An impatient Blue Jays entourage awaiting a decision by free-agent pitcher A.J. Burnett is expected to get that outcome today. But late word last night wasn't good for Jays fans as Burnett was said to be on the verge of inking a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals.
It's possible, but not likely, that Mets GM Omar Minaya might turn around and send Paul Lo Duca to Arizona as part of a package for Javier Vazquez and then sign either Hernandez or Molina. Vazquez has demanded a trade, exercising his right as a player traded in the middle of the multiyear deal he signed after being traded to the Yankees in December 2003. And the Mets are more than a little interested. Minaya was Vazquez's GM when both were with the Montreal Expos.
The A's would love to sign free agent Frank Thomas, and there's a simple reason they won't formally offer the Big Hurt a contract before Wednesday -- they can't stand losing compensatory draft picks. The White Sox won't offer arbitration to Thomas after re-signing Paul Konerko and trading for Jim Thome. So once the Wednesday deadline passes, and there's no longer an issue of losing draft picks
Finding a right fielder The Cubs would prefer that he be left-handed and a power hitter. Wow, that's a tough one. Be assured this will cost the Cubs Todd Walker and at least a couple of young pitchers like Jerome Williams and Sergio Mitre, perhaps even a young position player like Cedeno. Maybe this is the right time to acquire a player Hendry has desired for years, the Mets' Cliff Floyd, who is a Chicago native. "We have a lot of good guys to deal if we want to," Hendry said.
Indians GM Mark Shapiro would not comment on Saturday's visit with closer Trevor Hoffman. Shapiro and manager Eric Wedge met with Hoffman at his home in Del Mar, Calif. "From what I heard the meeting went extremely well," said Josh Goldberg of Beverly Hills Sports Council, the agency that represents Hoffman. Rick Thurman, Hoffman's agent, was scheduled to meet with the Indians on Sunday night or this morning to talk money. Hoffman saved 43 games last season for San Diego. "I'm not going to comment," said Shapiro, when asked about Hoffman. "Let's just say we've arranged meetings with every agent we need to talk to about the players we're interested in."
Chicago has interest in Mench and may become more involved with Soriano now that they've lost free-agent target Rafael Furcal to Los Angeles. The Cubs have some young pitching available, including Jerome Williams. A real wild-card possibility might be a huge deal that involves Irving's immensely talented – but oft-injured – Kerry Wood.
If the Jays fail to land Burnett, they would still have the potential to get in on the expected trade bonanza for Oakland A's left-hander Barry Zito, who could wind up being the showstopper of the meetings. With one season to go until free agency, Zito will almost certainly require a multi-year package from any team he is traded to and the Jays, if Burnett spurns their overtures, will be flush with enough cash to make a tempting proposal.
The Mets were linked to Sammy Sosa over the weekend in the Dominican Republic — where some officials traveled last week. Sosa is reportedly negotiating with several teams, and he was a target of Minaya last winter.
Phillies GM Pat Gillick is keeping the contents to himself. It's known, however, that he would prefer to add a lefthander to balance out a rotation that figures to be all righthanded until Randy Wolf returns from reconstructive elbow surgery sometime after the All-Star break. And that narrows the field of candidates considerably. Of course, the Phillies will ask about Dontrelle Willis and Barry Zito. It's unlikely that either will be available, however.
Which brings us to another player the A's are targeting: Dodgers outfielder Milton Bradley. Ned Colletti, the Dodgers' GM, says he wants character guys, and Bradley is no Marquis Grissom. Colletti is making Bradley available, and sources in Dallas confirmed Sunday night that the A's are in hot pursuit. The A's, deep in starting pitching, could offer Kirk Saarloos or lefty Joe Kennedy in a package. To part with Barry Zito -- not a necessity, Beane said -- the A's would need more of a sure thing.
The Reds also are willing to part with one of their four outfielders: Ken Griffey Jr., Austin Kearns, Wily Mo Pena and 40-home-run man Adam Dunn. Dunn could net $9 million in arbitration this year and would be a free agent next winter. Pena, an exceptional raw talent the Pirates long have admired, would cost plenty in trade terms.
The Dodgers power hitter could be a second-tier free-agent outfielder such as Jeromy Burnitz, Reggie Sanders, Jacque Jones or Preston Wilson. The third baseman is expected to be Bill Mueller or Joe Randa. Both would be relatively inexpensive and the Dodgers would offer a short-term deal because top prospect Andy LaRoche is expected to be ready by 2007. Free agent Nomar Garciaparra has expressed a willingness to play third base and was a favorite of former general manager Paul DePodesta, but Colletti has concerns about his health — especially with so many current Dodgers coming off injuries. The Dodgers have extended offers to several starting pitchers, including Matt Morris. "We've talked to a lot of teams and have focused in on a select group of free agents," Colletti said.
On The Reds Most Likely To Go List, place outfielders Wily Mo Pena and Austin Kearns at the top. But there could be others, if GM Dan O'Brien believes Ken Griffey or Adam Dunn or Sean Casey or anybody else will bring over-the-top pitching. For example, Oakland is willing to trade Barry Zito for a power-hitting outfielder. Dunn? Kearns? Kearns and Pena?
Brewers GM Doug Melvin also is willing to trade Russell Branyan for a reliever, and has received inquiries about him.
Baltimore most likely will try to improve through trades. One team official said the team has some interest in Florida Marlins center fielder Juan Pierre but no serious talks have taken place. The Texas Rangers' Adrian Gonzalez could fill the void at first base, but talks are just in the initial stages. Baltimore seems willing to explore all options, even trading young players such as starter Erik Bedard and reliever Jorge Julio. The Orioles have been linked with Philadelphia outfielder Bobby Abreu, but it likely would take Bedard and another player to acquire the slugger. Baltimore may balk at such a price.
Atlanta needs a proven closer, either from the thinning ranks of free agents — Trevor Hoffman, Todd Jones and Bob Wickman remain from that list — or through a trade. Possible trade targets include Tampa Bay's Danys Baez, Toronto's Miguel Batista and possibly Houston's Brad Lidge, if the Astros are serious about entertaining offers for the All-Star who saved 42 games and recorded 103 strikeouts before struggling in the postseason.
Cincinnati first baseman Sean Casey, an Upper St. Clair native, is available. He is due $8.5 million next year, a figure the Pirates could afford, but the Reds covet a young arm in return. That might be more than the Pirates will want to give up for a player who can be a free agent next winter.
With no top-notch catching prospect ready to make the jump to the majors, re-signing Brad Ausmus is a priority. Ausmus said last week the Astros and San Diego Padres remain his favorites, but his agent has made contact with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Agent Scott Boras and Johnny Damon evidently did not make a stealth visit to the Hotel Commonwealth in Kenmore Square last Friday, as reported in Sunday's Boston Herald. According to the Herald, there were ''strong indications" Damon and his wife, Michelle, accompanied Boras in face-to-face contract negotiations with Lucchino during the weekend. The paper also reported ''the Damons, Boras, Lucchino, and the Sox official's wife were seen leaving an executive conference room at the Hotel Commonwealth in Kenmore Square on Friday night in good spirits, which provided a clear indication that the Sox are making a sincere effort to re-sign Damon before the end of baseball's annual winter meetings." Lucchino, in an e-mail exchange last night, labeled the Herald article ''100 percent false," adding that the club had ''no meetings with Scott in Boston last week." ''The report was completely and utterly wrong."
Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd will arrive at the Anatole today for this year's rendition of the winter meetings without any expectation of grabbing national attention. He figures to sign 39-year-old Jose Mesa to fill out the bullpen, hopes to work out the details of a multiyear contract for closer Brian Fuentes and would like to make a trade to add a catcher, probably Yorvit Torrealba from the Seattle Mariners or Josh Bard from the Cleveland Indians. The primary search is for pitching help. They think Mesa, a closer in Pittsburgh the past two years, will be a solid right-handed setup man for closer Fuentes, but they also would like a left-handed reliever. They have looked at rotation candidates but seem willing to give Sunny Kim an opportunity in the rotation instead of overspending on a journeyman.
It's not entirely beyond the realm of possibility that Dan Kolb could return to the Brewers before spring. After a disastrous year with Atlanta (3-8, 5.93 earned run average, 11 for 18 in save opportunities), he almost certainly will not be tendered a contract by the Dec. 20 deadline. Once cut loose, Kolb would be free to sign with any club. He still has a home in Union Grove and did his best work ever under Brewers pitching coach Mike Maddux.
Trading expensive pitcher Odalis Perez, troubled outfielder Milton Bradley and backup catcher Jason Phillips would free up additional money. But the Dodgers are reluctant to trade the prospects that figure into the team's future beyond 2006.
Washington's primary chip in a trade is outfielder-first baseman Brad Wilkerson, who clubs value because of his versatility and ability to get on base. Wilkerson, who made $3.05 million in 2005, is eligible for arbitration, and with Boras as his agent, it's possible negotiations could be difficult. The Chicago Cubs are among the teams that have interest in Wilkerson, who hit leadoff for Washington last year but who most club officials feel would be better-suited for the middle of a the lineup.
The Braves hoped they wouldn't have to replace Rafael Furcal, but knew there was a strong possibility and already had some discussions with Tampa Bay about shortstop Julio Lugo. He comes with baggage — arrested and charged with assaulting his wife in 2003. He had his best season in 2005 (.295, 57 RBIs, 39 steals, .362 on-base percentage) and is under contract only for 2006 at $4.95 million. A one-year commitment is attractive to the Braves, who have shortstop prospects rising in their organization. Kansas City's Angel Berroa (36 homers, 171 RBIs in the past three seasons) also has drawn interest from Atlanta. "We always go into these meetings feeling we'll be able to advance the ball," Schuerholz said.
The Mariners are believed to have interest in obtaining Carl Pavano from the Yankees, but the latest word from New York is that the Yankees aren't looking to trade him despite a disappointing season. Pavano, for whom Seattle made a strong bid as a free agent last year, still has three years and $30 million left on his contract. The Yankees are looking for a center fielder, and Jeremy Reed could be a fit for them.
The Indians also met with Nomar Garciaparra's representatives Sunday night. The Indians think Garciaparra could help them at first base, third base and in right field.
Angels GM Bill Stoneman could explore deals for Kansas City first baseman Mike Sweeney, Arizona third baseman Troy Glaus, Seattle third baseman Adrian Beltre or Soriano. Nomar Garciaparra, Reggie Sanders, Preston Wilson, Rondell White and Frank Thomas could pique the Angels' interest. Stoneman has informed the agent for Mike Piazza that the Angels are not interested in the former Met catcher right now.
The Angels are reluctant to part with pitcher Ervin Santana or top power prospect Brandon Wood, who have come up in talks with the Red Sox about Manny Ramirez. Wood, a shortstop, hit 43 home runs in the minors last season. Ramirez, who hit .300 with 88 home runs and 274 runs batted in over the last two seasons, is owed $57 million over the next three seasons, though $12 million is deferred over a 16-year period beginning in 2011. Any deal with the Angels would require the Red Sox to assume salary in the form of first baseman Darin Erstad ($8.5 million), center fielder Steve Finley ($7 million) and perhaps second baseman Adam Kennedy ($3.35 million). But if the teams can agree on the players — it might take a three-team deal — the Angels won't let Ramirez's quirky personality block their path.
Unless the Marlins are prepared to open the campaign with a duo of Matt Treanor and converted catcher/outfielder Josh Willingham, they'll seek Lo Duca's replacement via free agency or trade, and may give former Yankee John Flaherty a look. Yorvit Torrealba (Mariners) and Josh Bard (Indians) also are being shopped. Former Marlin Charles Johnson, currently out of baseball, is another low-budget alternative.
Baltimore is still considering an offer to Cubs free agent shortstop Nomar Garciaparra to play first base, but he is not expected to sign with any team until late in the offseason. Garciaparra, who has missed significant time the past two seasons with injuries, may eventually get a lengthy contract offer the Orioles think is too risky to match.
The Giants want a productive left-handed hitter , but Brian Sabean's priority at the meetings is finding a starting pitcher. He'll get a better read on Matt Morris through agent Barry Axelrod and would prefer to wait until after Wednesday's deadline to sign a free agent.
The Yankees also are expected to have more talks with the Phillies about Jason Michaels, who became expendable once Philadelphia acquired Aaron Rowand from the White Sox. They also have spoken internally about pursuing free-agent outfielder Juan Encarnacion.
The Royals have long coveted Kevin Mench, but unless the Rangers can get former No. 1 pick Zack Greinke from Kansas City, these talks probably aren't going anywhere. If the Rangers deal Mench, they want somebody who can assume an immediate role of prominence in the rotation.
Once the Dec. 7 date for offering arbitration to free agents passes, the Royals could complete deals with pitcher Elmer Dessens, who turns 35 in January, and backup catcher Todd Pratt, who will be 39 when the season starts. Because of the weak free-agent class, the Royals — nor other teams — aren’t exactly pursuing baseball’s crème de la crème. Among the Royals’ potential targets: outfielder Reggie Sanders, pitchers Kenny Rogers and Matt Morris, and second baseman Tony Graffanino, a former Royal.
Two other marquee free agents, pitcher Kevin Millwood and center fielder Johnny Damon, play positions of need for Baltimore, but they are represented by agent Scott Boras, who has not begun serious negotiations with any teams. "It's not been time for him to grab center stage," Flanagan jokingly said of Boras. "Maybe in February."
Nats GM Jim Bowden has also been in touch with agent Scott Boras about his stable of pitchers, which includes Kevin Millwood, Jarrod Washburn and Kenny Rogers. Bowden will almost certainly discuss all three this week. Another target is former St. Louis stalwart Matt Morris, who has never had a losing season in his eight-year career.
Here's a look at some other lefthanded starters who, according to various baseball sources, could be available.
• Erik Bedard, Orioles. Plenty of teams are asking about this 26-year-old (along with righties Daniel Cabrera and Hayden Penn). General manager Mike Flanagan almost has to listen since he's looking for a power-hitting first baseman, starting leftfielder and centerfielder and a backup catcher. If he's going to deal a lefty, though, he would rather move former No. 1 draft pick Adam Loewen. He also would be willing to throw in relievers Jorge Julio and/or Steve Kline.
Bedard was 5-1, 2.08 in the first 6 weeks of the season, missed 2 months with a strained left knee and won just once in his last 15 starts.
• Odalis Perez, Dodgers. After reaching an agreement to sign free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal, new Los Angeles general manager Ned Colletti would love to add a big bat to the middle of his lineup. The Dodgers also have a stockpile of prospects including pitchers Chad Billingsley, Chuck Tiffany, Jonathon Broxton, Justin Orenduff and Edwin Jackson.
Perez had a disappointing season after a 3.26 earned run average in 2004 convinced former general manager Paul DePodesta to give him a big contract extension. He was 7-8, 4.56 and was also on the disabled list twice. On the plus side, he's still just 28.
• David Wells, Boston. He's old (42). He's fat (listed at 250 pounds). He'll probably go on the disabled list at least once and say something stupid at least twice. But he can still pitch. For the Red Sox last season he won 15 games. One complication is he has expressed an interest in ending his career in California and there's a longstanding rumor that he's headed to the Padres for outfielder Dave Roberts in a deal that also could include reliever Akinori Otsuka.
• Mark Redman, Pirates. General manager Dave Littlefield is apparently willing to listen to offers for any of his veteran - which is to say, more expensive - starters. Redman made $4.5 million to go 5-15 last season but that might have had something to do with having the second-lowest run support (3.23) of any pitcher in the majors. He's only 31 years old, had a 4.90 ERA and allowed a respectable 188 hits in 178 1/3 innings.
Pirates GM Dave Littlefield has been in touch with the Rangers about Blalock, but he has emphatically refused to part with starter Oliver Perez to consummate a deal.
The Milwaukee Brewers delegation embarking this morning for Dallas isn't anticipating trading first baseman Lyle Overbay at baseball's winter meetings. There have been all kinds of rumors thus far involving Overbay, involving suitors such as Boston and Toronto. San Francisco, the Los Angeles Angels and Baltimore are thought to have interest as well. Asked of the likelihood of trading Overbay, and thus making way for the organization's top prospect, Prince Fielder, general manager Doug Melvin didn't have a good guess. "We don't know," he said. "Right now, we're not motivated to do it. But you can't ever close the door to it.
Toronto's biggest achievement at these meetings could be its ability to remake a batting order that was among the most power-deprived in the majors last season. Look for the names of Texas Rangers outfielder Kevin Mench and Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Lyle Overbay to keep coming up this week as the Jays engage in talks on both.
Did You Know? Look for first-time arbitration-eligible starter Dontrelle Willis to be the Marlins highest paid player in 2006 at around $4 million. The second-highest outlay conceivably could go to Tigers catcher Pudge Rodriguez. The Marlins owe him a $2 million deferral payment to complete the one-year, $10 million contract he signed in 2003.
The fate of their outgoing centerfielder, Bernie Williams, also could be decided this week. The Yankees have until Wednesday to decide whether to offer arbitration. If they do not, they will not be able to negotiate with him until May. The two sides have not begun negotiations yet.
Cards GM Walt Jocketty added that he has received no indication of when free agent pitcher A.J. Burnett will accept or reject the club's four-year offer. The Cardinals, according to a club source, will not guarantee a fifth year to their proposal, which averages about $10 million a season with an option for 2010.
Which should significantly increase trade interest in Rays shortstop Julio Lugo , especially from Rafael Furcal's old team, the Braves. Though rumors already swirled in the lobby of the Wyndham Anatole about potential deals involving Lugo (including some three-way combinations), Friedman said he did not expect serious talk to begin until today. There has been interest in several other Rays, including closer Danys Baez , first baseman/outfielder Aubrey Huff (including the Cubs, Orioles and Mariners), outfielder Joey Gathright (Marlins, Dodgers, Rangers and others) and outfielder Jonny Gomes (A's).
Dolphins owner Wayne Huizenga told WFOR-4, ''We have offered the Marlins a lot,'' in negotiations to build a baseball stadium on Huizenga-owned land next to Dolphins Stadium. The Marlins have said there's still a funding gap of at least $80 million. ''At the appropriate time, shortly, we'll talk about what we've agreed to do,'' Huizenga said.
The Twins are in Dallas for the annual winter meetings looking for a designated hitter. They might end up having to find one from within, and there already seems to be an internal candidate — Michael Cuddyer. General manager Terry Ryan's priorities entering the start of the winter meetings today are to acquire a third baseman and designated hitter, but the available free-agent power hitters are an aging, relatively unimpressive group. And the chances of landing a power hitter via trade do not look promising for the Twins, who could make another run at trying to acquire Texas Rangers all-star third baseman Hank Blalock.
After gritty White Sox center fielder Aaron Rowand was sent to Philadelphia, there seemed to be an obvious need for an outside replacement such as the Florida Marlins’ Juan Pierre or the Tampa Bay Devil Rays’ Joey Gathright. Both are relatively affordable and long on speed, a skill that’s very attractive to Guillen. But the White Sox, and particularly Williams, feel 23-year-old Brian Anderson is ready to assume the starting job in center field.
Cubs GM Jim Hendry also was asked if he had interest in Johnny Damon, the free-agent center fielder from the Boston Red Sox. He replied that Damon’s agent, Scott Boras, no doubt would contact him this week, but it doesn’t appear that the Cubs will be aggressive suitors for Damon at this point.
The Cubs may explore a trade with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays to bring shortstop Julio Lugo and possibly outfielder Aubrey Huff to Chicago.
Did You Know? The annual salary of $13 million would make Rafael Furcal the second-highest paid shortstop in baseball — behind Yankees six-time All-Star Derek Jeter, who makes nearly $20 million, and ahead of Baltimore's Miguel Tejada ($11 million).
Outfielder Lastings Milledge, the Mets No. 1 prospect, is "highly unlikely" to be traded, one team source recently said. However, if GM Omar Minaya completes his quest to land Manny Ramirez this week, Boston will almost certainly want Milledge as part of the package. Aaron Heilman is no longer considered a prospect by Baseball America because of his major-league service time, but he's also considered to be nearly untouchable.
When the Los Angeles Dodgers traded catcher Paul Lo Duca to the Marlins 17 months ago, he wept. When the Marlins traded Lo Duca to the New York Mets on Sunday, his uncle in New York cried. ''Everyone is so excited,'' said Lo Duca, a Brooklyn native who grew up in Arizona. ``It's exciting because my family wanted me to go to Arizona, but the second-best place was to go to New York. I'm excited. It's a team I grew up liking.'' ''I'm going to miss South Florida. The fans were great for me,'' said Lo Duca, who homered on the first pitch he saw in Florida. ``I know [the trade] is something they didn't want to do, but they had to. Their hands were tied. I think the Marlins are going to be fine. ``They have a lot of good, young players. Knowing [owner] Jeffrey Loria, he's a competitor. He wants to win. It's probably killing him inside. But not getting a stadium deal, it's a stadium decision.'' ''I played in L.A., which I would call New York Jr. with the media,'' Lo Duca said. ``It's fine.''
There has been speculation that Wisconsin native Jarrod Washburn, now a free agent after pitching for the Angels for eight seasons, would be interested in joining the Brewers. But Melvin does not expect to be in the bidding for any of the top pitchers, especially after the market for relievers went nuts. "If (Tomo) Ohka was on the market, we'd probably have to give him three years," said Melvin, referring to his arbitration-eligible starting pitcher.
The Astros have considered trades for offense — sources say they had an interest in Texas Rangers outfielder Kevin Mench — but have been unwilling to part with the pitching many clubs want. Righthander Brandon Backe has come up in trade talks, but until the Astros know what Clemens is going to do, they are reluctant to trade a starter.
Could Cubs GM Jim Hendry be in the market for Florida's A.J. Burnett? The most coveted of the free-agent starters is young and has a golden arm, but he has been injured, has a record close to .500 and will take five years and at least $50 million to sign. "Possibly," Hendry replied when asked if he might seek a starter. "We're happy with the depth of our pen. In the right situation, I wouldn't say no to a starter." Most likely, Hendry wouldn't say no to anyone who had talent available at almost any position except reliever, first base and third base.
Cubs GM Jim Hendry's Plan B appears to be center fielder Juan Pierre of Florida, but that will take young talent because the Marlins are downsizing payroll. Actually, it will take a ton of young talent because Pierre has become a darling of several teams. The leadoff hitter could come from another position, though that would be tough.
The Red Sox could use a second baseman. They are considering trading disgruntled left fielder Manny Ramirez. Even though he's not a pitcher, Ramirez might cause the Rangers to pause for consideration – if Boston was willing to eat significant portions of the nearly $60 million left on Ramirez's contract. That probably won't happen. The Rangers did conduct a fact-finding call with Boston on Friday. If the Red Sox are willing to deal Matt Clement or Bronson Arroyo, the situation might get more interesting.
The Orioles haven't been bystanders this offseason, but they haven't landed anyone yet, and a thin crop is getting thinner. Fans are beginning to wonder whether Syd Thrift's proclamation of having "Confederate money" a few years ago rings true in December 2005. Although they've missed out on some of the bigger names, it's hard to believe the Orioles won't make any additions to the club. The jury is out on whether those moves will have any significance, though.
The Rangers, desperate as usual for pitching of all types, are shopping outfielder Kevin Mench, a player the Pirates inquired about late last year when they were in hot pursuit of center fielder Laynce Nix. Mench, 27, has 68 home runs in three-plus seasons -- and is first-time arbitration-eligible this winter. The return for Mench would have to be a premier talent, as several teams are eager to get him.
By acquiring Paul Lo Duca, who is scheduled to make $12.5 million over the next two seasons, instead of signing Molina or Hernandez, the Mets will probably save about $2 million per year. It will allow them to use the saved money on other needs: signing a second baseman like Tony Graffanino or Mark Grudzielanek; acquiring relief help like Ricardo Rincon, Joey Eischen or Julian Tavarez; or paying some of pitcher Javier Vazquez's salary if General Manager Omar Minaya is able to make a trade with Arizona for him. And, of course, the Red Sox are looking to trade slugger Manny Ramirez.
Baltimore also has interest in catchers Bengie Molina and Ramon Hernandez, but neither is a priority. "I think we're still in the [free agent] market, but it's running high," Flanagan said.
Washington has been in constant contact with the agent for A.J. Burnett, the hard-throwing right-hander who, despite a career record of 49-50, is considered the prize of the starting pitching class. Darek Braunecker, Burnett's agent, has said the Nationals are in the running. The theory is that Washington can take the $10 million it would have spent annually on Loaiza and Carrasco and turn it into an offer for Burnett. But that won't happen until Tavares gets a final budget from MLB. Washington has not yet made an offer.
It's possible, but not likely, that Mets GM Omar Minaya might turn around and send Paul Lo Duca to Arizona as part of a package for Javier Vazquez and then sign either Hernandez or Molina. Vazquez has demanded a trade, exercising his right as a player traded in the middle of the multiyear deal he signed after being traded to the Yankees in December 2003. And the Mets are more than a little interested. Minaya was Vazquez's GM when both were with the Montreal Expos.
The A's would love to sign free agent Frank Thomas, and there's a simple reason they won't formally offer the Big Hurt a contract before Wednesday -- they can't stand losing compensatory draft picks. The White Sox won't offer arbitration to Thomas after re-signing Paul Konerko and trading for Jim Thome. So once the Wednesday deadline passes, and there's no longer an issue of losing draft picks
Finding a right fielder The Cubs would prefer that he be left-handed and a power hitter. Wow, that's a tough one. Be assured this will cost the Cubs Todd Walker and at least a couple of young pitchers like Jerome Williams and Sergio Mitre, perhaps even a young position player like Cedeno. Maybe this is the right time to acquire a player Hendry has desired for years, the Mets' Cliff Floyd, who is a Chicago native. "We have a lot of good guys to deal if we want to," Hendry said.
Indians GM Mark Shapiro would not comment on Saturday's visit with closer Trevor Hoffman. Shapiro and manager Eric Wedge met with Hoffman at his home in Del Mar, Calif. "From what I heard the meeting went extremely well," said Josh Goldberg of Beverly Hills Sports Council, the agency that represents Hoffman. Rick Thurman, Hoffman's agent, was scheduled to meet with the Indians on Sunday night or this morning to talk money. Hoffman saved 43 games last season for San Diego. "I'm not going to comment," said Shapiro, when asked about Hoffman. "Let's just say we've arranged meetings with every agent we need to talk to about the players we're interested in."
Chicago has interest in Mench and may become more involved with Soriano now that they've lost free-agent target Rafael Furcal to Los Angeles. The Cubs have some young pitching available, including Jerome Williams. A real wild-card possibility might be a huge deal that involves Irving's immensely talented – but oft-injured – Kerry Wood.
If the Jays fail to land Burnett, they would still have the potential to get in on the expected trade bonanza for Oakland A's left-hander Barry Zito, who could wind up being the showstopper of the meetings. With one season to go until free agency, Zito will almost certainly require a multi-year package from any team he is traded to and the Jays, if Burnett spurns their overtures, will be flush with enough cash to make a tempting proposal.
The Mets were linked to Sammy Sosa over the weekend in the Dominican Republic — where some officials traveled last week. Sosa is reportedly negotiating with several teams, and he was a target of Minaya last winter.
Phillies GM Pat Gillick is keeping the contents to himself. It's known, however, that he would prefer to add a lefthander to balance out a rotation that figures to be all righthanded until Randy Wolf returns from reconstructive elbow surgery sometime after the All-Star break. And that narrows the field of candidates considerably. Of course, the Phillies will ask about Dontrelle Willis and Barry Zito. It's unlikely that either will be available, however.
Which brings us to another player the A's are targeting: Dodgers outfielder Milton Bradley. Ned Colletti, the Dodgers' GM, says he wants character guys, and Bradley is no Marquis Grissom. Colletti is making Bradley available, and sources in Dallas confirmed Sunday night that the A's are in hot pursuit. The A's, deep in starting pitching, could offer Kirk Saarloos or lefty Joe Kennedy in a package. To part with Barry Zito -- not a necessity, Beane said -- the A's would need more of a sure thing.
The Reds also are willing to part with one of their four outfielders: Ken Griffey Jr., Austin Kearns, Wily Mo Pena and 40-home-run man Adam Dunn. Dunn could net $9 million in arbitration this year and would be a free agent next winter. Pena, an exceptional raw talent the Pirates long have admired, would cost plenty in trade terms.
The Dodgers power hitter could be a second-tier free-agent outfielder such as Jeromy Burnitz, Reggie Sanders, Jacque Jones or Preston Wilson. The third baseman is expected to be Bill Mueller or Joe Randa. Both would be relatively inexpensive and the Dodgers would offer a short-term deal because top prospect Andy LaRoche is expected to be ready by 2007. Free agent Nomar Garciaparra has expressed a willingness to play third base and was a favorite of former general manager Paul DePodesta, but Colletti has concerns about his health — especially with so many current Dodgers coming off injuries. The Dodgers have extended offers to several starting pitchers, including Matt Morris. "We've talked to a lot of teams and have focused in on a select group of free agents," Colletti said.
On The Reds Most Likely To Go List, place outfielders Wily Mo Pena and Austin Kearns at the top. But there could be others, if GM Dan O'Brien believes Ken Griffey or Adam Dunn or Sean Casey or anybody else will bring over-the-top pitching. For example, Oakland is willing to trade Barry Zito for a power-hitting outfielder. Dunn? Kearns? Kearns and Pena?
Brewers GM Doug Melvin also is willing to trade Russell Branyan for a reliever, and has received inquiries about him.
Baltimore most likely will try to improve through trades. One team official said the team has some interest in Florida Marlins center fielder Juan Pierre but no serious talks have taken place. The Texas Rangers' Adrian Gonzalez could fill the void at first base, but talks are just in the initial stages. Baltimore seems willing to explore all options, even trading young players such as starter Erik Bedard and reliever Jorge Julio. The Orioles have been linked with Philadelphia outfielder Bobby Abreu, but it likely would take Bedard and another player to acquire the slugger. Baltimore may balk at such a price.
Atlanta needs a proven closer, either from the thinning ranks of free agents — Trevor Hoffman, Todd Jones and Bob Wickman remain from that list — or through a trade. Possible trade targets include Tampa Bay's Danys Baez, Toronto's Miguel Batista and possibly Houston's Brad Lidge, if the Astros are serious about entertaining offers for the All-Star who saved 42 games and recorded 103 strikeouts before struggling in the postseason.
Cincinnati first baseman Sean Casey, an Upper St. Clair native, is available. He is due $8.5 million next year, a figure the Pirates could afford, but the Reds covet a young arm in return. That might be more than the Pirates will want to give up for a player who can be a free agent next winter.
With no top-notch catching prospect ready to make the jump to the majors, re-signing Brad Ausmus is a priority. Ausmus said last week the Astros and San Diego Padres remain his favorites, but his agent has made contact with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Agent Scott Boras and Johnny Damon evidently did not make a stealth visit to the Hotel Commonwealth in Kenmore Square last Friday, as reported in Sunday's Boston Herald. According to the Herald, there were ''strong indications" Damon and his wife, Michelle, accompanied Boras in face-to-face contract negotiations with Lucchino during the weekend. The paper also reported ''the Damons, Boras, Lucchino, and the Sox official's wife were seen leaving an executive conference room at the Hotel Commonwealth in Kenmore Square on Friday night in good spirits, which provided a clear indication that the Sox are making a sincere effort to re-sign Damon before the end of baseball's annual winter meetings." Lucchino, in an e-mail exchange last night, labeled the Herald article ''100 percent false," adding that the club had ''no meetings with Scott in Boston last week." ''The report was completely and utterly wrong."
Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd will arrive at the Anatole today for this year's rendition of the winter meetings without any expectation of grabbing national attention. He figures to sign 39-year-old Jose Mesa to fill out the bullpen, hopes to work out the details of a multiyear contract for closer Brian Fuentes and would like to make a trade to add a catcher, probably Yorvit Torrealba from the Seattle Mariners or Josh Bard from the Cleveland Indians. The primary search is for pitching help. They think Mesa, a closer in Pittsburgh the past two years, will be a solid right-handed setup man for closer Fuentes, but they also would like a left-handed reliever. They have looked at rotation candidates but seem willing to give Sunny Kim an opportunity in the rotation instead of overspending on a journeyman.
It's not entirely beyond the realm of possibility that Dan Kolb could return to the Brewers before spring. After a disastrous year with Atlanta (3-8, 5.93 earned run average, 11 for 18 in save opportunities), he almost certainly will not be tendered a contract by the Dec. 20 deadline. Once cut loose, Kolb would be free to sign with any club. He still has a home in Union Grove and did his best work ever under Brewers pitching coach Mike Maddux.
Trading expensive pitcher Odalis Perez, troubled outfielder Milton Bradley and backup catcher Jason Phillips would free up additional money. But the Dodgers are reluctant to trade the prospects that figure into the team's future beyond 2006.
Washington's primary chip in a trade is outfielder-first baseman Brad Wilkerson, who clubs value because of his versatility and ability to get on base. Wilkerson, who made $3.05 million in 2005, is eligible for arbitration, and with Boras as his agent, it's possible negotiations could be difficult. The Chicago Cubs are among the teams that have interest in Wilkerson, who hit leadoff for Washington last year but who most club officials feel would be better-suited for the middle of a the lineup.
The Braves hoped they wouldn't have to replace Rafael Furcal, but knew there was a strong possibility and already had some discussions with Tampa Bay about shortstop Julio Lugo. He comes with baggage — arrested and charged with assaulting his wife in 2003. He had his best season in 2005 (.295, 57 RBIs, 39 steals, .362 on-base percentage) and is under contract only for 2006 at $4.95 million. A one-year commitment is attractive to the Braves, who have shortstop prospects rising in their organization. Kansas City's Angel Berroa (36 homers, 171 RBIs in the past three seasons) also has drawn interest from Atlanta. "We always go into these meetings feeling we'll be able to advance the ball," Schuerholz said.
The Mariners are believed to have interest in obtaining Carl Pavano from the Yankees, but the latest word from New York is that the Yankees aren't looking to trade him despite a disappointing season. Pavano, for whom Seattle made a strong bid as a free agent last year, still has three years and $30 million left on his contract. The Yankees are looking for a center fielder, and Jeremy Reed could be a fit for them.
The Indians also met with Nomar Garciaparra's representatives Sunday night. The Indians think Garciaparra could help them at first base, third base and in right field.
Angels GM Bill Stoneman could explore deals for Kansas City first baseman Mike Sweeney, Arizona third baseman Troy Glaus, Seattle third baseman Adrian Beltre or Soriano. Nomar Garciaparra, Reggie Sanders, Preston Wilson, Rondell White and Frank Thomas could pique the Angels' interest. Stoneman has informed the agent for Mike Piazza that the Angels are not interested in the former Met catcher right now.
The Angels are reluctant to part with pitcher Ervin Santana or top power prospect Brandon Wood, who have come up in talks with the Red Sox about Manny Ramirez. Wood, a shortstop, hit 43 home runs in the minors last season. Ramirez, who hit .300 with 88 home runs and 274 runs batted in over the last two seasons, is owed $57 million over the next three seasons, though $12 million is deferred over a 16-year period beginning in 2011. Any deal with the Angels would require the Red Sox to assume salary in the form of first baseman Darin Erstad ($8.5 million), center fielder Steve Finley ($7 million) and perhaps second baseman Adam Kennedy ($3.35 million). But if the teams can agree on the players — it might take a three-team deal — the Angels won't let Ramirez's quirky personality block their path.
Unless the Marlins are prepared to open the campaign with a duo of Matt Treanor and converted catcher/outfielder Josh Willingham, they'll seek Lo Duca's replacement via free agency or trade, and may give former Yankee John Flaherty a look. Yorvit Torrealba (Mariners) and Josh Bard (Indians) also are being shopped. Former Marlin Charles Johnson, currently out of baseball, is another low-budget alternative.
Baltimore is still considering an offer to Cubs free agent shortstop Nomar Garciaparra to play first base, but he is not expected to sign with any team until late in the offseason. Garciaparra, who has missed significant time the past two seasons with injuries, may eventually get a lengthy contract offer the Orioles think is too risky to match.
The Giants want a productive left-handed hitter , but Brian Sabean's priority at the meetings is finding a starting pitcher. He'll get a better read on Matt Morris through agent Barry Axelrod and would prefer to wait until after Wednesday's deadline to sign a free agent.
The Yankees also are expected to have more talks with the Phillies about Jason Michaels, who became expendable once Philadelphia acquired Aaron Rowand from the White Sox. They also have spoken internally about pursuing free-agent outfielder Juan Encarnacion.
The Royals have long coveted Kevin Mench, but unless the Rangers can get former No. 1 pick Zack Greinke from Kansas City, these talks probably aren't going anywhere. If the Rangers deal Mench, they want somebody who can assume an immediate role of prominence in the rotation.
Once the Dec. 7 date for offering arbitration to free agents passes, the Royals could complete deals with pitcher Elmer Dessens, who turns 35 in January, and backup catcher Todd Pratt, who will be 39 when the season starts. Because of the weak free-agent class, the Royals — nor other teams — aren’t exactly pursuing baseball’s crème de la crème. Among the Royals’ potential targets: outfielder Reggie Sanders, pitchers Kenny Rogers and Matt Morris, and second baseman Tony Graffanino, a former Royal.
Two other marquee free agents, pitcher Kevin Millwood and center fielder Johnny Damon, play positions of need for Baltimore, but they are represented by agent Scott Boras, who has not begun serious negotiations with any teams. "It's not been time for him to grab center stage," Flanagan jokingly said of Boras. "Maybe in February."
Nats GM Jim Bowden has also been in touch with agent Scott Boras about his stable of pitchers, which includes Kevin Millwood, Jarrod Washburn and Kenny Rogers. Bowden will almost certainly discuss all three this week. Another target is former St. Louis stalwart Matt Morris, who has never had a losing season in his eight-year career.
Here's a look at some other lefthanded starters who, according to various baseball sources, could be available.
• Erik Bedard, Orioles. Plenty of teams are asking about this 26-year-old (along with righties Daniel Cabrera and Hayden Penn). General manager Mike Flanagan almost has to listen since he's looking for a power-hitting first baseman, starting leftfielder and centerfielder and a backup catcher. If he's going to deal a lefty, though, he would rather move former No. 1 draft pick Adam Loewen. He also would be willing to throw in relievers Jorge Julio and/or Steve Kline.
Bedard was 5-1, 2.08 in the first 6 weeks of the season, missed 2 months with a strained left knee and won just once in his last 15 starts.
• Odalis Perez, Dodgers. After reaching an agreement to sign free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal, new Los Angeles general manager Ned Colletti would love to add a big bat to the middle of his lineup. The Dodgers also have a stockpile of prospects including pitchers Chad Billingsley, Chuck Tiffany, Jonathon Broxton, Justin Orenduff and Edwin Jackson.
Perez had a disappointing season after a 3.26 earned run average in 2004 convinced former general manager Paul DePodesta to give him a big contract extension. He was 7-8, 4.56 and was also on the disabled list twice. On the plus side, he's still just 28.
• David Wells, Boston. He's old (42). He's fat (listed at 250 pounds). He'll probably go on the disabled list at least once and say something stupid at least twice. But he can still pitch. For the Red Sox last season he won 15 games. One complication is he has expressed an interest in ending his career in California and there's a longstanding rumor that he's headed to the Padres for outfielder Dave Roberts in a deal that also could include reliever Akinori Otsuka.
• Mark Redman, Pirates. General manager Dave Littlefield is apparently willing to listen to offers for any of his veteran - which is to say, more expensive - starters. Redman made $4.5 million to go 5-15 last season but that might have had something to do with having the second-lowest run support (3.23) of any pitcher in the majors. He's only 31 years old, had a 4.90 ERA and allowed a respectable 188 hits in 178 1/3 innings.
Pirates GM Dave Littlefield has been in touch with the Rangers about Blalock, but he has emphatically refused to part with starter Oliver Perez to consummate a deal.
The Milwaukee Brewers delegation embarking this morning for Dallas isn't anticipating trading first baseman Lyle Overbay at baseball's winter meetings. There have been all kinds of rumors thus far involving Overbay, involving suitors such as Boston and Toronto. San Francisco, the Los Angeles Angels and Baltimore are thought to have interest as well. Asked of the likelihood of trading Overbay, and thus making way for the organization's top prospect, Prince Fielder, general manager Doug Melvin didn't have a good guess. "We don't know," he said. "Right now, we're not motivated to do it. But you can't ever close the door to it.
Toronto's biggest achievement at these meetings could be its ability to remake a batting order that was among the most power-deprived in the majors last season. Look for the names of Texas Rangers outfielder Kevin Mench and Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Lyle Overbay to keep coming up this week as the Jays engage in talks on both.
Did You Know? Look for first-time arbitration-eligible starter Dontrelle Willis to be the Marlins highest paid player in 2006 at around $4 million. The second-highest outlay conceivably could go to Tigers catcher Pudge Rodriguez. The Marlins owe him a $2 million deferral payment to complete the one-year, $10 million contract he signed in 2003.
The fate of their outgoing centerfielder, Bernie Williams, also could be decided this week. The Yankees have until Wednesday to decide whether to offer arbitration. If they do not, they will not be able to negotiate with him until May. The two sides have not begun negotiations yet.
Cards GM Walt Jocketty added that he has received no indication of when free agent pitcher A.J. Burnett will accept or reject the club's four-year offer. The Cardinals, according to a club source, will not guarantee a fifth year to their proposal, which averages about $10 million a season with an option for 2010.
Which should significantly increase trade interest in Rays shortstop Julio Lugo , especially from Rafael Furcal's old team, the Braves. Though rumors already swirled in the lobby of the Wyndham Anatole about potential deals involving Lugo (including some three-way combinations), Friedman said he did not expect serious talk to begin until today. There has been interest in several other Rays, including closer Danys Baez , first baseman/outfielder Aubrey Huff (including the Cubs, Orioles and Mariners), outfielder Joey Gathright (Marlins, Dodgers, Rangers and others) and outfielder Jonny Gomes (A's).
Dolphins owner Wayne Huizenga told WFOR-4, ''We have offered the Marlins a lot,'' in negotiations to build a baseball stadium on Huizenga-owned land next to Dolphins Stadium. The Marlins have said there's still a funding gap of at least $80 million. ''At the appropriate time, shortly, we'll talk about what we've agreed to do,'' Huizenga said.
The Twins are in Dallas for the annual winter meetings looking for a designated hitter. They might end up having to find one from within, and there already seems to be an internal candidate — Michael Cuddyer. General manager Terry Ryan's priorities entering the start of the winter meetings today are to acquire a third baseman and designated hitter, but the available free-agent power hitters are an aging, relatively unimpressive group. And the chances of landing a power hitter via trade do not look promising for the Twins, who could make another run at trying to acquire Texas Rangers all-star third baseman Hank Blalock.
After gritty White Sox center fielder Aaron Rowand was sent to Philadelphia, there seemed to be an obvious need for an outside replacement such as the Florida Marlins’ Juan Pierre or the Tampa Bay Devil Rays’ Joey Gathright. Both are relatively affordable and long on speed, a skill that’s very attractive to Guillen. But the White Sox, and particularly Williams, feel 23-year-old Brian Anderson is ready to assume the starting job in center field.
Cubs GM Jim Hendry also was asked if he had interest in Johnny Damon, the free-agent center fielder from the Boston Red Sox. He replied that Damon’s agent, Scott Boras, no doubt would contact him this week, but it doesn’t appear that the Cubs will be aggressive suitors for Damon at this point.
The Cubs may explore a trade with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays to bring shortstop Julio Lugo and possibly outfielder Aubrey Huff to Chicago.
Did You Know? The annual salary of $13 million would make Rafael Furcal the second-highest paid shortstop in baseball — behind Yankees six-time All-Star Derek Jeter, who makes nearly $20 million, and ahead of Baltimore's Miguel Tejada ($11 million).
Outfielder Lastings Milledge, the Mets No. 1 prospect, is "highly unlikely" to be traded, one team source recently said. However, if GM Omar Minaya completes his quest to land Manny Ramirez this week, Boston will almost certainly want Milledge as part of the package. Aaron Heilman is no longer considered a prospect by Baseball America because of his major-league service time, but he's also considered to be nearly untouchable.
When the Los Angeles Dodgers traded catcher Paul Lo Duca to the Marlins 17 months ago, he wept. When the Marlins traded Lo Duca to the New York Mets on Sunday, his uncle in New York cried. ''Everyone is so excited,'' said Lo Duca, a Brooklyn native who grew up in Arizona. ``It's exciting because my family wanted me to go to Arizona, but the second-best place was to go to New York. I'm excited. It's a team I grew up liking.'' ''I'm going to miss South Florida. The fans were great for me,'' said Lo Duca, who homered on the first pitch he saw in Florida. ``I know [the trade] is something they didn't want to do, but they had to. Their hands were tied. I think the Marlins are going to be fine. ``They have a lot of good, young players. Knowing [owner] Jeffrey Loria, he's a competitor. He wants to win. It's probably killing him inside. But not getting a stadium deal, it's a stadium decision.'' ''I played in L.A., which I would call New York Jr. with the media,'' Lo Duca said. ``It's fine.''
There has been speculation that Wisconsin native Jarrod Washburn, now a free agent after pitching for the Angels for eight seasons, would be interested in joining the Brewers. But Melvin does not expect to be in the bidding for any of the top pitchers, especially after the market for relievers went nuts. "If (Tomo) Ohka was on the market, we'd probably have to give him three years," said Melvin, referring to his arbitration-eligible starting pitcher.
The Astros have considered trades for offense — sources say they had an interest in Texas Rangers outfielder Kevin Mench — but have been unwilling to part with the pitching many clubs want. Righthander Brandon Backe has come up in trade talks, but until the Astros know what Clemens is going to do, they are reluctant to trade a starter.
Could Cubs GM Jim Hendry be in the market for Florida's A.J. Burnett? The most coveted of the free-agent starters is young and has a golden arm, but he has been injured, has a record close to .500 and will take five years and at least $50 million to sign. "Possibly," Hendry replied when asked if he might seek a starter. "We're happy with the depth of our pen. In the right situation, I wouldn't say no to a starter." Most likely, Hendry wouldn't say no to anyone who had talent available at almost any position except reliever, first base and third base.
Cubs GM Jim Hendry's Plan B appears to be center fielder Juan Pierre of Florida, but that will take young talent because the Marlins are downsizing payroll. Actually, it will take a ton of young talent because Pierre has become a darling of several teams. The leadoff hitter could come from another position, though that would be tough.
The Red Sox could use a second baseman. They are considering trading disgruntled left fielder Manny Ramirez. Even though he's not a pitcher, Ramirez might cause the Rangers to pause for consideration – if Boston was willing to eat significant portions of the nearly $60 million left on Ramirez's contract. That probably won't happen. The Rangers did conduct a fact-finding call with Boston on Friday. If the Red Sox are willing to deal Matt Clement or Bronson Arroyo, the situation might get more interesting.
The Orioles haven't been bystanders this offseason, but they haven't landed anyone yet, and a thin crop is getting thinner. Fans are beginning to wonder whether Syd Thrift's proclamation of having "Confederate money" a few years ago rings true in December 2005. Although they've missed out on some of the bigger names, it's hard to believe the Orioles won't make any additions to the club. The jury is out on whether those moves will have any significance, though.
The Rangers, desperate as usual for pitching of all types, are shopping outfielder Kevin Mench, a player the Pirates inquired about late last year when they were in hot pursuit of center fielder Laynce Nix. Mench, 27, has 68 home runs in three-plus seasons -- and is first-time arbitration-eligible this winter. The return for Mench would have to be a premier talent, as several teams are eager to get him.
By acquiring Paul Lo Duca, who is scheduled to make $12.5 million over the next two seasons, instead of signing Molina or Hernandez, the Mets will probably save about $2 million per year. It will allow them to use the saved money on other needs: signing a second baseman like Tony Graffanino or Mark Grudzielanek; acquiring relief help like Ricardo Rincon, Joey Eischen or Julian Tavarez; or paying some of pitcher Javier Vazquez's salary if General Manager Omar Minaya is able to make a trade with Arizona for him. And, of course, the Red Sox are looking to trade slugger Manny Ramirez.
Baltimore also has interest in catchers Bengie Molina and Ramon Hernandez, but neither is a priority. "I think we're still in the [free agent] market, but it's running high," Flanagan said.
Washington has been in constant contact with the agent for A.J. Burnett, the hard-throwing right-hander who, despite a career record of 49-50, is considered the prize of the starting pitching class. Darek Braunecker, Burnett's agent, has said the Nationals are in the running. The theory is that Washington can take the $10 million it would have spent annually on Loaiza and Carrasco and turn it into an offer for Burnett. But that won't happen until Tavares gets a final budget from MLB. Washington has not yet made an offer.
