king x riece
Banned
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Son , let that go it's not happening
Official MLB Offseason Post: Michael Young asks for a trade.
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by proshares,
- Start date
Originally Posted by Newbs24
Originally Posted by Proshares
They have a mainstay at first, a bunch of guys who DH already, a catcher and they're trying to bring back Magglio cheap as well. I don't get it. Detroit would have been wayyyyy better going after Werth. Their OF is not all that strong. To sign a 32 who will probably catch 65 games a year for the next couple and then need to be your DH to that kinda money...eh.
They have no one around Miggy that produces. That is why they got him. He and Avil will platoon at C and he will be there DH. I think it is a good signing to get another bat. I would be stunned if the Tigers offered Werth a big contract. They will go after Crawford pretty hard IMO.
Like I said, they have a couple dudes there that DH as well under contract and they're still intent on bringing back Mags who would need to DH a good amount too, no? I was saying that before they got Victor that they should have gone after Werth. Helps their OF and the lineup more to their needs IMO. Do they have the cash to go after Crawford now? I think he winds up in Anaheim when all is said and done.
Originally Posted by Newbs24
Originally Posted by Proshares
They have a mainstay at first, a bunch of guys who DH already, a catcher and they're trying to bring back Magglio cheap as well. I don't get it. Detroit would have been wayyyyy better going after Werth. Their OF is not all that strong. To sign a 32 who will probably catch 65 games a year for the next couple and then need to be your DH to that kinda money...eh.
They have no one around Miggy that produces. That is why they got him. He and Avil will platoon at C and he will be there DH. I think it is a good signing to get another bat. I would be stunned if the Tigers offered Werth a big contract. They will go after Crawford pretty hard IMO.
Like I said, they have a couple dudes there that DH as well under contract and they're still intent on bringing back Mags who would need to DH a good amount too, no? I was saying that before they got Victor that they should have gone after Werth. Helps their OF and the lineup more to their needs IMO. Do they have the cash to go after Crawford now? I think he winds up in Anaheim when all is said and done.
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Do you know how loaded the Rangers farm system is, Greinke is going to get traded sooner than later?Originally Posted by KING x RIECE
Son , let that go it's not happening
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- Feb 21, 2005
Do you know how loaded the Rangers farm system is, Greinke is going to get traded sooner than later?Originally Posted by KING x RIECE
Son , let that go it's not happening
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- Nov 18, 2007
Been saying this for three seasons. I have given up hope. Its not happening anytime soon.
- 28,059
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- Nov 18, 2007
Been saying this for three seasons. I have given up hope. Its not happening anytime soon.
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How is all that going to happen when the Indians are winning the division in 2012?
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How is all that going to happen when the Indians are winning the division in 2012?
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He doesn't know anything about anything. Let him be.Originally Posted by airmaxpenny1
Do you know how loaded the Rangers farm system is, Greinke is going to get traded sooner than later?Originally Posted by KING x RIECE
Son , let that go it's not happening
And the Royals aren't going to be ready to compete this year. Too many holes and a lot of their kids still need time. Their time is coming, but they're not ready yet.
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He doesn't know anything about anything. Let him be.Originally Posted by airmaxpenny1
Do you know how loaded the Rangers farm system is, Greinke is going to get traded sooner than later?Originally Posted by KING x RIECE
Son , let that go it's not happening
And the Royals aren't going to be ready to compete this year. Too many holes and a lot of their kids still need time. Their time is coming, but they're not ready yet.
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Yankees don't owe those two players anything, they paid them more than enough.
Keep Mo, ditch Jeter.
Keep Mo, ditch Jeter.
- 21,951
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- Jan 12, 2003
Yankees don't owe those two players anything, they paid them more than enough.
Keep Mo, ditch Jeter.
Keep Mo, ditch Jeter.
The cap on Trevor Hoffman's Hall of Fame plaque will bear the logo of the San Diego Padres, regardless of what happens in the years ahead. Hoffman has pitched 18 years in the majors and in sixteen of those he played in a Padres uniform, so his ugly split with the team after the 2008 season will never change the fact that we will always think of Hoffman as a Padre.
Getty ImagesBell will almost surely be elsewhere by the trade deadline.
And it's possible that Hoffman could repair his relationship with the Padres; in fact, some folks within baseball are convinced that Hoffman will return to San Diego for next season. "It fits," said one official. "It makes all the sense in the world. He goes back and finishes his career as a Padre."
The question is whether it will be as a closer or a set-up man. The Padres' Heath Bell was arguably the best closer in the National League last season, racking up 47 saves, posting a 1.93 ERA. But Bell will be eligible for free agency after next season, at a time when the San Diego payroll is the lowest in the major leagues, and the expectation among general managers is that the Padres will trade Bell between now and the July 31 trade deadline, in an effort to recoup his value.
Hoffman got off to a terrible start for the Brewers last season and lost his job as the Milwaukee closer. But he pitched better in the second half, posting a 2.66 ERA and holding opposing hitters to a .208 batting average, and achieved his 600th career save. He is open to the idea of another season.
Whenever Bell is traded, the Padres could install Hoffman as the closer, if they signed him, and if Hoffman -- who is 43 years old -- had another poor year, San Diego has other alternatives, with Luke Gregerson and Mike Adams.
Jeff Moorad, the Padres' owner, is known to be very cognizant of public relations, of fostering good feelings. And patching the team's relationship with Hoffman, by bringing him back, could be a good thing for the franchise, in the big picture.
Hoffman left the Brewers with class, granting them a gift as he walked away.
[h3]Around the league[/h3]
• Cuba might lift restrictions on its players -- but still won't let them sign in the big leagues, as Uziel Gomez and Jorge Embro writes.
Victor Martinez, a rival executive mused over their roster. "It's going to be a pain in the (rear) to play them," he said. "They've got a lot of power arms -- in their bullpen, in their rotation. They may have overpaid to get [Joaquin] Benoit, but look at the arms they've got. Martinez gives them more depth in their lineup, to support [Miguel] Cabrera. That's a dangerous team."
Without a doubt. Justin Verlander is one of the 10 best pitchers in the majors, Rick Porcello learned how to make adjustments in his short stint in the minors last summer and was a different pitcher in the second half, and Max Scherzer had a good year. Jim Leyland's bullpen should be stacked. The only question is whether GM Dave Dombrowski can rebuild the lineup around Cabrera, and he's got a lot of cash to play with. They continue to be viewed as serious players in the bidding for outfielders, as well.
• The Yankees have made it clear that they intend to pay Derek Jeter more than what they perceive his value to be as a player on the open market, and not what his brand is worth, and as some executives and agents noted yesterday, Jeter doesn't appear to have a lot of leverage in his situation. "He needs the Yankees more than the Yankees need him," said one NL official, "because he's not an elite player anymore."
Jeter's leverage has to be built on interest from other clubs. The Giants haven't filled their shortstop hole, and neither have the Cincinnati Reds.
But is Jeter willing to walk away from his lifelong dream of being the shortstop of the Yankees? Would anybody actually offer him more than the $15 million salary that the Yankees are willing to pay him?
Brian Cashman is open in inviting Jeter to solicit other offers, to assess his own market value for himself. Hank Steinbrenner says the Yankees have made players very, very rich.
Only Hal Steinbrenner can fix this mess, writes Mike Lupica.
[h3]Arbitration[/h3]
• The Twins offered arbitration to three players, as Joe Christensen writes.
• As expected, the Phillies offered Jayson Werth arbitration.
• The White Sox offered arbitration to two players, but not to A.J. Pierzynski, as Joe Cowley writes.
• The Red Sox did not offer Jason Varitek arbitration, but they'd like to keep him.
• The Rays set themselves up to get a lot of draft picks.
• The D-Backs offered arbitration to two players.
• The Padres offered arbitration to three guys, writes Bill Center.
[h3]Notables[/h3]
• Josh Hamilton won the AL MVP Award, as expected. From Katie Sharp of ESPN Stats & Information: Hamilton is the fifth American League player in the last 80 seasons with a batting average of .350 or better, at least 30 home runs, 100 RBI and 40 doubles. The list:
[h4]Buster's New Book[/h4]
Buster Olney is the author of the book "recipient[/color] of the Jimmy V Award at the ESPYS.
"Surprising and unforgettable." - Mike Krzyzewski
"Olney knows the beating heart of life and the pulse of humanity that makes sports matter." - George F. Will
"A true inspiration." - Pat Summitt
2010 Josh Hamilton
1996 Alex Rodriguez
1986 Don Mattingly
1941 Joe DiMaggio
1934 Lou Gehrig
Miguel Cabrera finished second, but it has been a great year for him, as Drew Sharp writes.
Hamilton deserves a long-term deal, but the price must be right, writes Evan Grant.
• Terry Collins was introduced as the Mets' manager, and he says they can win next season, as Andy Martino writes. Collins will restore accountability and professionalism to the Mets, writes John Harper.
Collins vows that he's not that scary, writes Mike Vaccaro. Time will tell on whether Collins has changed, writes Art Stapleton.
[h3]The McCourts[/h3]
An arbitrator presented a possible solution to Frank and Jamie McCourt, writes Bill Shaikin and Carla Hall. [h3]Moves, deals and decisions[/h3]
1. Aubrey Huff cashed in on his championship season, landing a two-year deal with the Giants, and now San Francisco's priority is landing a shortstop, as Henry Schulman writes. The rest of the Giants' offseason could prove tortuous, writes Gary Peterson.
2. Boston is now committed to Jarrod Saltalamacchia as their everyday catcher, writes Peter Abraham. The Red Sox fans are looking for answers this Thanksgiving, writes Dan Shaughnessy.
3. Andy Pettitte will likely come back next season, writes Ken Davidoff.
4. Willie Randolph has been hired as the Orioles' bench coach.
5. Thad Bosley was hired as the Rangers' hitting coach.
6. More than ever, it looks like Jorge De La Rosa has thrown his last pitch for the Rockies, writes Jim Armstrong, and the Rockies may pursue Jon Garland.
[h3]Other stuff[/h3]
• Scott Boras says he did everything on the up and up.
• Alex Anthopoulos needs to use his time wisely, writes Dave Perkins, as he rebuilds the Blue Jays.
• Mark Simon writes about how Terry Collins handled a National League offense.
• Reid Laymance addresses the question: Should writers vote for awards?
Remember, with the MVP, the Cy Young, Manager of the Year and Rookie of the Year awards, those are awards bestowed by the writers' association; these are their awards to dole out. It's really no different than Time magazine picking its Man of the Year, or Sports Illustrated picking Sportsman of the Year. But the writers' awards are different than the Hall of Fame balloting, which is controlled by the Hall itself; this is why I don't think writers should be involved in that process.
And today will be better than yesterday.
http://[h3][/h3][h3]De La Rosa and Rockies parting ways?[/h3]
9:54AM ET
[h5]Jorge De La Rosa | Rockies | Interested: Rockies, Yankees?, Pirates? [/h5]
With each passing day, it looks more and more like Jorge De La Rosa is on his way out of Colorado.
The latest indication came Tuesday when the Rockies offered De La Rosa salary arbitration, assuring themselves of two draft picks if De La Rosa, a Type A free agent, signs with another club.
Jim Armstrong of the Denver Post reports Wednesday the Rockies remain adamant about sticking to a three-year deal for De La Rosa. De La Rosa's agent, Bobby Barad, continues talking to other teams, some of which are ready to commit at least four years. The list includes the Orioles, Nationals, Pirates, Yankees and Rangers.
The Rockies are making contingency plans for De La Rosa's departure and Armstrong says one player they may pursue is free agent Jon Garland, who won 14 games for the Padres last seasons. Other possibilities include free agents Carl Pavano and Javier Vazquez as well as Gavin Floyd, who could be available in a trade with the White Sox.
Troy Renck of the Denver Post reported last week the Rockies will bow out if the offer is for four years or more.
Renck added Monday that a higher priority for the Rockies should be to acquire a No. 5 hitter such as http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?playerId=28841Justin Upton.
- Doug Mittler
[h5]Keith Law[/h5]
The Book on De La Rosa
http://[h3]Pettitte leaning toward returning[/h3]
9:29AM ET
[h5]Andy Pettitte | Yankees [/h5]
An offseason ritual for New York Yankees fans in recent years is the mulling of retirement by veteran pitcher Andy Pettitte.
This winter, an answer could come sooner than later. Pettitte is leaning toward returning to the Yankees in 2011 and has the support of his family in doing so, reports Newsday?s Ken Davidoff.
Davidoff says Pettitte has not yet notified the Yankees of his decision, but could do so after Thanksgiving. Pettitte went 11-3 with a 3.28 ERA in 21 starts this season. He missed two months with a left groin strain and pitched well in two postseason starts despite back problems.
Starting pitching is a huge concern for the Yankees, who are making a strong pitch for free agent Cliff Lee. Whether Lee lands in the Bronx or not, Pettitte would likely find a place in the rotation for around the same $11.75 million he made in 2010.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Varitek's leverage[/h3]
9:11AM ET
[h5]Jason Varitek | Red Sox [/h5]
The Boston Red Sox allowed Tuesday's deadline to pass without offering arbitration to Jason Varitek, even if the veteran catcher saw his leverage rise with the departure of Victor Martinez to the Detroit Tigers.
Varitek may have accepted an offer, in which case he would've been signed next season at a modest raise from his $3 million salary.
At this stage, the Red Sox appear ready to move forward with Jarrod Saltalamacchia as the starter, but is relative lack of experience will make Varitek more valuable, even if he will turn 39 in April and is coming off a season in which he broke a bone in his right foot.
The Red Sox still could test the waters on a deal for another free agent such as Miguel Olivo, Yorvit Torrealba or Bengie Molina.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Could Hoffman return to SD?[/h3]
8:52AM ET
[h5]Trevor Hoffman | Brewers [/h5]
Trevor Hoffman apparently gave the Milwaukee Brewers a going-away present Tuesday. Could his next stop be a return to San Diego?
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reported Tuesday night that the Brewers have offered Hoffman arbitration, a surprising move by all accounts. The word is Hoffman agreed to decline so the Brewers can pick up a draft pick is he signs with another club, otherwise the Brewers could be on the hook for at least $6 million.
While there is talk that the future Hall of Famer might retire, ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney says some folks within baseball are convinced that Hoffman will return to San Diego for next season. "It fits," said one official. "It makes all the sense in the world. He goes back and finishes his career as a Padre."
The question is whether it will be as a closer or a set-up man. The Padres? Heath Bell was arguably the best closer in the National League last season, racking up 47 saves, posting a 1.93 ERA. But Bell will be eligible for free agency after next season, at a time when the San Diego payroll is the lowest in the major leagues, and the expectation among general managers is that the Padres will trade Bell between now and the July 31 trade deadline, in an effort to recoup his value. At that point, Hoffman could be the closer.
As for other possible destinations, we mentioned last week that Hoffman was keeping an eye on the closer situation in Arizona,.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Did Lee get a $140M offer?[/h3]
8:24AM ET
[h5]Cliff Lee | Rangers [/h5]
Exactly how expensive will it be to land http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?playerId=5353Cliff Lee? There are conflicting reports as to whether that figure is around $140 million.
Tim Brown of Yahoo! Sports reported late Monday night that the Yankees have offered Lee six years and $140 million, but Lee is requesting seven seasons. Mark Feinsand of the NY Daily News counters Wednesday that such an offer had not been made, with one of his sources adding that the Bombers had not made any official offers to Lee at all.
Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe wrote Sunday that "Word is the Yankees are in the $115 million-$120 million range for five years, while the Rangers are determined to match whatever it gets up to. The Nationals are another team aggressive in this hunt."
Rangers president Nolan Ryan said last week he believed that his club would be outbid for Lee, so Cafardo's comments would be a change of course.
Up until now, any talk of a Lee contract has been compared to the seven-year, $161 million deal the Yankees gave to http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?playerId=4553CC Sabathia a few years ago. Sabathia earns $23 million per season, but has a longer deal than Lee is expected to get.
Jon Heyman of SI.com reports the Rangers are believed willing to go at least four years for Lee, but it seems uncertain whether they'd go past that even for a pitcher who has no history of arm trouble. Heyman adds that the Yankees will definitely be willing to go at least five, making them the favorite.
At this stage, look for Lee to enjoy his Thanksgiving at home and for talks to heat up at the winter meetings next month in Florida.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Flexibility a key to Huff deal[/h3]
8:22AM ET
[h5]Aubrey Huff | Giants [/h5]
Most speculation has had San Francisco actively working to keep Aubrey Huff by the bay, and the Giants Tuesday with a two-year deal worth a minimum of $22 million.
The question now is whether GM Brian Sabean was in an overly charitable mood this holiday season regarding Huff, who surprised many with a .290 batting average, 26 HRs and a .385 OBP for the Giants in 2009.
At the very least, Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle says Huff's ability to play first base or the outfield gives Sabean significant flexibility, which is pivotal since two potential everyday players for 2011, Pablo Sandoval and Mark DeRosa, will remain question marks until spring training.
If Sabean acquires a position player, he knows Huff can easily take over the open slot. Our Keith Law, however, is far from thrilled with the signing:
- Doug Mittler
[h5]Keith Law[/h5]
Really, Brian Sabean?
http://[h3]Mets may bring back Mookie[/h3]
8:00AM ET
[h5]New York Mets [/h5]
The New York Mets passed on Wally Backman when choosing a manager, but may add at least one member of their 1986 World Series championship team to their coaching staff.
Andy Martino of the NY Daily News reports that the Mets will definitely consider Mookie Wilson for a coaching position under Terry Collins. Collins said he is committed to diversity in his staff, which would seem to help Wilson's chances.
Wilson, a Met from 1980-1989, coached first for the team from 1997-2002.
The Mets announced Tuesday that Howard Johnson will not return as hitting coach. Triple-A manager Ken Oberkfell is a good possibility.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Stark: Vazquez to sign in Miami?[/h3]
7:52AM ET
[h5]Javier Vazquez | Yankees [/h5]
Debunking reports that surfaced earlier this month suggesting that Javier Vazquez will seek a deal similar to that of Ted Lilly's 3-year, $33 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, ESPN.com's Jayson Stark reports that Vazquez wants a one-year contract, and that he may be headed for Florida.
A source tells Stark that the Marlins pursuit of Vazquez is hot and a deal could be completed soon, though not likely until after Thanksgiving. Stark also adds that other clubs with interest in Vazquez are now pessimistic about their chances to acquire the 34-year-old.
Vazquez met with Marlins manager and fellow native Puerto Rican Edwin Rodriguez last week.
Why would the right-hander want just the one year? Most likely so he can reestablish his value and hit the market again next winter when he could be among the top few arms available, despite the fact that next winter's market may be improved. He may also be contemplating retirement or assessing where he might want to finish his career.
Stark mentions that Vazquez has already turned down at least one multi-year offer believed to be worth $20 million over two years, and that the Florida Marlins, Washington Nationals, Chicago Cubs and Colorado Rockies have already expressed interest.
Vazquez was offered arbitration by the Yankees, which means the club will receive a sandwich-round pick once he signs with a club this winter. The Yankees are not interested in retaining his services, according to multiple reports.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Yankees daring Jeter to leave[/h3]
7:24AM ET
[h5]Derek Jeter | Yankees [/h5]
On the day before Turkey Day, the New York Yankees and Derek Jeter are playing a game of chicken.
GM Brian Cashman said Tuesday that the Yankees have made a "fair and appropriate" contract offer to Jeter and suggested that if the 36-year-old shortstop thinks otherwise, he should shop himself around to find out.
"We understand his contributions to the franchise and our offer has taken them into account," Cashman told Wallace Matthews of .ESPNNewYork.com. "We've encouraged him to test the market and see if there's something he would prefer other than this. If he can, fine. That's the way it works."
Cashman said Tuesday the team will not offer Jeter arbitration. The Yankees have reportedly offered Jeter a three-year deal for $45 million while the shortstop is looking for four years.
Mark Feinsand of the NY Daily News wrote last week that the two sides are $50 million apart.
The Yankees are essentially telling Jeter, who is coming off the worst season of his career, that he will get nothing close to what the Yankees are offering should he test the open market. As Matthews points out, the Yankees allowed Babe Ruth to go elsewhere, so why not Jeter?
As for possible new homes, Andy Martino of the Daily News writes there is no chance Jeter will end up across town with the Mets.
- Doug Mittler
[h5]Buster Olney[/h5]
The Jeter negotiations
http://[h3]Boras' policy in DR causes concern[/h3]
7:05AM ET
[h5]Scott Boras [/h5]
[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
Super agent Scott Boras has plenty of work to work to do this offseason representing the likes of Jayson Werth and Adrian Beltre. He may also have to spend some time answering questions as to how his company operates in the Dominican Republic.
Michael S. Schmidt of the New York Times reports that Boras' company provided tens of thousands of dollars in loans and payments to the families of poor Dominican teenage prospects, raising questions about whether the company exploited the prospects and violated the rules of the MLBPA.
The issue is whether any payment could make a player feel that he is obligated to sign with a particular agent.
In a statement to the Times, Boras declined to say whether any loans were made, although he did say his company had "aided" players and families in the past. Major League Baseball says it is treating any possible payment as "a serious issue."
Will the Times story have an impact on Boras' empire. Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com doesn't think so. "Once the hysteria dies down and the facts come out, could the Times report mark the beginning of the end for Boras and his agency?" Crasnick writes. "There's a better chance that the Arizona Diamondbacks will trade Justin Upton for a lefty specialist and a few rosin bags to be named later."
- Doug Mittler
[h5]Buster Olney[/h5]
The union needs to act
The cap on Trevor Hoffman's Hall of Fame plaque will bear the logo of the San Diego Padres, regardless of what happens in the years ahead. Hoffman has pitched 18 years in the majors and in sixteen of those he played in a Padres uniform, so his ugly split with the team after the 2008 season will never change the fact that we will always think of Hoffman as a Padre.
Getty ImagesBell will almost surely be elsewhere by the trade deadline.
And it's possible that Hoffman could repair his relationship with the Padres; in fact, some folks within baseball are convinced that Hoffman will return to San Diego for next season. "It fits," said one official. "It makes all the sense in the world. He goes back and finishes his career as a Padre."
The question is whether it will be as a closer or a set-up man. The Padres' Heath Bell was arguably the best closer in the National League last season, racking up 47 saves, posting a 1.93 ERA. But Bell will be eligible for free agency after next season, at a time when the San Diego payroll is the lowest in the major leagues, and the expectation among general managers is that the Padres will trade Bell between now and the July 31 trade deadline, in an effort to recoup his value.
Hoffman got off to a terrible start for the Brewers last season and lost his job as the Milwaukee closer. But he pitched better in the second half, posting a 2.66 ERA and holding opposing hitters to a .208 batting average, and achieved his 600th career save. He is open to the idea of another season.
Whenever Bell is traded, the Padres could install Hoffman as the closer, if they signed him, and if Hoffman -- who is 43 years old -- had another poor year, San Diego has other alternatives, with Luke Gregerson and Mike Adams.
Jeff Moorad, the Padres' owner, is known to be very cognizant of public relations, of fostering good feelings. And patching the team's relationship with Hoffman, by bringing him back, could be a good thing for the franchise, in the big picture.
Hoffman left the Brewers with class, granting them a gift as he walked away.
[h3]Around the league[/h3]
• Cuba might lift restrictions on its players -- but still won't let them sign in the big leagues, as Uziel Gomez and Jorge Embro writes.
Victor Martinez, a rival executive mused over their roster. "It's going to be a pain in the (rear) to play them," he said. "They've got a lot of power arms -- in their bullpen, in their rotation. They may have overpaid to get [Joaquin] Benoit, but look at the arms they've got. Martinez gives them more depth in their lineup, to support [Miguel] Cabrera. That's a dangerous team."
Without a doubt. Justin Verlander is one of the 10 best pitchers in the majors, Rick Porcello learned how to make adjustments in his short stint in the minors last summer and was a different pitcher in the second half, and Max Scherzer had a good year. Jim Leyland's bullpen should be stacked. The only question is whether GM Dave Dombrowski can rebuild the lineup around Cabrera, and he's got a lot of cash to play with. They continue to be viewed as serious players in the bidding for outfielders, as well.
• The Yankees have made it clear that they intend to pay Derek Jeter more than what they perceive his value to be as a player on the open market, and not what his brand is worth, and as some executives and agents noted yesterday, Jeter doesn't appear to have a lot of leverage in his situation. "He needs the Yankees more than the Yankees need him," said one NL official, "because he's not an elite player anymore."
Jeter's leverage has to be built on interest from other clubs. The Giants haven't filled their shortstop hole, and neither have the Cincinnati Reds.
But is Jeter willing to walk away from his lifelong dream of being the shortstop of the Yankees? Would anybody actually offer him more than the $15 million salary that the Yankees are willing to pay him?
Brian Cashman is open in inviting Jeter to solicit other offers, to assess his own market value for himself. Hank Steinbrenner says the Yankees have made players very, very rich.
Only Hal Steinbrenner can fix this mess, writes Mike Lupica.
[h3]Arbitration[/h3]
• The Twins offered arbitration to three players, as Joe Christensen writes.
• As expected, the Phillies offered Jayson Werth arbitration.
• The White Sox offered arbitration to two players, but not to A.J. Pierzynski, as Joe Cowley writes.
• The Red Sox did not offer Jason Varitek arbitration, but they'd like to keep him.
• The Rays set themselves up to get a lot of draft picks.
• The D-Backs offered arbitration to two players.
• The Padres offered arbitration to three guys, writes Bill Center.
[h3]Notables[/h3]
• Josh Hamilton won the AL MVP Award, as expected. From Katie Sharp of ESPN Stats & Information: Hamilton is the fifth American League player in the last 80 seasons with a batting average of .350 or better, at least 30 home runs, 100 RBI and 40 doubles. The list:
[h4]Buster's New Book[/h4]
Buster Olney is the author of the book "recipient[/color] of the Jimmy V Award at the ESPYS.
"Surprising and unforgettable." - Mike Krzyzewski
"Olney knows the beating heart of life and the pulse of humanity that makes sports matter." - George F. Will
"A true inspiration." - Pat Summitt
2010 Josh Hamilton
1996 Alex Rodriguez
1986 Don Mattingly
1941 Joe DiMaggio
1934 Lou Gehrig
Miguel Cabrera finished second, but it has been a great year for him, as Drew Sharp writes.
Hamilton deserves a long-term deal, but the price must be right, writes Evan Grant.
• Terry Collins was introduced as the Mets' manager, and he says they can win next season, as Andy Martino writes. Collins will restore accountability and professionalism to the Mets, writes John Harper.
Collins vows that he's not that scary, writes Mike Vaccaro. Time will tell on whether Collins has changed, writes Art Stapleton.
[h3]The McCourts[/h3]
An arbitrator presented a possible solution to Frank and Jamie McCourt, writes Bill Shaikin and Carla Hall. [h3]Moves, deals and decisions[/h3]
1. Aubrey Huff cashed in on his championship season, landing a two-year deal with the Giants, and now San Francisco's priority is landing a shortstop, as Henry Schulman writes. The rest of the Giants' offseason could prove tortuous, writes Gary Peterson.
2. Boston is now committed to Jarrod Saltalamacchia as their everyday catcher, writes Peter Abraham. The Red Sox fans are looking for answers this Thanksgiving, writes Dan Shaughnessy.
3. Andy Pettitte will likely come back next season, writes Ken Davidoff.
4. Willie Randolph has been hired as the Orioles' bench coach.
5. Thad Bosley was hired as the Rangers' hitting coach.
6. More than ever, it looks like Jorge De La Rosa has thrown his last pitch for the Rockies, writes Jim Armstrong, and the Rockies may pursue Jon Garland.
[h3]Other stuff[/h3]
• Scott Boras says he did everything on the up and up.
• Alex Anthopoulos needs to use his time wisely, writes Dave Perkins, as he rebuilds the Blue Jays.
• Mark Simon writes about how Terry Collins handled a National League offense.
• Reid Laymance addresses the question: Should writers vote for awards?
Remember, with the MVP, the Cy Young, Manager of the Year and Rookie of the Year awards, those are awards bestowed by the writers' association; these are their awards to dole out. It's really no different than Time magazine picking its Man of the Year, or Sports Illustrated picking Sportsman of the Year. But the writers' awards are different than the Hall of Fame balloting, which is controlled by the Hall itself; this is why I don't think writers should be involved in that process.
And today will be better than yesterday.
http://[h3][/h3][h3]De La Rosa and Rockies parting ways?[/h3]
9:54AM ET
[h5]Jorge De La Rosa | Rockies | Interested: Rockies, Yankees?, Pirates? [/h5]
With each passing day, it looks more and more like Jorge De La Rosa is on his way out of Colorado.
The latest indication came Tuesday when the Rockies offered De La Rosa salary arbitration, assuring themselves of two draft picks if De La Rosa, a Type A free agent, signs with another club.
Jim Armstrong of the Denver Post reports Wednesday the Rockies remain adamant about sticking to a three-year deal for De La Rosa. De La Rosa's agent, Bobby Barad, continues talking to other teams, some of which are ready to commit at least four years. The list includes the Orioles, Nationals, Pirates, Yankees and Rangers.
The Rockies are making contingency plans for De La Rosa's departure and Armstrong says one player they may pursue is free agent Jon Garland, who won 14 games for the Padres last seasons. Other possibilities include free agents Carl Pavano and Javier Vazquez as well as Gavin Floyd, who could be available in a trade with the White Sox.
Troy Renck of the Denver Post reported last week the Rockies will bow out if the offer is for four years or more.
Renck added Monday that a higher priority for the Rockies should be to acquire a No. 5 hitter such as http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?playerId=28841Justin Upton.
- Doug Mittler
[h5]Keith Law[/h5]
The Book on De La Rosa
http://[h3]Pettitte leaning toward returning[/h3]
9:29AM ET
[h5]Andy Pettitte | Yankees [/h5]
An offseason ritual for New York Yankees fans in recent years is the mulling of retirement by veteran pitcher Andy Pettitte.
This winter, an answer could come sooner than later. Pettitte is leaning toward returning to the Yankees in 2011 and has the support of his family in doing so, reports Newsday?s Ken Davidoff.
Davidoff says Pettitte has not yet notified the Yankees of his decision, but could do so after Thanksgiving. Pettitte went 11-3 with a 3.28 ERA in 21 starts this season. He missed two months with a left groin strain and pitched well in two postseason starts despite back problems.
Starting pitching is a huge concern for the Yankees, who are making a strong pitch for free agent Cliff Lee. Whether Lee lands in the Bronx or not, Pettitte would likely find a place in the rotation for around the same $11.75 million he made in 2010.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Varitek's leverage[/h3]
9:11AM ET
[h5]Jason Varitek | Red Sox [/h5]
The Boston Red Sox allowed Tuesday's deadline to pass without offering arbitration to Jason Varitek, even if the veteran catcher saw his leverage rise with the departure of Victor Martinez to the Detroit Tigers.
Varitek may have accepted an offer, in which case he would've been signed next season at a modest raise from his $3 million salary.
At this stage, the Red Sox appear ready to move forward with Jarrod Saltalamacchia as the starter, but is relative lack of experience will make Varitek more valuable, even if he will turn 39 in April and is coming off a season in which he broke a bone in his right foot.
The Red Sox still could test the waters on a deal for another free agent such as Miguel Olivo, Yorvit Torrealba or Bengie Molina.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Could Hoffman return to SD?[/h3]
8:52AM ET
[h5]Trevor Hoffman | Brewers [/h5]
Trevor Hoffman apparently gave the Milwaukee Brewers a going-away present Tuesday. Could his next stop be a return to San Diego?
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reported Tuesday night that the Brewers have offered Hoffman arbitration, a surprising move by all accounts. The word is Hoffman agreed to decline so the Brewers can pick up a draft pick is he signs with another club, otherwise the Brewers could be on the hook for at least $6 million.
While there is talk that the future Hall of Famer might retire, ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney says some folks within baseball are convinced that Hoffman will return to San Diego for next season. "It fits," said one official. "It makes all the sense in the world. He goes back and finishes his career as a Padre."
The question is whether it will be as a closer or a set-up man. The Padres? Heath Bell was arguably the best closer in the National League last season, racking up 47 saves, posting a 1.93 ERA. But Bell will be eligible for free agency after next season, at a time when the San Diego payroll is the lowest in the major leagues, and the expectation among general managers is that the Padres will trade Bell between now and the July 31 trade deadline, in an effort to recoup his value. At that point, Hoffman could be the closer.
As for other possible destinations, we mentioned last week that Hoffman was keeping an eye on the closer situation in Arizona,.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Did Lee get a $140M offer?[/h3]
8:24AM ET
[h5]Cliff Lee | Rangers [/h5]
Exactly how expensive will it be to land http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?playerId=5353Cliff Lee? There are conflicting reports as to whether that figure is around $140 million.
Tim Brown of Yahoo! Sports reported late Monday night that the Yankees have offered Lee six years and $140 million, but Lee is requesting seven seasons. Mark Feinsand of the NY Daily News counters Wednesday that such an offer had not been made, with one of his sources adding that the Bombers had not made any official offers to Lee at all.
Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe wrote Sunday that "Word is the Yankees are in the $115 million-$120 million range for five years, while the Rangers are determined to match whatever it gets up to. The Nationals are another team aggressive in this hunt."
Rangers president Nolan Ryan said last week he believed that his club would be outbid for Lee, so Cafardo's comments would be a change of course.
Up until now, any talk of a Lee contract has been compared to the seven-year, $161 million deal the Yankees gave to http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?playerId=4553CC Sabathia a few years ago. Sabathia earns $23 million per season, but has a longer deal than Lee is expected to get.
Jon Heyman of SI.com reports the Rangers are believed willing to go at least four years for Lee, but it seems uncertain whether they'd go past that even for a pitcher who has no history of arm trouble. Heyman adds that the Yankees will definitely be willing to go at least five, making them the favorite.
At this stage, look for Lee to enjoy his Thanksgiving at home and for talks to heat up at the winter meetings next month in Florida.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Flexibility a key to Huff deal[/h3]
8:22AM ET
[h5]Aubrey Huff | Giants [/h5]
Most speculation has had San Francisco actively working to keep Aubrey Huff by the bay, and the Giants Tuesday with a two-year deal worth a minimum of $22 million.
The question now is whether GM Brian Sabean was in an overly charitable mood this holiday season regarding Huff, who surprised many with a .290 batting average, 26 HRs and a .385 OBP for the Giants in 2009.
At the very least, Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle says Huff's ability to play first base or the outfield gives Sabean significant flexibility, which is pivotal since two potential everyday players for 2011, Pablo Sandoval and Mark DeRosa, will remain question marks until spring training.
If Sabean acquires a position player, he knows Huff can easily take over the open slot. Our Keith Law, however, is far from thrilled with the signing:
- Doug Mittler
[h5]Keith Law[/h5]
Really, Brian Sabean?
http://[h3]Mets may bring back Mookie[/h3]
8:00AM ET
[h5]New York Mets [/h5]
The New York Mets passed on Wally Backman when choosing a manager, but may add at least one member of their 1986 World Series championship team to their coaching staff.
Andy Martino of the NY Daily News reports that the Mets will definitely consider Mookie Wilson for a coaching position under Terry Collins. Collins said he is committed to diversity in his staff, which would seem to help Wilson's chances.
Wilson, a Met from 1980-1989, coached first for the team from 1997-2002.
The Mets announced Tuesday that Howard Johnson will not return as hitting coach. Triple-A manager Ken Oberkfell is a good possibility.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Stark: Vazquez to sign in Miami?[/h3]
7:52AM ET
[h5]Javier Vazquez | Yankees [/h5]
Debunking reports that surfaced earlier this month suggesting that Javier Vazquez will seek a deal similar to that of Ted Lilly's 3-year, $33 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, ESPN.com's Jayson Stark reports that Vazquez wants a one-year contract, and that he may be headed for Florida.
A source tells Stark that the Marlins pursuit of Vazquez is hot and a deal could be completed soon, though not likely until after Thanksgiving. Stark also adds that other clubs with interest in Vazquez are now pessimistic about their chances to acquire the 34-year-old.
Vazquez met with Marlins manager and fellow native Puerto Rican Edwin Rodriguez last week.
Why would the right-hander want just the one year? Most likely so he can reestablish his value and hit the market again next winter when he could be among the top few arms available, despite the fact that next winter's market may be improved. He may also be contemplating retirement or assessing where he might want to finish his career.
Stark mentions that Vazquez has already turned down at least one multi-year offer believed to be worth $20 million over two years, and that the Florida Marlins, Washington Nationals, Chicago Cubs and Colorado Rockies have already expressed interest.
Vazquez was offered arbitration by the Yankees, which means the club will receive a sandwich-round pick once he signs with a club this winter. The Yankees are not interested in retaining his services, according to multiple reports.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Yankees daring Jeter to leave[/h3]
7:24AM ET
[h5]Derek Jeter | Yankees [/h5]
On the day before Turkey Day, the New York Yankees and Derek Jeter are playing a game of chicken.
GM Brian Cashman said Tuesday that the Yankees have made a "fair and appropriate" contract offer to Jeter and suggested that if the 36-year-old shortstop thinks otherwise, he should shop himself around to find out.
"We understand his contributions to the franchise and our offer has taken them into account," Cashman told Wallace Matthews of .ESPNNewYork.com. "We've encouraged him to test the market and see if there's something he would prefer other than this. If he can, fine. That's the way it works."
Cashman said Tuesday the team will not offer Jeter arbitration. The Yankees have reportedly offered Jeter a three-year deal for $45 million while the shortstop is looking for four years.
Mark Feinsand of the NY Daily News wrote last week that the two sides are $50 million apart.
The Yankees are essentially telling Jeter, who is coming off the worst season of his career, that he will get nothing close to what the Yankees are offering should he test the open market. As Matthews points out, the Yankees allowed Babe Ruth to go elsewhere, so why not Jeter?
As for possible new homes, Andy Martino of the Daily News writes there is no chance Jeter will end up across town with the Mets.
- Doug Mittler
[h5]Buster Olney[/h5]
The Jeter negotiations
http://[h3]Boras' policy in DR causes concern[/h3]
7:05AM ET
[h5]Scott Boras [/h5]
[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
Super agent Scott Boras has plenty of work to work to do this offseason representing the likes of Jayson Werth and Adrian Beltre. He may also have to spend some time answering questions as to how his company operates in the Dominican Republic.
Michael S. Schmidt of the New York Times reports that Boras' company provided tens of thousands of dollars in loans and payments to the families of poor Dominican teenage prospects, raising questions about whether the company exploited the prospects and violated the rules of the MLBPA.
The issue is whether any payment could make a player feel that he is obligated to sign with a particular agent.
In a statement to the Times, Boras declined to say whether any loans were made, although he did say his company had "aided" players and families in the past. Major League Baseball says it is treating any possible payment as "a serious issue."
Will the Times story have an impact on Boras' empire. Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com doesn't think so. "Once the hysteria dies down and the facts come out, could the Times report mark the beginning of the end for Boras and his agency?" Crasnick writes. "There's a better chance that the Arizona Diamondbacks will trade Justin Upton for a lefty specialist and a few rosin bags to be named later."
- Doug Mittler
[h5]Buster Olney[/h5]
The union needs to act
http://[h3]
[/h3][h3]Mets 2B job up for grabs?[/h3]
2:20PM ET
[h5]New York Mets [/h5]
Luis Castillo has struggled the past two season for the New York Mets, which has the club hoping the brewing battle between the incumbent and Daniel Murphy produces better results. Murphy is getting a long look at second base this winter in the Dominican Republic and ESPNNewYork.com's Adam Rubin writes that the converted outfielder is doing just fine.
One scout, writes Rubin, says Murphy has been very serviceable," and has "made all the plays but one. His arm action is a little long from second. If he could tighten that up, it might serve him a little better. It's almost like an outfield thrower's arm. "
Castillo will be a free agent after 2011 and is set to make $6 million, so simply releasing him prior to spring training is probably out of the question. But if Murphy appears to be an adequate defender, he's almost certain to get the nod come Opening Day, considering his offensive profile.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Branyan back to Mariners?[/h3]
1:42PM ET
[h5]Russell Branyan | Mariners [/h5]
Among the short-term options at first base or designated hitter is soon-to-be 35-year-old Russell Branyan, who says he prefers to return to Seattle for 2011, according to the Tacoma News Tribune.
Branyan isn't likely to be the top option for clubs looking for a bat, but could be a backup plan to clubs considering Lance Berkman, Vladimir Guerrero, Hideki Matsui and Jim Thome, thanks to his prodigious power and left-handed swing.
Branyan's back problems have cost him significant time the past two seasons, which will likely keep the costs down, an aspect that means something to Seattle. Texas, Houston, the Los Angeles Angels and Baltimore Orioles could be among the veteran's suitors should the Mariners head in another direction.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Pierzynski's suitors[/h3]
1:23PM ET
[h5]A.J. Pierzynski | White Sox [/h5]
Tuesday was an eventful day for the catching market; the Detroit Tigers signed Victor Martinez to a four-year deal and two potentially key free agent backstops were not offered arbitration, releasing them from the grasp of free-agent compensation.
The Chicago White Sox and Texas Rangers declined to offer arbitration to A.J. Pierzynski and Bengie Molina, both Type-A free agents. Each player can now be inked without the signing club giving up a draft pick, which certainly improves their market as a whole.
The Boston Red Sox, who lost out on Martinez, and the Texas Rangers could have interest in Pierzynski, and Molina could show up on the Red Sox radar just as easy he could return to Arlington.
If the Los Angeles Dodgers end up trading or non-tendering Russell Martin, Pierzynski or Molina could be an option.
The White Sox are reportedly interested in retaining Pierzynski's services, likely on a short-term deal.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Latest on Upton[/h3]
12:55PM ET
[h5]Justin Upton | Diamondbacks [/h5]
We've discussed the possible destinations for Justin Upton for more than a week now, and even went over some potential trade packages for clubs that have reportedly shown interest. But there are other obstacles, such as Upton's limited no-trade clause.
Ken Rosenthal tweeted a few days ago that the no-trade list includes both the Royals and the Mariners, but not the Indians, as he'd tweeted late last week, but Upton's agents tweeted that the Mariners are not on the list, meaning Rosenthal was right the first time.
The Mariners, Rosenthal continues, would have to start off a package with No. 1 prospect Dustin Ackley, whom the club is certain to be reluctant to move.
The other two clubs on the no-trade list -- the A's and Tigers -- have not been mentioned in reports as being among those interested in Upton, though there appear to be several clubs that simply went unreported.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Rangers keeping Francisco?[/h3]
12:45PM ET
[h5]Frank Francisco | Rangers [/h5]
Frank Francisco was offered arbitration Tuesday and the Texas Rangers expect the right-hander to accept the offer and return for 2011, tweets Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Francisco was once the closer in Arlington but gave way to Neftali Feliz and missed part of last season due to injury. But if the Rangers lose Cliff Lee to the Yankees they may decide to transition Feliz into a starting pitcher which means they need the bullpen depth.
Francisco could get offers to set up in cities such as Arizona, Colorado, or even Los Angeles where the Angels lack such depth, but figures to receive just one guaranteed year. He can get that in Texas by accepting the arbitration offer.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Relief trio truly free[/h3]
12:34PM ET
[h5]Free agent relievers [/h5]
[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
Amidst the arbitration offers before Tuesday's deadline, some of the most intriguing news came in the form of three relievers being informed they were not being offered arbitration. The Minnesota Twins did not tender such an offer to right-handers Jon Rauch and Matt Guerrier or southpaw Brian Fuentes, tweets Joe Christensen of the Star Tribune, nor did the Tampa Rays to Dan Wheeler or the Cincinnati Reds to Arthur Rhodes. The trio can now shop their talents to the open market without those clubs being concerned with sacrificing a high draft pick as compensation. Rhodes, however, is expected to re-up with the Reds.
Wheeler and Guerrier could find themselves in a better position than fellow free agent bullpen arms such as Scott Downs, Jason Frasor, and Grant Balfour, whose clubs did offer them arbitration.
Rauch and Fuentes, as well as a number of others, ranked as Type-B free agents, which do not require the signing club to forfeit the picks.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]New deal for the MVP?[/h3]
12:17PM ET
[h5]Josh Hamilton | Rangers [/h5]
Texas Rangers centerfielder Josh Hamilton was named the American League Most Valuable Player Tuesday after winning the batting title and leading the club to its first playoff series win and World Series appearance in its history. That success, individual and team alike, could land the former No. 1 pick a new contract.
The Rangers, reports Tim McMahon of ESPNDallas.com, have had internal conversations about the idea and plan to contact Hamilton's agent this winter to discuss the matter. The 29-year-old is due a raise from the $3.25 million he made in 2010 via the arbitration process, but is not due to hit free agency until after the 2012 season.
Hamilton had a unique take on the thought of a multi-year extension: "That's why I have an agent," Hamilton said. "I stay out of it. I get paid to play the game. I don't get paid to think about getting paid. "I can't find my joy in material things."
Such a refreshing approach, however, will not likely stop Hamilton from seeking fair market value and getting all of that and more.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Cubs and A's in on Berkman [/h3]
12:02PM ET
[h5]Lance Berkman | Yankees | Interested: Rockies? [/h5]
Lance Berkman is being pursued by at last two clubs right now, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports, with the Cubs and A's at the forefront.
Colorado could make some sense, too, as th switch-hitting veteran could serve as the right-handed half of a platoon at first base with Todd Helton, but Berkman talks as if he's seeking an everyday gig.
"That's a place that I would definitely have interest in," " target=new>Berkman told the Denver Post last month.
ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick tweeted earlier this month that in the wake of the trade that sent David DeJesus to Oakland, the A's have Berkman in their cross hairs. The club's designated hitters combined to produce a .724 OPS last season.
Muskat's entry includes a quote from Berkman saying the A's have been the most aggressive thus far.
The Rangers could consider Berkman should their other options, such as Paul Konerko, fall through, and the Mariners could have interest as well. Berkman, however, may strongly prefer to get back t the National League.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Orioles go to Plan B at first base[/h3]
11:07AM ET
[h5]Baltimore Orioles [/h5]
The Baltimore Orioles were believed to be an active participant in the Victor Martinez sweepstakes, with Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun reporting the Birds were willing to set themselves back $48 million over four years.
Martinez instead took a $50 million deal with the suddenly free spending Tigers, forcing the Orioles to go to Plan B when it comes to a first baseman. The available options include Lance Berkman, Adam Dunn, Paul Konerko, Adam LaRoche, Derrek Lee and Carlos Pena.
Dunn and Konerko have the most potent bats of the group, but neither has shown a strong inclination of wanting to come to Baltimore.
The Orioles wouldn't mind adding another righty bat to a lineup that already has lefties Luke Scott and Nick Markakis in the middle of the order. Lee could be a fit, even if he is 35 and coming off a season in which he hit just .260 with 19 homers and 80 RBI.
Orioles first baseman ranked a dismal 27th last season with a .226 batting average, so they will be making a move at some point.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Rangers pursuing Konerko?[/h3]
10:49AM ET
[h5]Paul Konerko | White Sox [/h5]
The Chicago White Sox elected to offer arbitration to Paul Konerko, knowing full well that the first baseman will likely reject the offer and find a multi-year deal on the open market.
Ken Rosenthal reports that the Texas Rangers, who made a strong pitch for Victor Martinez, are showing interest in Konerko.
The salary arbitration offer to Konerko should not be a deterrent to the Rangers, who were willing to sacrifice their first-round pick for Martinez, who is on his way to Detroit. Konerko, if he does not stay with the White Sox, reportedly would prefer to join a team near his home in Arizona. The Rangers are not as close as the Diamondbacks, Dodgers and Angels, but the club trains in Arizona.
There was speculation that the Diamondbacks might make a strong push for Konerko, but Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic suggests otherwise.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Uribe still on Giants' radar[/h3]
10:25AM ET
[h5]Juan Uribe | Giants [/h5]
The San Francisco Giants took care of their top offseason priority Tuesday by re-signing Aubrey Huff. The focus now shifts to finding a shortstop, where GM Brian Sabean wouldn't mind bringing back Juan Uribe.
As Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle points out, the Giants still have plenty of interest in re-signing Uribe, who may also be drawing interest from the hated Dodgers.
The Giants offered Uribe arbitration on Tuesday, assuring themselves of at least a consolation prize.
Schulman says Sabean continues to discuss trades for shortstops and would love to land Stephen Drew, but Diamondbacks GM Kevin Towers won't put him on the market. The names of Marco Scutaro and Jason Bartlett have popped up in recent rumors and could be on Sabean's radar.
http://[h3]
[/h3][h3]Mets 2B job up for grabs?[/h3]
2:20PM ET
[h5]New York Mets [/h5]
Luis Castillo has struggled the past two season for the New York Mets, which has the club hoping the brewing battle between the incumbent and Daniel Murphy produces better results. Murphy is getting a long look at second base this winter in the Dominican Republic and ESPNNewYork.com's Adam Rubin writes that the converted outfielder is doing just fine.
One scout, writes Rubin, says Murphy has been very serviceable," and has "made all the plays but one. His arm action is a little long from second. If he could tighten that up, it might serve him a little better. It's almost like an outfield thrower's arm. "
Castillo will be a free agent after 2011 and is set to make $6 million, so simply releasing him prior to spring training is probably out of the question. But if Murphy appears to be an adequate defender, he's almost certain to get the nod come Opening Day, considering his offensive profile.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Branyan back to Mariners?[/h3]
1:42PM ET
[h5]Russell Branyan | Mariners [/h5]
Among the short-term options at first base or designated hitter is soon-to-be 35-year-old Russell Branyan, who says he prefers to return to Seattle for 2011, according to the Tacoma News Tribune.
Branyan isn't likely to be the top option for clubs looking for a bat, but could be a backup plan to clubs considering Lance Berkman, Vladimir Guerrero, Hideki Matsui and Jim Thome, thanks to his prodigious power and left-handed swing.
Branyan's back problems have cost him significant time the past two seasons, which will likely keep the costs down, an aspect that means something to Seattle. Texas, Houston, the Los Angeles Angels and Baltimore Orioles could be among the veteran's suitors should the Mariners head in another direction.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Pierzynski's suitors[/h3]
1:23PM ET
[h5]A.J. Pierzynski | White Sox [/h5]
Tuesday was an eventful day for the catching market; the Detroit Tigers signed Victor Martinez to a four-year deal and two potentially key free agent backstops were not offered arbitration, releasing them from the grasp of free-agent compensation.
The Chicago White Sox and Texas Rangers declined to offer arbitration to A.J. Pierzynski and Bengie Molina, both Type-A free agents. Each player can now be inked without the signing club giving up a draft pick, which certainly improves their market as a whole.
The Boston Red Sox, who lost out on Martinez, and the Texas Rangers could have interest in Pierzynski, and Molina could show up on the Red Sox radar just as easy he could return to Arlington.
If the Los Angeles Dodgers end up trading or non-tendering Russell Martin, Pierzynski or Molina could be an option.
The White Sox are reportedly interested in retaining Pierzynski's services, likely on a short-term deal.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Latest on Upton[/h3]
12:55PM ET
[h5]Justin Upton | Diamondbacks [/h5]
We've discussed the possible destinations for Justin Upton for more than a week now, and even went over some potential trade packages for clubs that have reportedly shown interest. But there are other obstacles, such as Upton's limited no-trade clause.
Ken Rosenthal tweeted a few days ago that the no-trade list includes both the Royals and the Mariners, but not the Indians, as he'd tweeted late last week, but Upton's agents tweeted that the Mariners are not on the list, meaning Rosenthal was right the first time.
The Mariners, Rosenthal continues, would have to start off a package with No. 1 prospect Dustin Ackley, whom the club is certain to be reluctant to move.
The other two clubs on the no-trade list -- the A's and Tigers -- have not been mentioned in reports as being among those interested in Upton, though there appear to be several clubs that simply went unreported.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Rangers keeping Francisco?[/h3]
12:45PM ET
[h5]Frank Francisco | Rangers [/h5]
Frank Francisco was offered arbitration Tuesday and the Texas Rangers expect the right-hander to accept the offer and return for 2011, tweets Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Francisco was once the closer in Arlington but gave way to Neftali Feliz and missed part of last season due to injury. But if the Rangers lose Cliff Lee to the Yankees they may decide to transition Feliz into a starting pitcher which means they need the bullpen depth.
Francisco could get offers to set up in cities such as Arizona, Colorado, or even Los Angeles where the Angels lack such depth, but figures to receive just one guaranteed year. He can get that in Texas by accepting the arbitration offer.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Relief trio truly free[/h3]
12:34PM ET
[h5]Free agent relievers [/h5]
[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
Amidst the arbitration offers before Tuesday's deadline, some of the most intriguing news came in the form of three relievers being informed they were not being offered arbitration. The Minnesota Twins did not tender such an offer to right-handers Jon Rauch and Matt Guerrier or southpaw Brian Fuentes, tweets Joe Christensen of the Star Tribune, nor did the Tampa Rays to Dan Wheeler or the Cincinnati Reds to Arthur Rhodes. The trio can now shop their talents to the open market without those clubs being concerned with sacrificing a high draft pick as compensation. Rhodes, however, is expected to re-up with the Reds.
Wheeler and Guerrier could find themselves in a better position than fellow free agent bullpen arms such as Scott Downs, Jason Frasor, and Grant Balfour, whose clubs did offer them arbitration.
Rauch and Fuentes, as well as a number of others, ranked as Type-B free agents, which do not require the signing club to forfeit the picks.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]New deal for the MVP?[/h3]
12:17PM ET
[h5]Josh Hamilton | Rangers [/h5]
Texas Rangers centerfielder Josh Hamilton was named the American League Most Valuable Player Tuesday after winning the batting title and leading the club to its first playoff series win and World Series appearance in its history. That success, individual and team alike, could land the former No. 1 pick a new contract.
The Rangers, reports Tim McMahon of ESPNDallas.com, have had internal conversations about the idea and plan to contact Hamilton's agent this winter to discuss the matter. The 29-year-old is due a raise from the $3.25 million he made in 2010 via the arbitration process, but is not due to hit free agency until after the 2012 season.
Hamilton had a unique take on the thought of a multi-year extension: "That's why I have an agent," Hamilton said. "I stay out of it. I get paid to play the game. I don't get paid to think about getting paid. "I can't find my joy in material things."
Such a refreshing approach, however, will not likely stop Hamilton from seeking fair market value and getting all of that and more.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Cubs and A's in on Berkman [/h3]
12:02PM ET
[h5]Lance Berkman | Yankees | Interested: Rockies? [/h5]
Lance Berkman is being pursued by at last two clubs right now, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports, with the Cubs and A's at the forefront.
Colorado could make some sense, too, as th switch-hitting veteran could serve as the right-handed half of a platoon at first base with Todd Helton, but Berkman talks as if he's seeking an everyday gig.
"That's a place that I would definitely have interest in," " target=new>Berkman told the Denver Post last month.
ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick tweeted earlier this month that in the wake of the trade that sent David DeJesus to Oakland, the A's have Berkman in their cross hairs. The club's designated hitters combined to produce a .724 OPS last season.
Muskat's entry includes a quote from Berkman saying the A's have been the most aggressive thus far.
The Rangers could consider Berkman should their other options, such as Paul Konerko, fall through, and the Mariners could have interest as well. Berkman, however, may strongly prefer to get back t the National League.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Orioles go to Plan B at first base[/h3]
11:07AM ET
[h5]Baltimore Orioles [/h5]
The Baltimore Orioles were believed to be an active participant in the Victor Martinez sweepstakes, with Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun reporting the Birds were willing to set themselves back $48 million over four years.
Martinez instead took a $50 million deal with the suddenly free spending Tigers, forcing the Orioles to go to Plan B when it comes to a first baseman. The available options include Lance Berkman, Adam Dunn, Paul Konerko, Adam LaRoche, Derrek Lee and Carlos Pena.
Dunn and Konerko have the most potent bats of the group, but neither has shown a strong inclination of wanting to come to Baltimore.
The Orioles wouldn't mind adding another righty bat to a lineup that already has lefties Luke Scott and Nick Markakis in the middle of the order. Lee could be a fit, even if he is 35 and coming off a season in which he hit just .260 with 19 homers and 80 RBI.
Orioles first baseman ranked a dismal 27th last season with a .226 batting average, so they will be making a move at some point.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Rangers pursuing Konerko?[/h3]
10:49AM ET
[h5]Paul Konerko | White Sox [/h5]
The Chicago White Sox elected to offer arbitration to Paul Konerko, knowing full well that the first baseman will likely reject the offer and find a multi-year deal on the open market.
Ken Rosenthal reports that the Texas Rangers, who made a strong pitch for Victor Martinez, are showing interest in Konerko.
The salary arbitration offer to Konerko should not be a deterrent to the Rangers, who were willing to sacrifice their first-round pick for Martinez, who is on his way to Detroit. Konerko, if he does not stay with the White Sox, reportedly would prefer to join a team near his home in Arizona. The Rangers are not as close as the Diamondbacks, Dodgers and Angels, but the club trains in Arizona.
There was speculation that the Diamondbacks might make a strong push for Konerko, but Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic suggests otherwise.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Uribe still on Giants' radar[/h3]
10:25AM ET
[h5]Juan Uribe | Giants [/h5]
The San Francisco Giants took care of their top offseason priority Tuesday by re-signing Aubrey Huff. The focus now shifts to finding a shortstop, where GM Brian Sabean wouldn't mind bringing back Juan Uribe.
As Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle points out, the Giants still have plenty of interest in re-signing Uribe, who may also be drawing interest from the hated Dodgers.
The Giants offered Uribe arbitration on Tuesday, assuring themselves of at least a consolation prize.
Schulman says Sabean continues to discuss trades for shortstops and would love to land Stephen Drew, but Diamondbacks GM Kevin Towers won't put him on the market. The names of Marco Scutaro and Jason Bartlett have popped up in recent rumors and could be on Sabean's radar.
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[h1]'Backs Acquire Zach Duke[/h1]
By Mark Polishuk [November 24, 2010 at 6:10pm CST]
The Diamondbacks have acquired left-hander Zach Duke from the Pirates in exchange for a player to be named later, according to an Arizona team press release.
By Mark Polishuk [November 24, 2010 at 6:10pm CST]
The Diamondbacks have acquired left-hander Zach Duke from the Pirates in exchange for a player to be named later, according to an Arizona team press release.
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[h1]'Backs Acquire Zach Duke[/h1]
By Mark Polishuk [November 24, 2010 at 6:10pm CST]
The Diamondbacks have acquired left-hander Zach Duke from the Pirates in exchange for a player to be named later, according to an Arizona team press release.
By Mark Polishuk [November 24, 2010 at 6:10pm CST]
The Diamondbacks have acquired left-hander Zach Duke from the Pirates in exchange for a player to be named later, according to an Arizona team press release.
