached a tentative agreement with the Yankees for 10/$275M. A raise from last season, but far below what he was expected to make. Agent Scott Boras was asking for 10/$300M+. This should really help the Marlins when they try to deal third baseman Miguel Cabrera.

Mets Catching Situation

As most of us know, the Mets have been rumored to be close to signing free agents Yorvit Torrealba and Ramon Castro. Today it was announced that the Mets have signed both. Torrealba a three year deal, and Castro a two year deal. Not a bad platoon pairing. Castro's deal is worth a total of $4M, and Torrealba's deal is believed to be worth $15M.

Rivera Wants Four Years

I would like to know why the 3/$45M deal offered to free agent closer Mariano Rivera is still on the table. $15M a year for a relief pitcher is absurd, and Rivera is crazy not signing that yet. Rivera is looking at the contracts of Jorge Posada and Billy Wagner that have them signed through their age 41 seasons. 4/$60M for a closer is crazy, unless it is Francisco Rodriguez...

The Yankees are still the favourite for Rivera's services, but should do the wise thing and go to a plan B. Would Joba make a good closer next season?

Padres Want to Extend Peavy

NL Cy Young winner Jake Peavy is looking to be extended by the Padres. Peavy is under contract for $6.5M in '08, and $11M in '09. Peavy's value on the open market would get $18M annually. The Padres will probably not give him that. An extension for 2010-11 worth around $34M would probably do the trick. Peavy is putting up amazing numbers at a very young age. If he continues to improve, his salary could get past $20M within the next couple of years.

Orioles Hope to Extend Bedard

It seems that the Orioles' main concern is locking up the forth place pitcher in the Cy Young voting Eric Bedard. The Mets, Yankees, Angels, and Dodgers have expressed interest in trading for a southpaw. Bedard has two years left before free agency so the Orioles will likely be looking to sign Bedard for four years or more. Bedard could be worth $65M over the four years. If the Orioles decide to trade the Canadian lefty, than they will be looking for three major league ready prospects.

Third Time's the Charm

My first Cubs interest in Crawford post said that the Cubs were set to offer the Rays a package for Crawford's services. My second post said that the Cubs weren't interested in Crawford. Now in the third post of this series, the Cubs still are in on Crawford and are looking at making an offer.

Yankees Want Lowell at First?

Weird news. An A-Rod signing won't stop the Yankees push for Mike Lowell. The Yankees would like to add him to play first base, if they sign A-Rod. If no A-Rod, than Lowell would be wanted at third. It would likely take extra money to play first. Lowell has had rumored to be offered a four year $55-60M deal fom the Red Sox, Angels, Cardinals and Braves. Taking a couple million extra to stay at third makes sense.

A-Rod Negotiating with Yankees?

Shocking some people, but not others, is Alex Rodriguez's contract talks with the Yankees. The Yankees said that they wouldn't brung A-Rod back if he opted out. He opts out, the Yankees talk with him. Sounds Yankeeish to me. A 10/$280M deal has been thrown around. Is A-Rod looking to sign a below market deal to improve his public appearence? A-Rod is valued way higher than that. A-Rod returning to the Bronx would throw off almost all of the expectations set out for him, ie. the Dodgers abd Angels. How would A-Rod returning to New Yok change the Miguel Cabrera sweepstakes?

Mets Close with Catchers

The Mets are close to resigning Ramon Castro yesterday, and are believed to have reached an agreement. The Mets are also believed to be offering Yorvit Torrealba a three year contract worth $15M. $5M a season is crazy for Torrealba. Castro and Torrealba aill likely split playing time.

Cubs and Crawford

My earlier post of the Cubs being interested in trading for Rays LF Carl Crawford has been shot down. The Cubs had interest in Crawford but weren't set on making a serious offer yet. Crawford would make some sense with the Cubs. Although, Alfonso Soriano is a decent leadoff hitter.

Other Rays news. Al Reyes' option for '08 was picked up. $1M base salary plus another $1.3M in incentives.

Odds and Ends

Today's random rumor roundup.

• Tom Glavine's people are set to meet with the Atlanta Braves' people sometime in the next week. It's believed that Glavine would take a one year deal worth $8M with a mutual option for '09 from the Braves.
• Troy Percival is now a hot commodity. It's rumored that about ten teams are interested in his services.
• The Padres have interest in Matt Kemp.
• The Cardinals announced that 3B Scott Rolen is available. Apparently Rolen will waive his no trade claus. He still has three years and $36M left on his deal.
• The Rox are talking with Micheal Barret.
• The Blue Jays may go after Matt Clement again this offseason. Padres and Phillies are other teams interested. Clement wants one year and incentives.
• The Nationals like Elijah Dukes.
• Francisco Cordero has recieved a four year offer from a mystery team.
• The Cardinals, Astros, and Mets have interest in Livan Hernendez.

Offseason Agenda: Kansas City Royals

Don't even want to see the Royals record to know that they finished in last of the AL Central. Another rebuolding year in store?

Pitching
Since spending $55M on P Gil Meche a year ago, the Royals are looking again at free agent pitching. Brian Bannister and Kyle Davies are interesting prospects, while P Zach Greinke was a top prospect, but is now a spot starter/relief pitcher guy. Carlos Silva, Josh Fogg, Kris Benson, Kyle Lohse and, maybe Bartolo Colon are some free agent options. I could see the Royals adding Kris Benson, Lohse or Colon, but Silva already is at $10M plus a season, and I can't see the Royals making another Gil Meche signing. The Royals have a bunch of prospects who could take a starter job too.

The Bullpen is...well, what is it? I have no idea. Throwing a bunch of vegetables into a pot and calling it soup, is the Royals throwing a handful of prospects onto a bench and calling it a bullpen. Joel Peralta is an interesting prospect.

Infield
Something that the Royals actually have that's solid and depthful (I just made up that word). I like Alex Gordan at third. Tony Pena Jr. at short and Mark Grudzielanek at second look good. Ross Gload and Billy Butler platooning at first or something makes sense. I see no need to acquire an outstanding player here. A veteran utility man makes sense.

Outfield
The Royals seem set on adding a free agent pitfielder this offseason. Interest in Torii Hunter and Jose Guillen is genuine, but are the Royals ready to spend the money? Mark Teahen is an excellent right fielder, and David DeJesus is a cheap young option in center with excellent trade potential. I like the Royals outfield right now with a free agent addition.

Prognosis
I'm not too sure here. If the Royals can put out the money for the top players, than I see them making a decent push, but if the fail to add anyone significant, then keep your reservation near the bottem of the bucket.

Angels and Dodgers Leading for Cabrera

Sources say that the Dodgers and Angels are the front runners in the Miguel Cabrera sweepstakes. The Marlins continue to shop Cabrera, and are expected to trade him withen the next few weeks. The price will be very steep.

The Dodgers and Angels are also interested in free agent 3B Alex Rodriguez. Scott Boras probably isn't very happy about Cabrera messing up the A-Rod Market. Is it safe to say that the Angels and Dodgers will each have one of these third basemen?

From the Angels, the Marlins want Howie Kendrick, Nick Adenhart, another pitcher, and an outfielder. That is a lot. Ervin Santana or Joe Saunders could be the 'another pitcher'. Guys like Terry Evans, Nathan Haynes, or Reggie Willits could grab the Marlins interest.

The Marlins want four of Chad Billingsley, Clayton Kershaw, Andy LaRoche, James Loney, and Matt Kemp. That's pretty crazy. Even if the Dodgers only have one of the pitchers involved, Kershaw/Billingsly, LaRoche, Loney, Kemp package is crazy for one player.

Mets Close with Castro

The Mets are believed to be close to resigning catcher Ramon Castro. The Mets also plan on making an offer to Yorvit Torrealba as well. The two would make a nice combo. Torrealba has a two year $6M offer from the Rockies on the table, and if he keeps his word, he'll let the Rox match the Mets potential offer.

Yankees Offer Rivera 3/45

Hank Steinbrenner confirms the offer to Rivera. Rivera should take it now. He'd got nothing to wait for. $15M a season would make him the highest paid closer. Billy Wagner signed a contract two years ago that paid him $10.3M a season, and that was crazy talk. If Rivera wants more or a fourth year, the Yankees will likely back off. I hope Rivera won't ask for another year or more money, because I'll have to call him greedy.

Odds and Ends

Day one of MLB free agency is always fun. There'll be a lot of Odds and Ends posts in the future.

• The D'Backs don't want to spend much money on free agents, smart. Tony Clark wants two years and $4M. Some food for thought there.
• Confirming that the Yankees are after Mike Lowell and Johan Santana.
• Interesting here: the Jays could pursue Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte. Huh???
• The White Sox could be interested in Coco Crisp.

Crawford and the Cubs

The Cubs have probably been the most active team so far in this young offseason. The team has now been connected to Rays' OF Carl Crawford. Crawford isn't being shopped, but the Rays have made him available. The Cubs could have a potential outfield of Alfonso Soriano, Feliz Pie and Crawford. That looks pretty good on paper. The Cubs may hafe to part with a premium pitching prospect. Rich Hill and Carlos Marmol come to mind.

Twins Get Monroe

It's official. The Twins have traded a player to be named later to the Cubs for OF Caig Monroe. Monroe was someone who could have been non-tendered a contract, so the Cubs basically get something for nothing. Monroe on a one year $5M commitment seems less scary compared to other free agent options. Monroe could potentially be Torii Hunter's replacement.

Catching Up

I'll give a quick round up of Monday's news in one or two posts before getting back to today.

• The Cubs have traded OF Jacque Jones to the Tigers for IF Omar Infante. The Tigers will also get some cash in the deal.
• Tigers resign RP/CP Todd Jones to a one year deal worth $7M.
• The Braves are said to be the front runners for Tom Glavine.
• The Red Sox don't want to give 3B Mike Lowell a fourth year. He could end up as a Yankee next season.
• Yankees resigned C Jorge Posada to a four year deal worth $52.4M. Back in February Posada was asking three years and $30M.

Power Outage

Unfourtuneatly, my power was out for all of Monday, so I will be catching up on rumors. The day in the dark may mean that I'm unable to finish my free agent profiles series. The same thing goes for my Offseason Agenda series as well.

Free Agent Profiles - Second Basemen

This year's class of free agent second basemen:

Luis Castillo - Unfortuneatly for him, there aren't many teams in need or a 2B this offseason. Castillo has hitting ability, but demonstrated very little power last season. Only 1 HR and 35 RBI to his credit. Castillo is more of a defence and speed guy. He'll probably get a a two or three year deal worth around $6M or so a year.

Marcus Giles - Giles is coming off of a very poor year in San Diego. Giles only hit .229 with 4 HR and 39 RBI in '07. Normally a player does better in a contract year, but not in this case I guess. Giles probably will get a small one year deal worth around $2M maybe, with some incentives.

Tadahito Iguchi - Same as I said for Castillo, it's too bad that not many teams need a 2B. Iguchi hit a respectable .267 with 9 HR and 43 RBI. Maybe it's not respectable for a superstar player. Iguchi will probably get a deal that's worth around the same as Castillo's.

Mark Loretta - Loretta is starting to get up there in age, and his play is showing that. Loretta only hit .274 with 4 HR and 41 RBI, which is far from his 2004 season with San Diego when he hit .335 with 16 HR and 76 RBI. Loretta will likely end up somewhere as a utility guy making a million bucks or so.

Kaz Matsui - Kaz has started a comeback from his injury days with the Mets, and the first part of this season with the Rockies. Matsui played in 103 games last season and hit .288 with 4 HR and 37 RBI. He did steal 32 bases though. Matsui has been offered a believed two year deal worth $6M from the Rockies. He can expect to get soemthing like from another team if he leaves the Rockies.

Jose Valentin - Is Valentin's name even worth mentioning? He is only a backup who might retire this winter. He was with the Mets last season.

Offseason Agenda: Detroit Tigers

The Tigers are coming off of a second place finish in the AL Central with their 88-74 record. Overall, the Tigers could have a lot of work to do this offseason.

Pitching
The first two questions are Kenny Rogers and Todd Jones. If Rogers is back, he will compliment the rest of the rotation in Jeremy Bonderman, Justin Verlander, Nate Robertson, and whoever takes the last remaining spot. Overall, the four are a pretty good group of starters. Another year of expeirence for Verlander should help him next season. Verlander appears to be the next ace of the team.

The bullpen is kind of strong. Joel Zumaya is one of the best young arms in baseball. Unfortunatly, he missed a chunk of last season due to injury. Zumaya can throw triple digits when healthy. Todd Jones closed last season, and if he's brought back, he may set-up Zumaya. The rest of the bullpen is like most others. Fernando Rodney and Jason Grili aren't bad relievers. The rest will be determined.

Infield
This infield that looks to be set for '08 looks real good. The acquistion of Edgar Renturia from the Braves fills the biggest void, and the biggest need of the team. With Renturia at short, Carlos Guillen will move to first full-time. Placido Polanco remains one of the best unknowns at 2B. Brandon Inge isn't a bad option at third. Ivan Rodriguez will be back behind the plate again. The veteran catcher has still remained one of the finest at the position, despite his age.

Outfield
A couple excellent surprises in the outfield this past season, should lead to very few changes in the offseason. Curtis Granderson came out of a cannon and showcased his fine defence and speed in CF. Magglio Ordonez came from nowhere to when the battling title with his .342 BA. The LF spot will likely be filled from withen. Timo Perez, Clayton Maybin and Marcus Thames will likely compete for that spot. The team has no problem with depth. Gary Sheffield will be 39 next season after he celebrates his birthday next week, and will likely be the team's DH once again next season. Some better power numbers would be nice from Sheff, but 25 HR and 75 RBI is still pretty good for an old guy.

Prognosis
The Tigers have a very good team and will onece again compete for the AL Central crown. If guys like Ordonez and Granderson can play like they did last year, Renturia and help out at short, the rotation stays strong and Joel Zumaya can be an effective closer, this will be a very good team in '08.

Name Change

The Tampa Bay Devil Rays are no more. The team is now the Tampa Bay Rays. For more info, check out the Rays website.

Phillies Re-Sign J.C. Romero

The Phillies have re-signed left handed pitcher JC Romero to a three year contract worth $12M. The deal also includes an option worth $4.75M. I'm kind of unsure about this signing. Romero keeps the ball on the ground,which limits home runs, but his walk rate is terrible. Romero overall is an ok pitcher. I don't think that he's worth $4M a season, but he can be a decent reliever. I hope that the Phillies know what they are getting theirselves into with Romero.

Interest in Jason Bay

Pittsburg LF Jason Bay is said to be available this winter. So far a few teams have called about Bay. The Indians and Orioles can be added to that list. Bay didn't do as well as expected this year, but should be reay to bouce back.

The Indians should be one of the teams that are interested in Jason Bay. He's very affordable, making only $13.25M for the next two seasons, and as I mentioned in the Offseason Agenda for the Cleveland Indians, they should be looking at an outfielder this offseason.

Another team interested in Bay's servises are the Orioles. The Orioles are in kind of a rebuilding state, so added Bay kind of makes sense. If the Orioles just want to develop some players, then Bay doesn't mak sense. But if the Orioles are looking for a player or two that they can build their team around, then added Bay would make perfect sense.

Mariners listening on Sexson

Mariners first baseman Richie Sexon played horrible next season putting up a nasty last of .205/.295/.399. Most believe that he can't do any worse, so next season he will do better. He still has one year and $14M left on his contract, so the M's might have to eat some of that salary. It's been rumored that the Giants would trade 2B Ray Durham for Sexson. Durham makes $7.5M in 2008. Another team rumored to get involved are the Royals. The Royals don't have anyone with a nasty contract so the Mariners would have to eat some salary.

Torre and A-Rod Reinuting?

Today's biggest news is if that new LA Dodgers manager Joe Torre's remarks about Alex Rodriguez wearing Dodger blue next season. "It's possible. It's possible. It's possible." says Torre. It's believed that Joe Torre was brought in to lure A-Rod over. Many articles have stated that A-Rod ans Torre have been exchanging phone messages. If the Yankees offer A-Rod arbitration, which he will likely decline, and the Dodgers sign him, the Yankees will not get a first round draft pick. A-Rod and the Dodgers makes perfect sense. There's room for him to play at either 3B or SS. And most importantly, they can afford the salary that A-Rod would get.

Offseason Agenda: Cleveland Indians

The Indians are coming off of an AL Central title. Too bad the team lost to Boston in the ALCS. The Indians are a very good team with an excellent young core. Don't expect too much from them in the offseason.

Pitching
The Indians have a really nice rotation lead by 19 game winners CC Cabathia and Fausto Carmona. Both are Cy Young candidates. You can expect more of the same from the aces next season. The rest of the rotation is still pretty good. Paul Byrd and Jake Westbrook are good pitchers. Not as good as Sabathia and Carmona, but still good middle of the rotation guys. Aaron Laffey got a achance last year, and may be given a job this year. Added a veteran starter/reliever type would be a good idea.

The bullpen was lead by a 45 games saved from closer Joe Borowski. Rafael Betancourt and Aaron Fultz aren't half bad relievers. The rest of the bullpen will be decided in Spring Training. If the Betancourt/Borowski combo works again, and some depth is added, the Indians will have a very nice bullpen in '08.

Infield
Around the horn looks pretty good. Casey Blake and Jhonny Peralta look good on the left side, but the right side is a mess of options. Ryan Garko is a good 1B who can hit pretty well. Josh Barfield and Asdrubal Cabrera will probably split time or battling for the staring job at 2B. The Indians best hitter came from their catcher, Victor Martinez. V-Mart will be back next season behind the plate, and should continue his strong play. DH Travis Hafner only hit 24 HR last season but still put up 100 RBI. A few more HR's out of Hafner would help, but isn't a must. 25 HR from a DH is still pretty good.

Outfield
Led by CF Grady Sizemore, the outfield is good, but needs some cleaning up. Kenny Lofton is a FA and likely won't be back. Franklin Gutierrez is a good young RF with some potential. Jason Micheals and Ben Francisco aren't bad off the bench options, but probably should stay that way. One outfield addition would be a great help, ot two if Franklin Gutierrez isn't what he could be. One could be Kenny Lofton if he doesn;t retire. Milton Bradley is another option.

Prognosis
The Indians have a very good team. No doubt about that. Expect for them to continue to dominate next season and possibly beyond.

Contract Window For Miguel Cabrera?

Trade talks involving Miguel Cabrera are heating up. He is under contract for the 2008 and 2009 seasons. Cabrera could get a bit more interest of there was a window to talk comtract extension with Cabrera was available first. The Angels and Dodgers are leading for Cabrera. The Yankees and White Sox are also in the mix. The Marlins want Howie Kendrick from the Angels, plus whatever else that they could get. Still, a nice 48 hour window to negotiate or something would be nice for the recieving team to get.

Odds and Ends

Today's random rumors.

• Freddy Garcia is looking at a June return next year from shoulder surgery.
• The Marlins don't want to bring back Miguel Olivo next season. They have a had interest in Yorvit Torrealba. The Mets, Brewers, and Blue Jays also like Torrealba. The Marlins look serious about upgrading behind the plate and will need to spend money to do so.
• Jorge Posada seems set on testing the market. That's not good news for the Yankees.
• David DeJesus is an affordable CF option, but the Royals would like to hang on to him. If the right offer comes across, the Royals will make a trade.

More on Lowell and the Red Sox

The three year deal that was believed to be offered to Mike Lowell by the BoSox, is supposidly around $12-15M a season. All of it is garunteed, but the Red Sox don't really want to add a fourth year. It isn't a final offer from the Sox, but the Red Sox seem to be fairly firm with the offer. If the Red Sox lose Lowell, than they won'e be looking for a big name replacement. Kevin Youkilis could be moved to third, or a simple Joe Crede acquisition could be made. The Yankees, Phillies and Angels have interest in a third baseman. If Lowell can't come to an agreement, then he'll probably look at one of three teams mentioned.

Mets, Rockies and Santana

• The Mets are looking for a top pitcher. Joe Blanton, Jon Garland, A.J. Burnett, Dontrelle Willis, Jose Contreras, and even Erik Bedard and Jake Peavy could be trade options. The Mets are also interested in Carlos Silva, and have some money so signing him is an option.
• Johan Santana has been rumored to be staying with the Twins, traded, staying with the Twins, traded, and now somewhere in the middle. Trading Santana is an option. But keeping him and making a run next season is still an option. The Yankees are still very interested in Santana. It's known that the Yankees don't wan to part with Joba, Phil or Ian. If one of those names are unavailable, than the Twins may just say no.
• The Rockies are looking to make Matt Holiday a serious offer, that would cover his first two years of free agency. Four years and $60M has been thrown around. Todd Helton probably won't be traded. His current $16.6MM salary is a big issue, but Helton is finally on a winner and probably won't want to leave.The Cubs may move on from Kaz Matsui and Yorvit Torrealba if their offers are beat.

Ben Sheets Could be Moved

Brewers ace Ben Sheets could be traded this offseason. Sheets has one more year before free agency, and is owed $11M in '08. Sheets has had some injury problems already in his career, but that shouldn't turn off too many teams. The Brewers would have to debate on whether the two picks that they'd get from Sheets leaving, or what they could get by trading him. The Mets are looking for a top starter, so maybe Lastings Milledge and a pitcher or something?

Offseason Agenda: Chicago White Sox

Starting off in the AL Central is the Chicago White Sox. Their 72-90 ecord wasn't as good as expected. The White Sox are trying to suceed while rebuilding. This never seems to work for any team.

Pitching
The one thing that the White Sox seem to have too much of. Mark Beurhle is a decent ace for the club. Jon Garland and Javier Vazquez are good 2-3 guys. Both have had trade rumors surrounding them. Josh Danks and Gavin Floyd are a couple of good young pitchers. Jose Contreras may try to get back to starting again. He was awful last season. He could be used as trade bait.

The Bullpen isn't bad. Bobby Jenks is one of the game's better closers. Mike MacDougal and Matt Thornton are pretty good set-up men. The rest of the bullpen is a question. The team will probably go with a couple young players and a couple veterans. Probably one or two reliever will be picked up.

Infield
Not bad around the horn. 3BJoe Crede, SS Juan Uribe, and 1B Paul Konerko should have reserved spots. Alex Cintron, Pablo Ozuna and Joah Fields are options. A free agent could be added. Crede has had trade rumors circling around him. He's not a bad pickup for any team. Jim Thome should return as the DH next season. Thome has put up decent decent power numbers in his career.

Outfield
Not looking to good here. Jermaine Dye has the RF spot reserved, but the rest is up for grabs. Ozuna, Scott Posednik and Jerry Owens are internal options. One free agent OF should be added. Maybe a Kenny Lofton type of guy?

Prognosis
The White Sox shouldn't be a big problem in the AL Central nest season. They aren't rebuilding, but unless some prospects shine and now players play well, the White Sox are probably looking at another fourth place finish in the division.

Odds and Ends

A nice rumor filled post:

• The Nationals could sign Andruw Jones long term if the price is right. Say $13M a year for your new franchise player? Scott Boras may change his mind and look for a one year rebuilding type of thing for Jones.
• The Phillies think that Aaron Rowand will get four years and $52M. A fifth year may become the difference between signing him or not.
• Curt Schilling's incentives will come from random weigh-ins.
• The Red Sox appear to be asking a lot for Crisp. The Twins look like they're ready to give enough up.
• The Royals would like to add relief help. David Riske and Octovio Dotel are options.
• The Red Sox have made a three year offer to 3B Mike Lowell. The team backed off a bit when Lowell was asking for three years. It's believed Lowell could get five years on the open market.
• The Dodgers signed P Chan Ho Park. LAD won't be looking for any more starters now.
• The Giants have a vesting option for '09 in Omar Vizquel's deal.
• Garret Atkins appears to be staying with the Rockies. But Colorado doesn't look like they will be giving him a multiyear extension.
• After Torrealba, the Rockies were considering Jose Molina, Paul Lo Duca, Jason Kendall, and Ramon Castro for catcher. Micheal barret and Kendall appear to be the main targets.
• If the Rockies don't hear by Tuesday about their offers to Kaz Matsui, Matt Herges, LaTroy Hawkins, and Torrealba, they'll probably start looking at other options.

Miguel Cabrera Trade Rumors

Now pretty much up for auction is Marlins 3B Miguel Cabrera's potential new teams.

• Dodgers: A source says that the Dodgers are making a bug push for Cabrera. He'd be cheaper than A-Rod salary wise, but what would he cost player wise? Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, Andy LaRoche, Chad Billingsley, Clayton Kershaw, Scott Elbert, and Jonathan Meloan have been thrown around so far. Billingsley doesn't look to be available.
• Angels: The cross town rivals could consider Cabrera a consolation for Alex Rodriguez. Brandon Wood, Nick Adenhart, and Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis/Hank Conger has been thrown around. I'd make that deal. But I'm not the Angels' GM.
• Giants: Cabrera could be the new face of the franchise. But it would cost the Giants more than they would like to give up.
• Yankees: Why not? The Yanks need a 3B and have the package for him. It appears that Melky Cabrera will be traded for sure, but aren't too interested in trading Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, or Ian Kennedy. I'd say that Kennedy will be the one traded if the Yanks decide to trade on of them.
• White Sox: The White Sox would love to add Cabrera. The package would start with Josh Fields, but what else would they have?

Rangers Rumors

Today's Texas Rangers Rumors:

• The team will try again to lock up 2B Ian Kinsler long term. It would probably be a five year deal that would cover one year of free agency.
• 3B Hank Blalock and C Gerald Laird have been getting interest. It's known that the Rangers aren't interested in selling Blalock low, but could be more interested in trading Laird. The team would like to have Jarrod Saltalamacchia catching full time, so trading Laird makes sense. The Red Sox have shown interest so far.
• The Rangers have said that P Vicente Padilla is available. No point in hiding it because Padilla isn't a great pitcher, and could land a half decent prospect if soem salary is eaten.
• The Rangers are interested in Japanese players Kosuke Fukudome and Hiroki Kuroda. The team also likes Mike Lamb and Ben Broussard.

Clement Getting Interest

Rebuilding project Matt Clement is starting to get a lot of interest from around the league. Clement is 33, and has had labrum surgury in the last year. In September, he was seen topping out at 87 mph. With a little bit of work, and an oppurtunity, Clement could turn into a nice bargain.

Clement will probably be looking for atleast $2-4M garunteed, with a pile of incentives. The Padres and Royals are the first known teams to be interested.

Mets Rumors

The Mets main concern this offseason, other than A-Rod, is pitching. The team would like to add one or two starters, and some relief depth. The team has already been linked to Tom Glavine, Huroki Kuoda and Carlos Silva. Byung-Hyun Kim, Kenny Rogers, and Kyle Lohse are other options that are Boras clients. AJ Burnett is another option, if the Blue Jays decide to make him available.

Tigers Rumors: Rogers and Silva

Scott Boras is probably one of the only people that would be inhappy with SP Kenny Rogers saying that it would either be Detroit or retirement. It's not that Boras is against Rogers signing to Detroit, it's just that he wants fair market value for Rogers. Probably in the Schilling and Maddux range of about $10M. The Mariners and Rangers could get involved on Rogers if the Tagers say no thanks.

The Tigers also have shown interest in FA SP Carlos Siva. Silva will get atleast a four year $40M deal. It hasn't been said if the Tigers have the money for both.

The other concern for the Tigers is relief pitching. Joel Zumaya is an excellent young pitcher, but has already had a ton of health problems. The Tigers have said that they still would like to bring todd Jones back. Expect one or two low level signings or trades from the Tigers.

Yankees Interested in Tejada

The Orioles could secide to trade one or both of Miguel Tejada and Melvin Mora. Both can play 3B, and both could fit the Yankees needs. Tejada has a no trade clause, and isn't crazy about moving to third. If the O's can convince him to switch over, than what could they get for Tejada? It would probably start with one of Robinson Cano and Melky Cabrera. Maybe Kyle Farnsworth would have to be added in as well. The Yankees would have to convince the O's to trade Tejada or Mora to a divisoin rival.

Romero Close with Phillies

The Phillies are rumored to be close to signing lefty reliever JC Romero. The deal is believed to be two years and worth around $6M. $3M a season isn't bad for a half decent reliever. I wouldn't want to see the Phillies giving Romero three years. Romero has had some health roblems in the past, but that doesn't seem to make the Phillies reconsider.

The Phillies still should be looking at a veteran starter who could be a reliever or spot starter if necessary. It's believed that Adam Eaton will not need surgery on his shoulder. It still wouldn't be a bad idea to have an extra for Cole Hamels, Brett Myers, Jamie Moyer, Kyle Kendrick, and Eaton. Cole Hamels I have faith in, but will Jamie Moyer and Brett Myers do anything?

Free Agent Profiles - First Basemen

This year;s free agent first basemen,

Sean Casey - Casey has had an up and down career. The injuries have been the main root of that problem. Casey played a good 143 healthy games, and hit .296 with 4 HR and 54 RBI. The power numbers aren't very good, but he's 34 now, and has had some bad injuries, so if he can DH somewhere and stay healthy, he'll be an ok one year $6M or so comitment.

Tony Clark - The 36 year old Clark is coming off of an ok season, on a very good Arizona team last season. Clark is an ok 1B who'll play 3B once in a while. The D-Backs haven't made it clear yet if he'll be back, but he'll end up somewhere for one year and a couple million bucks.

Darin Erstad - Erstad is one of those players whose careers have taken a step back because of injuries. Erstad is a pretty good 1B/CF option when he's healthy. He'll probably get a one year deal with some incentives from a team with an available DH spot. Devil Rays or Royals?

Ryan Klesko - Klesko will likely be headed to a team outside the SF area. Klesko is a decen utility option for a team that needs someone like him. He eplayed 116 games last season, and for the most part was healthy.

Mike Lamb - Lamb is probably the best free agent option at 1B. Lamb is another one of those 1B/3B guys, who get injured fairly easily. Lamb should likely get a two year deal worth around $5M or so a year.

Doug Mientkiewicz - Mientkiewicz is probably the best defensive free agent 1B out there. Mientkiewicz will give you a usefull late inning defensive replacement. He should get one of those one year $2M or so deals with games played incentives.

Offseason Agenda: Tampa Bay Devil Rays

The last of the AL East. Literally. Their 66-96 recod was among the worst in the league. The D-Rays have a nice bunch of young players, and some of the better young players, but can't piece together much more than a last place finish.

Pitching
The Devil Rays have some nice young pitchers in Scott Kazmir and James Shields. The two could become one of the better 1-2 punches to start a rotation if they are kept, and have gained a couple more seasons of experience. Edwin Jackson was once a solid prospect, but isn't much more than a #5 starter on most teams. Andy Sonnanstine and JP Howell are good young pitchers. I don't mind this pitching staff, if the D-Rays can bring in a veteran starter to help mentor the young players.

This is an interesting bullpen. CP Al Reyes probably should have been traded at the past trading deadline, but none the less he's a pretty good closer. The rest of the bullpen is in turmoil. A slew of young pitchers and crappy veterans will probably make up this team's bullpen next season.

Infield
Led by comeback player of the year 1B Carlos Pena, the Devil Rays have an interesting infield. Pena is a solid first baseman, but has now transformed into a star almost overnight, or over the past season. Akinori Iwamura was picked up after he was posted by his Japan League team, and battled an injury last year. Iwamura should improve for next year. Brandon Harris and Josh Wilson could fill out the middle infield next year. Dioner Navarro is a good young catcher, but like half of this team, needs a mentor.

Outfield
An oufield full of trade candidates. LF Carl Crawford, who's one of the game's fastest and most exciting players, has had some rumors circling around him in the last little while. CF/DH Rocco Baldelli is more likely to be traded. Baldelli has been battling injuries. BJ Upton is a natural IF but isn't a bad OF. Delmon Young is a good RF prospect, and has a nice future ahead of him. Elijah Dukes is an interesting guy because of his crime filled past, but has some talent. It's too bad how he messed his career up.

Prognosis
The Devil Rays are still rebuilding and shouldn't look to be spending loads of money on old veteran players. Anithe fourth or fifth place finish is in line, unless, the team's prospects come to life and have amazing years.

GM Meetings Rumors

A few rumors from this week's GM meetings:

• The Marlins have made 3B Miguel Cabrera officially available. The Marlins have talked with potential trade candidates about what they'd want in return. It would have to be a really nice package. They want two-three top flight prospects, and atleast one of them a blue chipper. The Red Sox, Yankees, Angels, Dodgers and Giants will be the main contenders. Cabrera still has two full seasons before free agency.
• Hank Blalock could be available. The Dodgers and Red Sox have been to sais to have been interested in the Rangers third basemen.
• Mariano Rivera has recieved a three year $39M offer from the Yankees. He hasn't responded to the offer yet. He'll probably wait a little while before signing because he is the best free agent closer.
• The Rangers don't have much if any interest in Barry Bonds

Braves Rumors

Hmmm, not many AL rumors today...

• The Braves have expessed interest in added free agent P Tom Glavine to their rotation for 2008. So far, the Nationals, Cardinals, Astros, and possibly the Mets would like him as well.


• The Braves will probably looking to acquire a CF this offseason. Don't expect Torii Hunter, Aaron Rowand, or Mike Cameron because of their salary and contract demands. David DeJesus and Coco Crsp are afordable options via the trade route.


• The Braves will likely pass on Todd Jones, unless he will give the team a sizeable home town discount.


• The Braves have declined Octovio Dotel's $5.5M option, but could still persue him. Dotel will probably look for more money and to close next year.

A-Rod and Arbitration?

The Yankees can offer 3B Alex Rodriguez arbitration this winter, but don't expect A-Rod to take it. It's really a no-brainer for the Yankees because their are a couple draft picks involved. I doubt A-Rod would want a one year deal worth $30-40M in arbitration, because he could do horrible in 2008, or his MVP 2007 season stats could slip, and so would his next contract.

The Angels have said that they would like to have A-od, and they probably would have the money. The Yankees wouldn;t mind A-Rod going to the Angels because their 1st round pick isn't protected, but pobably wouldn't want the team across town the Dodgers to get A-Rod, because their pick is protected.

Rockies Rumors

A few Rockies rumors for today:

• The Rockies have made an offer to 2B Kaz Matsui. Two years and around $6M total, has been said.
• Also, an offer has been put on C Yorvit Torrealba. The same two years as Matsui, and around the same price.
• Scott Boras client Matt Holliday is still under contract untill after the 2009 season, but he will probably get pricey in arbitration. The Rockies would like to sign him longer term, but Boras is probably telling Holliday to take the arbitration and become a free agent after 2009. If he keeps on getting better, than he could be easily looking at $15M or more a season after the 2009 season.

Kuroda Rumors

Now that Schilling is no longer a free agent, there isn;t a true number one starter availabe via free agency. Huroki Kuroda could be one of the better ones though. The Mariners, Rangers and Cubs have shown interest in Kuroda so far. Kuroda has said that he would prefer to player on the west coast, but hasn't said anything else. The Dodgers could get invloved too. This list should start to grow pretty fast in the coming weeks. Kuroda could get over $8M, and three or four years.

Uribe Re-Signs

The White Sox resigned SS Juan Uribe to a one year deal worth $4.5M. By declining Uribe's club option for $5.5M, the White Sox save $1M. Not coincidentally, the White Sox have lost interest in Miguel Tejada. Uribe isn't a bad shortstop, but for $4.5M you can't go that wrong. Allthough the Mariners did with $8.35M and Jeff Weaver...

The Rocket Sort of Calls it Quits

Roger Clemens is back to his regular self. Kind of calling it quits, but leaving himself open to returning. The usual teams will be interested. The Yankees, Astros and Red Sox. Back to the Rocket and his new job. He's now a consultant with the Astros. Even when the Rocket does retire, the Astros pitching staff will get a nice boost.

Offseason Agenda: Baltimore Orioles

Next up in the series are the Orioles. Their 69-93 record was good enough for fourth place in the AL East. Baltimore needs a lot of work if it wants to get back to competitive. Next season will be a rebuilding year.

Infield
Looks pretty good around the horn. Melvin Mora, Miguel Tejada, Brian Roberts, and Kevin Millar form left to right looks good on paper. Trade speculation surrounding all of them could be true as the team needs to start over. Not any overwhelming prospects in the infield. Otherwise, there isn't anything to do to improve the infield.

Outfield
Ughhhhh. Not nice. A nice RF prospect in Nick Markakis, but Jay Gibbons in LF and Jay Payton in CF isn't very good. They'd need an upgrade at two of the three positions. Put both positions that need upgrading could have the current players traded. Other than Markakis, no prospects that stick out at all.

Pitching
The one thing that the O's do have is an ok pitching staff. Erik Bedard is the ace of the club, and is one of the rising stars in the league. Rumors about Bedard being trading are floating around. Jeremy Githrie and Daniel Cabrera aren't bad pitchers on paper, but haven't done much on the field. It could be that the poor everything behind him and the lineup has hurt him. Adam Loewen, a BC boy is coming off of shoulder surgery, but is still a nice looking prospect. The last part of the rotation is up for grabs. Either an acquisition or one of Brian Burres/Garrett Olson/Hayden Penn could fill the void.

The bullpen is ok. No true closer, but Jamie Walker or Chad Bradford could do it. The bullpen will probably be filled with crappy ceterans or young pitchers. Chis Ray isn't a bad pitcher who has some potential. Othewise it's a mess I don't want to clean up.

Prognosis
Not very good. Another poor finish near the bottem. This team needs to start over again.

Vizquel Close With Giants

Veteran SS Omar Vizquel is close to resigning with the Giants one a one year deal worth around $5M. The Whote Sox have had interest. Why the Giants want to pay unneccessary money towards veteran players. They need to rebuild.

Odds and Ends

A few intersting details from today:

• The D-Backs could try shopping Jose Valverde. He is at very high value right now, and will only cost them more money.
• The A's may decide to shop pitchers Dan Haren and Joe Blanton. The Mets would be the most interested team.
• The Cubs would like to re-sign Kerry Wood and give him the closer job, moving Ryan Dempster into the rotation.
• The Cubs are also looking into OF's Kosuke Fukudome, Coco Crisp, Raul Ibanez and Carl Cawford.
• The Phillies won't focus on 3B, but rather put money towards pitching. They would like to add JC Romero. Maybe trying to trade for Jon Garland or Jose Contreras?
• Update on Schilling's deal, one year and only $8M garunteed with $2M in incentives. It would've made more sense to exercise is player option for $13M.

Riccardi Willing to listen on Burnett

Blue Jays GM JP Riccardi has said a few interesting things to the media over the past baseball season. From lying to the public about BJ Ryan's injury status to questioning AJ Burnett's manliness. Notice how both were signed in the same offseason two years ago.

Today Riccardi said that if he was blown away by an offer, then he will make the trade. Burnett can opt out after this season and become a free agent. He will make $12M this season so he is affordable. I could see a lot of teams talking to Riccardi. Burnett has a no trade clause for 15 teams.

Offseason Agenda: New York Yankees

The Bronx Bombers have a few things to do this offseason. Most importantly would be dealing with Alex Rodriguez and they have said that he probably won't be back. Then C Jorge Posada and CP Mariano Rivera are free agents. The Yankees would like to bring both back but we'll see. The rest is pretty much like most teams. Maybe a starter, a reliever and some depth. Overall the 2007 season was only ok. A 94-68 record was good for the AL Wild Card, but lost in the first round to the Angels. That meant good-bye to Joe Toree.

Pitching
The Yankees have some of the best young pitching prospects in baseball. Phil Hughes, Joba Chamberlain and Ian Kennedy are on a lot of team's wishlists. Yankees could get some nice return. Wang and Mussina are the only real locks in the rotation for next season. One of the three prospects will probably start, maybe two if Pettitte isn't brought back. I don't like the idea of three rookies in a rotation but who am I to tell the Yanks what to do. Pettitte declined his option, so the Yankees will talk with him, but the Yankees will still be looking for a veteran pitcher. Or is a Johan Santana trade in the works?

The bullpen was ok last season. If Rivera isn't back next season, than Joba Chamberlain might get a shot. Otherwise the bullpen will look ok. Still, the Yankees will look to add an arm or two in the offseason.

Infield
No A-Rod wouldn't make a signifacint change. Jeter and Cano will man SS and 2B, unless one of them moves to third, the Yankees will look for a 3B. Wilson Betemit is an option for first or third. Yankees will probably be looking for a corner infielder. Maybe a Joe Crede trade? Free Agent options would include: Ryan Klesko, Mike Lamb, Pedro Feliz, and Mike Lowell. Jason Giambi is still under contract and could be used at 1B or DH.

Outfield
The Yankees outfield doesn't look to bad. Matsui, Damon, and Abreu should have the starting spots, and will rotate in Melky Cabrera. The DH spot is currently available. Trading one of the outfielders is an option, but the rotation strategy makes sense to me, and will keep the outfielders fresh. Otherwise the outfield looks fine.

Prognosis
The Yankees will be a threat because they are the Yankees. They have the money to bring in whoever they choose. I think that the BoSox will do better than the Yankees, but unless the Jays figure it out than the Yankees should have a good chance in 2008.

Royals and FA OF's

The Royals are looking for an ourfielder as a free agent. KC is looking at Jose Guillen, Geoff Jenkins, and Torii Hunter. Hunter will probably cost too much. But Jenkins and Guillen could be affordable. Jenkins will probably be looking for a one year deal worth around $6M, and Guillen will be looking for three years and atleast $30M. The Royals could also be looking at Sammy Sosa. The ROyals have an OF and DH spot open, so why not?

Fukudome Gets Offers From Chunichi Dragons

RF Kosuke Fukudome could stay in Japan for next year. He hasn't said that he plans to play in the MLB in 2008. Reports indicate he has recievd two offers from his old team the Chunichi Dragons, a one year deal, and a multiyear deal. Fukudome has said that he would like an offer from an MLB club to compare. So don't expect a decision to be made for atleast another couple of weeks. If Fukudome remains in Japan, Jose Guillen would probably become the best RF on the market, so it would be a plaus for Guillen if Fukudome stays in Japan.

Schilling Close?

A report says that FA P Curt Schilling is close to resigning with the Boston Red Sox. It would likely be an incentive laden one year deal. The Astros, D-Backs and Phillies have contacted Schilling so far.

The Red Sox look to have a 2008 rotation that would look like Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Curt Schilling, Clay Buchholz, and Jon Lester. Not bad, maybe a step up from last year if Lester and Buchholz pitch half decent.

Padres Sign Greg Maddux

The Padres decided to keep Mad Dog around for another season. One year and $10M. Not terrible, but if Maddux can be reasonably good this year, than the Padres will get their money's worth. Maddux is still a good starter, and in pitcher friendly Petco Park, any pitcher should do ok.

Andy Pettitte Declines his Option

NY Yankees SP Andy Pettitte has declined his $16M player option for 2008. But Pettitte doesn't want to test free agency. He still stands on the Yankees or retirement. By declining his option, he frees up a roster spot for the Yankees. The Yankees probably won't want to wait for three months to hear what Pettitte's plans are. The Yankees will probably give Pettitte some kind of a secret deadline for Pettitte to make a decision. A Rotation of Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina, Phil Hughes, Joba Chamberlain, and Ian Kennedy wouldn't be the end of the world. Hey, it would be better than some of the other rotations out there now! I don't like the idea of having three rookies in the rotation, but if they can prove they can compete than why not? The Yankees will bring back Pettitte if he wants to come back I'd think. If not, then they will probably look for a veteran starter to add depth.

Odds and Ends

A few interesting piecces of info for Monday:

• The Cubs could get serious about Japanese players Hiroki Kuroda and Kosuke Fukudome.
• The White Sox could take a look at the trade route and acquire somebody like Pat Burrel or Rafeal Furcal.
• Cory Patterson could be somebody that the Nationals could use for their CF job if they can't get a big name FA.
• The Twins could have interest in trading for a CF, if they don't get Torii Hunter back. Coco Crisp and Rocco Baldeli are options via trade.
• FA C Mike Lieberthal could be catching with the Blue Jays next season.
• St. Louis 3B Scott Rolen could be open to waiving his no trade clause, but his three years and $36M still on his contract could be a problem.

Young Guns Available

Three of the young stars in baseball today could be dealt this winter. The Marlins are shopping 3B Miguel Cabrera. Cabrera is one of the best young hitters in the game right now, and could get an eight figure salary for next season, which is something the Marlins will hope to avoid. If Cabrera is traded, than Dontrelle Willis is likely to stay where he is. Back to the young guys. The Orioles have said that they will listen to offers for P Erik Bedard. Bedard has emerged as one of the game's young stud pitchers, and should take a ransom of a deal to get him out of Baltaimore. Bedard could be looking for a deal that would pay him atleast $16M annually, which he could get on the open market. The O's aren't fond of long term deals, but could make an exception for him, if he will stay, and they don't rob one of the other 29 teams in the league. Devil Rays P Scott Kazmir could be available too. Kazmir is an excellent young lefty and is still under contract for another three seasons. The Yankees could consider Kazmir if they aren't able to get Johan Santana. Starting with a Phil Hughes type pitching prospect, and probably another prospect and a now player. That would mean the D-Rays trading in their own division which, if the price is right they could do. Almost every team would be interested in all three.