The Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers have met at least twice this week at the Wyndham Anatole Hotel, and are expected to meet again today. The teams have discussed a deal that would send rightfielder Bobby Abreu and possibly third baseman David Bell to the Dodgers for Derek Lowe or Brad Penny, both pitchers. "We've got one trade talk going that could be a higher-level guy" for the rotation, but most of the deals "would be lower-level," the Phils' general manager said. There are hurdles to clear before the trade with the Dodgers could happen. First, Lowe and Penny are at the beginning of lucrative multiyear contracts, and the salaries might be too high for the Phillies to afford. Second, Gillick indicated it was unlikely Abreu would be traded, because the Phils couldn't get enough in return. And third, any trade would be subject to Abreu's approval.
The Orioles were scheduled to talk with about 10 teams yesterday, and according to one source, there was plenty of conversation with the Cincinnati Reds, who are at least listening to offers for slugger Adam Dunn. The Reds, according to the source, are apparently seeking a package that includes left-hander Erik Bedard. One Orioles official confirmed that the club is extremely interested in Dunn, a left fielder who has hit 40 or more home runs in each of the past two seasons, but "it's going to be tough to pry him away" from Cincinnati. The Orioles would prefer not trading Bedard, 25, especially when they have to yet to make any additions to their starting rotation this offseason.
Red Sox GM Johnny Damon suggested in a phone interview with Newsday that he'd be happy to do the once-unthinkable and bolt for the short-haired, straight-laced arch-enemy Yankees. Damon, a natural for the biggest stage, actually seemed as excited about the possibility of becoming a Yankee as he was annoyed about his slow-moving negotiations with Boston. And he seemed quite annoyed. "I think New York's a great city," Damon said. Damon also thinks the Yankees have a great team, and he's thought about joining them. "I have," he said. "That's a lineup people dream about. It would be one of the best lineups we've seen in a long time."
The Braves are working on a major three-team trade that would bring Boston shortstop Edgar Renteria to Atlanta, two persons familiar with negotiations said Tuesday. The Braves would send a top prospect, likely third baseman Andy Marte, to Tampa Bay, and the Devil Rays would send shortstop Julio Lugo to the Red Sox in the deal, which was characterized as "percolating" late Tuesday by a person familiar with the talks. The Braves also discussed a three-team deal with Colorado and Tampa Bay that would bring Lugo to Atlanta and send catcher Johnny Estrada to the Rockies, but those negotiations cooled Tuesday as the other trade talks began heating up. The Braves and Devil Rays recently discussed a multi-player trade that involved Lugo and Tampa Bay closer Danys Baez, but the Braves were unwilling to part with catcher Brian McCann along with Marte, a person familiar with those negotiations said.
The Marlins were on the verge of a trade that would send center fielder Juan Pierre to the Chicago Cubs, most likely for a package of three minor-league pitchers. A contingent of Chicago and Florida writers gathered in the media room of the Wyndham Anatole, site of baseball's winter meetings, expecting an announcement of the deal early Wednesday. But a call came just after midnight local time indicating that the deal was not likely to be finished until later this morning. Pierre, who made $3.7 million last season in the final year of his contract, is eligible for arbitration this winter after hitting .276, his worst average in three seasons with Florida.
The Angels had conversations Tuesday with the Boston Red Sox about slugger Manny Ramirez and the Kansas City Royals about first baseman Mike Sweeney, but their pursuit of a middle-of-the-order bat to bolster their inconsistent offense seems to have stalled. The Royals, according to a source, offered Sweeney to the Angels and asked for first-base prospect Casey Kotchman and minor league shortstop Brandon Wood, the team's top power-hitting prospect.
Arguably the most celebrated prospect in Padres history appears headed to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. The Padres last night were finalizing the trade of third baseman Sean Burroughs for Tampa Bay pitcher Dewon Brazelton, a right-hander who was the Devil Rays' Opening Day starter in 2005, then proceeded to vanish mysteriously from the team for three weeks and finished with a 1-8 record and 7.61 ERA.
The Twins also continue to monitor the free-agent market. GM Terry Ryan is scheduled to meet today with free-agent slugger Mike Piazza's agent, Danny Lozano, about the potential of the perennial all-star filling Minnesota's void at DH. Four teams, including the Los Angeles Angels, are interested in Piazza. Piazza, 37, has spent his entire career in the National League and is interested in being a DH. Ryan acknowledged having a discussion with Lozano on Tuesday, but he did that in response to a reporter's question regarding another of the agent's clients — free-agent right fielder and longtime Twin Jacque Jones.
Baltimore is still interested in free agent pitchers Jarrod Washburn and Kevin Millwood, but haven't met with agent Scott Boras and weren't scheduled to do so as of early Tuesday evening. The Orioles, according to one source, are interested in Kenny Rogers, also a Boras client. Another possible Orioles target, according to the source, is Minnesota Twins pitcher Kyle Lohse. One team source said the Orioles still have some interest in New York Mets pitcher Kris Benson.
Mariners officials spoke with Carl Everett, the mercurial switch-hitting outfielder, and engaged in substantive talks that could help plug their punchless lineup. Everett, 34, earned $4 million with the Chicago White Sox this year, and is in line for a short-term contract of similar value after hitting .251 with 23 home runs and 87 RBIs during the team's title run. Though not on a par with Carlos Delgado or Brian Giles -- other names linked to the Mariners' pursuit of left-handed power, and now off the market -- Everett could cross that line off the club's offseason wish list.
The Dodgers are actively engaged in talks with Texas about a possible trade for Rangers second baseman Alfonso Soriano, but it isn't clear where he would fit. Any such deal likely would include Dodgers pitching prospect Jonathan Broxton, who made his major-league debut last season.
The Orioles according to one high-level team source, were close to signing free agent catcher Ramon Hernandez to what is believed to be a three-year deal. The acquisition of Hernandez, which the source said could happen Wednesday, would mean Javy Lopez would split time at first base and designated hitter. Hernandez, who hit .290 with 12 home runs last season for the San Diego Padres, was perhaps the class of the free agent catchers.
Chicago White Sox free-agent slugger Frank Thomas made his rounds yesterday, visiting several clubs, including stopping by the Orioles' suite. According to one source familiar with the Orioles' plans, Thomas so impressed the club that he is now being considered for a one-year, incentive-laden deal. If the Orioles land Hernandez and Thomas, they could look to trade catcher Javy Lopez.
Trevor Hoffman, the future Hall of Fame closer, has told the Indians and San Diego that he will chose between them today. "It will be earlier rather than later," said Padres General Manager Kevin Towers, who talked to Hoffman for about half an hour Tuesday night. The Indians, with today's midnight arbitration deadline hanging over them, have told Hoffman that they will not be shut out of the closer's market. So they will either sign Hoffman today or offer Bob Wickman arbitration tonight. If they offer Wickman arbitration, and he accepts, the man who saved 45 games for them last year will be back for at least one more year. Such an offer would give Wickman leverage because he could go to the arbitration table and ask for $8 million to $9 million. Towers said the only way the Padres would offer Hoffman arbitration is if they feel they're close to negotiating a new deal.
Matt Morris is believed to be leaning toward accepting a two-year offer from the San Francisco Giants; he is certain to command more than the two-year, $14.25 million deal the Cleveland Indians gave Paul Byrd. The Giants' proposal is for more than $8 million a season, according to a source familiar with talks. "His market has developed beyond what we feel comfortable with, but we haven't closed it out," Jocketty said.
The Cubs also have talked with other teams about left-handed hitters. Players who would fit that mold and might be available include the Mets' Cliff Floyd and the Diamondbacks' Shawn Green, both of whom have Chicago roots, and the Phillies Bobby Abreu, who would command a high return in pitching talent.
The Nationals continue to pursue Florida center fielder Juan Pierre via a trade, but the Chicago Cubs appear to be much closer to acquiring the leadoff man. And a source said they have discussed the idea of sending Brad Wilkerson to Pittsburgh for one of the three pitchers the Pirates are dangling -- Kip Wells, Josh Fogg or Mark Redman. They also continue to talk to Arizona about right-hander Javier Vazquez.
The Mets also have been encouraged by the interest other teams have shown in second baseman Kaz Matsui, whom they'd like to trade so they could sign a replacement such as Mark Grudzielanek or Tony Graffanino. The Los Angeles Dodgers are one of the teams interested in Matsui, with an eye toward converting him to an outfielder.
Arizona is actually shopping outfielder Luis Gonzalez, the face of the franchise even before he delivered the Game 7-winning hit against Mariano Rivera in the 2001 World Series. The Diamondbacks have payroll issues, and Gonzalez clearly isn't the player he was. The fans they do have aren't going to take it well if they ship their World Series hero out of town.
The Yankees don't seem interested in trading for Steve Finley, Milton Bradley or Corey Patterson, who are available.
One of the players the Blue Jays continue to pursue is Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Lyle Overbay. Brewers assistant general manager Gord Ash confirmed that Toronto continued to be aggressive in its pursuit of Overbay in face-to-face meetings between officials of the two clubs. "They have been from the get-go," said Ash. "They were very upfront at the general managers meetings (in early November) about their interest in Lyle." Toronto is believed to have given the Brewers a number of pitchers to consider in the deal, including right-hander Dave Bush, who went 5-11 with a 4.49 ERA in 25 games (24 starts) in the majors last season. Ash admitted the Brewers' interest was piqued by the discussions and the sides agreed to meet again today for further discussions.
Despite continued rumors that Angels free-agent pitcher Jarrod Washburn, a Wisconsin native, wants to pitch for the Brewers, Ash said there had been no contact with Washburn's agent, Scott Boras. With the market for pitchers again soaring out of sight, Ash said it is unlikely the Brewers could afford Washburn. Beyond that, if it's true Washburn would like to pitch for the Brewers, Ash said they'd like to hear it from Boras. "We're of the thinking that if you want to play for the Milwaukee Brewers, make a call," said Ash. "There should be some kind of show of interest on their part."
Nomar Garciaparra, another third baseman in whom the Pirates have expressed interest, appears to be leaning toward playing on the West Coast. The Dodgers and San Diego Padres are chief among his suitors, although the Baltimore Orioles also are involved.
Philadelphia has resumed a long-running quest to acquire Kip Wells even though he is coming off an 8-18 season in which he posted a 5.09 earned run average. One reason: The Phillies have only three certain starters -- Jon Lieber, Brett Myers and Cory Lidle -- for next season. Another reason: Wells dominated Philadelphia, going 2-0 in two starts and allowing one run. One of those was a 12-strikeout shutout July 5. The Phillies are shopping outfielder Jason Michaels, a player the Pirates briefly pursued more than a year ago. Michaels, 29, is an above-average fielder who batted .304 with four home runs and 31 RBIs. The Pirates are believed to be no less interested in a prospect, Class A right-handed starting pitcher Scott Mathieson.
The Rockies have discussed sending cheap second baseman Aaron Miles (.281, 28 RBI) to Florida. . . . The Marlins told free agent pitcher Brian Moehler's agent they want to re-sign him.
The Red Sox were closing on two more deals last night that would send David Wells to Oakland for reliever Justin Duchscherer and backup catcher Doug Mirabelli to San Diego for second baseman Mark Loretta.
Nats GM Jim Bowden played down rumors that Washington is about to swap outfielder Terrmel Sledge for San Diego leadoff man Dave Roberts.
Top infield prospect B.J. Upton said he came away from a meeting this week with new executive vice president Andrew Friedman and manager Joe Maddon feeling good about two things: The Rays don't plan to move him from shortstop; and they are not adamant that he open the season in the minors. Upton termed the late Monday meeting "a good chat" that produced good news. "(Shortstop) is where I want to be," he said. "And I don't think they've put a label on me as far as (what level) I'm going to be." The Rays have hired Jimy Williams as an instructor to work with Upton, primarily on his footwork, and may also bring in Ozzie Smith.
The president of the Florida Marlins began his relocation tour Tuesday in San Antonio, but his itinerary does not yet include Portland. David Samson, whose team is conducting a fire sale that already has trimmed $38 million from its player payroll, met with San Antonio city officials and said he will visit other cities over the next three to five months. That tour undoubtedly will include Las Vegas and Portland, which are considered the front-runners should the Marlins actually relocate.
The Dodgers continue to pursue free-agent third baseman Bill Mueller, who is believed to have received a two-year offer from Pittsburgh. Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti said he has made an offer to at least one of the three free-agent third base possibilities - Mueller, Joe Randa and Nomar Garciaparra - the Dodgers are interested in, but wouldn't say which one.
The Red Sox, according to a source, have inquired about Angel shortstop Orlando Cabrera, who helped Boston win the 2004 World Series and just finished the first year of a four-year, $32-million contract with the Angels. The Red Sox would clear a position for Cabrera by trading shortstop Edgar Renteria, possibly to Atlanta.
Veteran reliever Jeff Nelson talked to GM Brian Cashman about a possible third stint in the Yankees bullpen. Nelson is also interested in pitching for the Mets and Dodgers. ... The Phillies are talking to the Dodgers about trading third baseman David Bell.
Padres officials have said they believe Arizona could end up signing catcher Ramon Hernandez, San Diego's catcher the past two years.
Dave Stewart, Rickey Henderson's longtime friend and former A's teammate, told The Chronicle he and Henderson have talked about Rickey moving into a coaching role. Henderson's mother, Bobbie, echoed Stewart's comments, saying her son is "thinking about (retiring), but it's not definite." "We personally talked about life after (playing) baseball, in detail," Stewart said Tuesday. "Whether that means retirement, I don't know. ... I think he's seriously thinking about it. When he does retire, I don't think he's going to announce it." When Henderson told Stewart of his interest in coaching, Stewart asked when this might happen. "Probably next year," Henderson replied. A's general manager Billy Beane was one of the club officials Stewart told about Henderson's desire to coach. Beane thought it was a great idea, according to Stewart.
The Giants remain focused on a starting pitcher, but their chances of signing Morris took a hit when A.J. Burnett signed with the Blue Jays, not the Cardinals. Now the Cardinals may try to re-sign Morris, leaving the Giants with fewer options. Sabean, suggesting he's not involved in negotiations for another pitcher of Morris' quality, said he's willing to wait until Dec. 20, when arbitration-eligible players not tendered contracts become free agents. Sabean has looked into lower-level pitchers but doesn't seem thrilled. Agent Tommy Tanzar said he has spoken with Sabean about Jason Jennings, who went 8-13 with a 4.54 ERA with Detroit. The Giants aren't keen on trading for David Wells or costly Javier Vazquez, either.
On a day that talks between Frank Thomas and Oakland heightened, the A's dropped out of the Milton Bradley sweepstakes. The A's had been serious about trading for the Dodgers outfielder, but Thomas is now the clear No. 1 choice on the wish list. The A's never considered trading Barry Zito to the Dodgers. The bait would have been someone such as Kirk Saarloos, who was bumped from the rotation after the recent Esteben Loaiza signing.
Manny Ramirez agent, Greg Genske, who mentioned Ramirez might be willing to restructure his contract or ask for an extension with the team he is traded to, said he was pleased to hear the Red Sox expressed optimism about trading Ramirez. “That’s good,” said Genske. “We’re still trying to contact teams that are interested in Manny and let the Red Sox know who is out there.” Genske also implied the Red Sox do not have a list of teams Ramirez wants to play for. “What list is there?” he said. “I’ve been hearing about a list for the last two months.”
The Indians will offer Kevin Millwood arbitration today so they can be compensated if he signs with another team. It's unclear if they'll offer Scott Elarton, their other significant free agent, arbitration. Kansas City, which lost Paul Byrd to the Indians this week, is aggressively pursuing Elarton (11-9). The Indians are still interested in Elarton, but the money has to be right for a one- or two-year deal.
The Orioles talked to the Minnesota Twins about starter Kyle Lohse and left-handed reliever J.C. Romero, but the Twins aren't interested in moving Lohse.
One industry source expects the Orioles to make a bid on Florida Marlins free agent and former team member Jeff Conine after today's arbitration deadline so the team will not have to give up a top draft pick. "It's looking good," said Conine's agent, Michael Watkins.
Two Diamondbacks sources said the team has some interest in David Wells but not in backup catcher Doug Mirabelli. . . .Also, the Diamondbacks have not been told by the Red Sox that they are interested in starter Javier Vazquez.
Regarding Matt Clement, the Red Sox plan to meet with the Brewers as soon as today to continue their discussions on a trade for first baseman Lyle Overbay. Milwaukee had interest in Clement a year ago when he was a free agent, and the Red Sox continue to have interest in Overbay, who fits their need for a left-handed hitting first baseman. ... The Phillies, who might have had some interest in shipping outfielder Bobby Abreu to the Red Sox for Clement and outfielder Trot Nixon, have cooled on Clement. Abreu might wind up in Baltimore.
The 6-foot-5-inch, 270-pound Frank Thomas, 37, met Tuesday with Oakland and Minnesota officials and appeared fit in a jogging outfit, showing no signs of a limp as he walked briskly through the hotel lobby. "I'm just going to find the right situation and a winning situation," Thomas said in a confident tone. "That's important to me." What disturbed Thomas the most was speculation he wouldn't be healthy for the 2006 season, although Sox officials carefully chose their words about Thomas' future after his second foot fracture in July. "I'm ready to go," Thomas said. "I didn't like the reports that said I was a risk. That's not the case. No one gave me a physical to check. To call me a risk, that's a problem."
The White Sox will know Wednesday night whether Boston will offer salary arbitration to Tony Graffanino, another possibility. "It has to be right for us and is affordable," Ken Williams said. "The payroll already is taxed a little bit." Williams and Ozzie Guillen reiterated their endorsement of rookie Brian Anderson in center field.
Even with the cost of pitching at a premium, the White Sox are inclined to enter spring training with six starting pitchers and embattled left-handed reliever Damaso Marte. Several teams, from Colorado to the New York Yankees, have interest in a left-handed reliever. The Sox, however, believe Marte, 31, can recover from last season's problems that included a 5.49 home ERA and an argument with Guillen that resulted in his five-day removal from the team during the middle of the Sox's mid-September slump. "Right now, yes," Guillen responded when asked if Marte was in the Sox's plans. "The Damaso problem was that no one talked to him the way you should be talking. Everyone was baby-sitting and talking to him in a nice way. When I talked to him … he got better. "But I don't see that many lefties better than Damaso. I think Damaso has one of the best arms in the bullpen and, right now, he's on our club."
GM Jim Hendry's second proposed trade also involved one player coming in return for several Cubs. He has been in contact with Tampa Bay, which has left-handed right fielder Aubrey Huff and shortstop Julio Lugo available. Lugo also was the subject of a rumored three-way deal Tuesday night, with Tampa Bay receiving prospects in return and Atlanta getting shortstop Edgar Renteria from Boston. The Cubs have other pitchers, notably Jerome Williams and Todd Wellemeyer, plus Corey Patterson and Todd Walker who could be included in a trade.
The market for a second baseman became a little more crowded Tuesday as ex-Redbird Gold Glove second baseman Fernando Vina confirmed that he is seeking a return to the game. Vina, 36, departed the Cardinals as a free agent after the 2003 season to sign a two-year, $6 million contract with the Detroit Tigers. Hamstring and knee injuries cost him most of the '04 season and all of last season. Vina said Tuesday that he is willing to accept a minor-league contract with an invitation to major-league camp to show a team he still can play.
Cards GM Walt Jocketty is interested in Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Javier Vasquez, who has demanded a trade but prefers an East Coast landing spot.
Spurned by A.J. Burnett, the Cardinals now are unlikely to deal Jason Marquis in return for a corner outfielder. However, they could respond to teams' demands for pitching with prospect Adam Wainwright, whom Jocketty has mentioned as a candidate for the bullpen but is valued more as a starter.
The Cardinals are accelerating their search for relief help and preparing an offer for their own free-agent second baseman, Mark Grudzielanek. In search of righthanded set-up help, Jocketty has made one-year offers to Braden Looper and Octavio Dotel. Both are recovering from arm surgery but are expected to be available before May. The agents for Dotel said recent comments quoting Dotel as dismissing the possibility of pitching before June were inaccurate. Grudzielanek's contract stipulates the Cardinals may not offer him arbitration, meaning the club loses negotiating rights to him after the deadline. Grudzielanek is seeking a two-year deal for about $3 million a season. He played last season for a $1 million base.
Cubs manager Dusty Baker was asked if he would sign a contract extension if it were offered, he replied: "It has to be offered first. Jim needs to be signed first. Jim's my boss. The boss gets signed first and then you go down from there. I'll think about it when it happens. I've been in this situation six times in 13 years. This is the first time I've ever had a contract of more than two years. I'm kind of used to going into this situation. "[But] if the team wins, everything takes care of itself."
Faced with a major decision today on the future of free-agent pitcher Roger Clemens, the Astros must either offer the seven-time Cy Young Award winner salary arbitration by 11 p.m. or relinquish negotiating rights with him until May 1. Club officials wouldn't say Tuesday what they plan on doing, but with no decision from Clemens on whether he will retire or pitch another season expected for several weeks, the Astros find themselves in a bind. "Roger has certainly been a big part of the heartbeat of the Houston Astros the last two years, and we want him deeply involved," said Astros owner Drayton McLane, who made a brief stop at baseball's winter meetings Tuesday on his way home from a six-day business trip to Poland. "How this is going forward, it's just not clear." Astros general manager Tim Purpura met with Clemens' agents Randy and Alan Hendricks late Monday night and talked about various scenarios. The Hendrickses told Purpura on Sunday that Clemens wouldn't decide if he'll return for a 23rd big-league season until late January at the earliest. If the Astros decide to offer arbitration to Clemens, he has until Dec. 19 to accept or decline. If he accepts, he's considered a signed player, and the two sides must work out a contract or go to arbitration. If he declines, the Astros have until Jan. 8 to work out a deal
One Mets official said last night there was "not even a glimmer" of a potential trade for Manny Ramirez, and word around the winter meetings was that Ramirez could be on his way to Arizona or Anaheim. But things can change quickly, and Minaya was planning to meet with the Red Sox either last night or today.
The Mets were in serious discussions with the Kansas City Royals about a deal that would send right-handed pitcher Kris Benson to Kansas City for relief pitching. If they moved Benson, the Mets would then intensify their efforts to acquire right-hander Javier Vazquez from the Diamondbacks or left-hander Barry Zito from Oakland. The relievers in the Benson discussion are right-hander Mike MacDougal and left-hander Jeremy Affeldt. A high-ranking Royals official said the Mets wouldn't be able to get both pitchers in exchange for Benson, but might be able to get one. If the Royals agreed to send MacDougal, they would not want to send anybody else. But if the Mets decide they'd take Affeldt instead, the Royals might add another player
Another free agent of interest is Tony Graffanino, who ended last season as Boston's starting second baseman but would be a utility man with the Yankees. Cashman said some teams have expressed interest in trading for Tony Womack, who doesn't figure in the Yankees' plans, but a deal has been hard to consummate.
As far as the bullpen, the Yankees are talking to the representatives of free-agent right-hander Octavio Dotel, who expects to return from elbow surgery early in the season, about a one-year, incentive-laden deal. Boras said he also talked with the Yankees about right-handed reliever Julian Tavarez.
The Yankees must offer Bernie Williams arbitration by midnight tonight -- which seems unlikely -- or lose the right to negotiate with him until May 1. "We're discussing it -- his role and that stuff," Boras said. Asked if the door is open to Williams' return as a reserve, Cashman said, "We're still talking about that. I can't say."
Yes, Johnny Damon's name came up yesterday when his agent, who also represents Bernie Williams, met with Yankees general manager Brian Cashman. But the Yankees -- who have about the least amount of buzz around them of any team at the winter meetings -- still maintain, publicly and privately, that they expect to open spring training with Bubba Crosby as their center fielder. According to someone familiar with the session, agent Scott Boras reiterated he's seeking a seven-year deal for Damon, something that does not interest the Yankees.
In addition to bumping Brad Elred to the minors, the Pirates acquisition of Sean Casey will mean Craig Wilson plays right field full time rather than splitting duty at first base. Management is expecting Wilson to compete with Jody Gerut for the right-field job if no outside player is acquired.
Philadelphia management also has expressed interest in Mark Redman, who started last season superbly but finished 5-15. When effective, Redman is a ground-ball specialist, and that would be a good fit for the compact Citizens Bank Ballpark.
Pirates GM Dave Littlefield has sent strong signals he will not part with Zach Duke, Paul Maholm or Oliver Perez, but he has done no such thing regarding Kip Wells, Mark Redman or Josh Fogg, all of whom are drawing inquiries from other teams.
Free agent Rudy Seanez, a former Indian, has drawn interest from his old club for the same job. Seanez went 7-1 with a 2.69 ERA in 60 1/3 innings for San Diego last season.
As for the Tribe's quest for a right-handed hitter, add switch-hitter Ruben Sierra's name to the list. The Tribe has mild interest in the veteran DH/outfielder, who hit .229 with four homers and 29 RBI for the Yankees.
The D.C. Council yesterday narrowly rejected an effort to cap costs for a new ballpark for the Washington Nationals at $535-millionM.a< and force the city to include all infrastructure and financing costs in that total. The council voted 8-5 in favor of two emergency measures designed to outlaw any and all expenditures for the project outside the $535?million to be borrowed for the stadium on South Capitol Street. However, nine votes were required for passage.
Nats GM Jim Bowden said he made offers to every remaining upper-echelon free agent pitcher Tuesday -- Kevin Millwood, Matt Morris, Kenny Rogers and Jarrod Washburn. But others at the winter meetings predicted that the Nationals' ability to sign any of those players could be hindered by the ownership situation and the political wrangling over the construction of a stadium in the District.
Orioles legend Cal Ripken appeared on the meetings' main stage Tuesday to announce the formation of an investment group, made up of current and former players, that will seek to expand Ripken's growing collection of minor league franchises. Ripken has had discussions about a potential role with at least two groups seeking to purchase the Washington Nationals, and a source close to Ripken said he expects those talks to intensify as MLB nears a sale of the team.
One team source said free agent reliever Todd Jones probably won't be signed. Baltimore believes Jones could get a two-year deal worth $10 million and the Orioles aren't willing to pay that much. The source said also said he believed Jones isn't seriously considering Baltimore and is only using the Orioles for leverage.
One baseball source said the Orioles also spoke with Jacque Jones's representatives, though Flanagan said the team had not had any conversations about the outfielder. Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Lyle Overbay might also be an option.
In an attempt to further improve the offense, the Orioles also met with agent Arn Tellem regarding free agent infielder Nomar Garciaparra on Tuesday, but no contract specifics were discussed, according to team vice president Mike Flanagan. Manager Sam Perlozzo also called Garciaparra to express the team's interest. Flanagan said Tellem believed Garciaparra would narrow his choices in about a couple of weeks.
The Orioles were scheduled to talk with about 10 teams yesterday, and according to one source, there was plenty of conversation with the Cincinnati Reds, who are at least listening to offers for slugger Adam Dunn. The Reds, according to the source, are apparently seeking a package that includes left-hander Erik Bedard. One Orioles official confirmed that the club is extremely interested in Dunn, a left fielder who has hit 40 or more home runs in each of the past two seasons, but "it's going to be tough to pry him away" from Cincinnati. The Orioles would prefer not trading Bedard, 25, especially when they have to yet to make any additions to their starting rotation this offseason.
Red Sox GM Johnny Damon suggested in a phone interview with Newsday that he'd be happy to do the once-unthinkable and bolt for the short-haired, straight-laced arch-enemy Yankees. Damon, a natural for the biggest stage, actually seemed as excited about the possibility of becoming a Yankee as he was annoyed about his slow-moving negotiations with Boston. And he seemed quite annoyed. "I think New York's a great city," Damon said. Damon also thinks the Yankees have a great team, and he's thought about joining them. "I have," he said. "That's a lineup people dream about. It would be one of the best lineups we've seen in a long time."
The Braves are working on a major three-team trade that would bring Boston shortstop Edgar Renteria to Atlanta, two persons familiar with negotiations said Tuesday. The Braves would send a top prospect, likely third baseman Andy Marte, to Tampa Bay, and the Devil Rays would send shortstop Julio Lugo to the Red Sox in the deal, which was characterized as "percolating" late Tuesday by a person familiar with the talks. The Braves also discussed a three-team deal with Colorado and Tampa Bay that would bring Lugo to Atlanta and send catcher Johnny Estrada to the Rockies, but those negotiations cooled Tuesday as the other trade talks began heating up. The Braves and Devil Rays recently discussed a multi-player trade that involved Lugo and Tampa Bay closer Danys Baez, but the Braves were unwilling to part with catcher Brian McCann along with Marte, a person familiar with those negotiations said.
The Marlins were on the verge of a trade that would send center fielder Juan Pierre to the Chicago Cubs, most likely for a package of three minor-league pitchers. A contingent of Chicago and Florida writers gathered in the media room of the Wyndham Anatole, site of baseball's winter meetings, expecting an announcement of the deal early Wednesday. But a call came just after midnight local time indicating that the deal was not likely to be finished until later this morning. Pierre, who made $3.7 million last season in the final year of his contract, is eligible for arbitration this winter after hitting .276, his worst average in three seasons with Florida.
The Angels had conversations Tuesday with the Boston Red Sox about slugger Manny Ramirez and the Kansas City Royals about first baseman Mike Sweeney, but their pursuit of a middle-of-the-order bat to bolster their inconsistent offense seems to have stalled. The Royals, according to a source, offered Sweeney to the Angels and asked for first-base prospect Casey Kotchman and minor league shortstop Brandon Wood, the team's top power-hitting prospect.
Arguably the most celebrated prospect in Padres history appears headed to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. The Padres last night were finalizing the trade of third baseman Sean Burroughs for Tampa Bay pitcher Dewon Brazelton, a right-hander who was the Devil Rays' Opening Day starter in 2005, then proceeded to vanish mysteriously from the team for three weeks and finished with a 1-8 record and 7.61 ERA.
The Twins also continue to monitor the free-agent market. GM Terry Ryan is scheduled to meet today with free-agent slugger Mike Piazza's agent, Danny Lozano, about the potential of the perennial all-star filling Minnesota's void at DH. Four teams, including the Los Angeles Angels, are interested in Piazza. Piazza, 37, has spent his entire career in the National League and is interested in being a DH. Ryan acknowledged having a discussion with Lozano on Tuesday, but he did that in response to a reporter's question regarding another of the agent's clients — free-agent right fielder and longtime Twin Jacque Jones.
Baltimore is still interested in free agent pitchers Jarrod Washburn and Kevin Millwood, but haven't met with agent Scott Boras and weren't scheduled to do so as of early Tuesday evening. The Orioles, according to one source, are interested in Kenny Rogers, also a Boras client. Another possible Orioles target, according to the source, is Minnesota Twins pitcher Kyle Lohse. One team source said the Orioles still have some interest in New York Mets pitcher Kris Benson.
Mariners officials spoke with Carl Everett, the mercurial switch-hitting outfielder, and engaged in substantive talks that could help plug their punchless lineup. Everett, 34, earned $4 million with the Chicago White Sox this year, and is in line for a short-term contract of similar value after hitting .251 with 23 home runs and 87 RBIs during the team's title run. Though not on a par with Carlos Delgado or Brian Giles -- other names linked to the Mariners' pursuit of left-handed power, and now off the market -- Everett could cross that line off the club's offseason wish list.
The Dodgers are actively engaged in talks with Texas about a possible trade for Rangers second baseman Alfonso Soriano, but it isn't clear where he would fit. Any such deal likely would include Dodgers pitching prospect Jonathan Broxton, who made his major-league debut last season.
The Orioles according to one high-level team source, were close to signing free agent catcher Ramon Hernandez to what is believed to be a three-year deal. The acquisition of Hernandez, which the source said could happen Wednesday, would mean Javy Lopez would split time at first base and designated hitter. Hernandez, who hit .290 with 12 home runs last season for the San Diego Padres, was perhaps the class of the free agent catchers.
Chicago White Sox free-agent slugger Frank Thomas made his rounds yesterday, visiting several clubs, including stopping by the Orioles' suite. According to one source familiar with the Orioles' plans, Thomas so impressed the club that he is now being considered for a one-year, incentive-laden deal. If the Orioles land Hernandez and Thomas, they could look to trade catcher Javy Lopez.
Trevor Hoffman, the future Hall of Fame closer, has told the Indians and San Diego that he will chose between them today. "It will be earlier rather than later," said Padres General Manager Kevin Towers, who talked to Hoffman for about half an hour Tuesday night. The Indians, with today's midnight arbitration deadline hanging over them, have told Hoffman that they will not be shut out of the closer's market. So they will either sign Hoffman today or offer Bob Wickman arbitration tonight. If they offer Wickman arbitration, and he accepts, the man who saved 45 games for them last year will be back for at least one more year. Such an offer would give Wickman leverage because he could go to the arbitration table and ask for $8 million to $9 million. Towers said the only way the Padres would offer Hoffman arbitration is if they feel they're close to negotiating a new deal.
Matt Morris is believed to be leaning toward accepting a two-year offer from the San Francisco Giants; he is certain to command more than the two-year, $14.25 million deal the Cleveland Indians gave Paul Byrd. The Giants' proposal is for more than $8 million a season, according to a source familiar with talks. "His market has developed beyond what we feel comfortable with, but we haven't closed it out," Jocketty said.
The Cubs also have talked with other teams about left-handed hitters. Players who would fit that mold and might be available include the Mets' Cliff Floyd and the Diamondbacks' Shawn Green, both of whom have Chicago roots, and the Phillies Bobby Abreu, who would command a high return in pitching talent.
The Nationals continue to pursue Florida center fielder Juan Pierre via a trade, but the Chicago Cubs appear to be much closer to acquiring the leadoff man. And a source said they have discussed the idea of sending Brad Wilkerson to Pittsburgh for one of the three pitchers the Pirates are dangling -- Kip Wells, Josh Fogg or Mark Redman. They also continue to talk to Arizona about right-hander Javier Vazquez.
The Mets also have been encouraged by the interest other teams have shown in second baseman Kaz Matsui, whom they'd like to trade so they could sign a replacement such as Mark Grudzielanek or Tony Graffanino. The Los Angeles Dodgers are one of the teams interested in Matsui, with an eye toward converting him to an outfielder.
Arizona is actually shopping outfielder Luis Gonzalez, the face of the franchise even before he delivered the Game 7-winning hit against Mariano Rivera in the 2001 World Series. The Diamondbacks have payroll issues, and Gonzalez clearly isn't the player he was. The fans they do have aren't going to take it well if they ship their World Series hero out of town.
The Yankees don't seem interested in trading for Steve Finley, Milton Bradley or Corey Patterson, who are available.
One of the players the Blue Jays continue to pursue is Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Lyle Overbay. Brewers assistant general manager Gord Ash confirmed that Toronto continued to be aggressive in its pursuit of Overbay in face-to-face meetings between officials of the two clubs. "They have been from the get-go," said Ash. "They were very upfront at the general managers meetings (in early November) about their interest in Lyle." Toronto is believed to have given the Brewers a number of pitchers to consider in the deal, including right-hander Dave Bush, who went 5-11 with a 4.49 ERA in 25 games (24 starts) in the majors last season. Ash admitted the Brewers' interest was piqued by the discussions and the sides agreed to meet again today for further discussions.
Despite continued rumors that Angels free-agent pitcher Jarrod Washburn, a Wisconsin native, wants to pitch for the Brewers, Ash said there had been no contact with Washburn's agent, Scott Boras. With the market for pitchers again soaring out of sight, Ash said it is unlikely the Brewers could afford Washburn. Beyond that, if it's true Washburn would like to pitch for the Brewers, Ash said they'd like to hear it from Boras. "We're of the thinking that if you want to play for the Milwaukee Brewers, make a call," said Ash. "There should be some kind of show of interest on their part."
Nomar Garciaparra, another third baseman in whom the Pirates have expressed interest, appears to be leaning toward playing on the West Coast. The Dodgers and San Diego Padres are chief among his suitors, although the Baltimore Orioles also are involved.
Philadelphia has resumed a long-running quest to acquire Kip Wells even though he is coming off an 8-18 season in which he posted a 5.09 earned run average. One reason: The Phillies have only three certain starters -- Jon Lieber, Brett Myers and Cory Lidle -- for next season. Another reason: Wells dominated Philadelphia, going 2-0 in two starts and allowing one run. One of those was a 12-strikeout shutout July 5. The Phillies are shopping outfielder Jason Michaels, a player the Pirates briefly pursued more than a year ago. Michaels, 29, is an above-average fielder who batted .304 with four home runs and 31 RBIs. The Pirates are believed to be no less interested in a prospect, Class A right-handed starting pitcher Scott Mathieson.
The Rockies have discussed sending cheap second baseman Aaron Miles (.281, 28 RBI) to Florida. . . . The Marlins told free agent pitcher Brian Moehler's agent they want to re-sign him.
The Red Sox were closing on two more deals last night that would send David Wells to Oakland for reliever Justin Duchscherer and backup catcher Doug Mirabelli to San Diego for second baseman Mark Loretta.
Nats GM Jim Bowden played down rumors that Washington is about to swap outfielder Terrmel Sledge for San Diego leadoff man Dave Roberts.
Top infield prospect B.J. Upton said he came away from a meeting this week with new executive vice president Andrew Friedman and manager Joe Maddon feeling good about two things: The Rays don't plan to move him from shortstop; and they are not adamant that he open the season in the minors. Upton termed the late Monday meeting "a good chat" that produced good news. "(Shortstop) is where I want to be," he said. "And I don't think they've put a label on me as far as (what level) I'm going to be." The Rays have hired Jimy Williams as an instructor to work with Upton, primarily on his footwork, and may also bring in Ozzie Smith.
The president of the Florida Marlins began his relocation tour Tuesday in San Antonio, but his itinerary does not yet include Portland. David Samson, whose team is conducting a fire sale that already has trimmed $38 million from its player payroll, met with San Antonio city officials and said he will visit other cities over the next three to five months. That tour undoubtedly will include Las Vegas and Portland, which are considered the front-runners should the Marlins actually relocate.
The Dodgers continue to pursue free-agent third baseman Bill Mueller, who is believed to have received a two-year offer from Pittsburgh. Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti said he has made an offer to at least one of the three free-agent third base possibilities - Mueller, Joe Randa and Nomar Garciaparra - the Dodgers are interested in, but wouldn't say which one.
The Red Sox, according to a source, have inquired about Angel shortstop Orlando Cabrera, who helped Boston win the 2004 World Series and just finished the first year of a four-year, $32-million contract with the Angels. The Red Sox would clear a position for Cabrera by trading shortstop Edgar Renteria, possibly to Atlanta.
Veteran reliever Jeff Nelson talked to GM Brian Cashman about a possible third stint in the Yankees bullpen. Nelson is also interested in pitching for the Mets and Dodgers. ... The Phillies are talking to the Dodgers about trading third baseman David Bell.
Padres officials have said they believe Arizona could end up signing catcher Ramon Hernandez, San Diego's catcher the past two years.
Dave Stewart, Rickey Henderson's longtime friend and former A's teammate, told The Chronicle he and Henderson have talked about Rickey moving into a coaching role. Henderson's mother, Bobbie, echoed Stewart's comments, saying her son is "thinking about (retiring), but it's not definite." "We personally talked about life after (playing) baseball, in detail," Stewart said Tuesday. "Whether that means retirement, I don't know. ... I think he's seriously thinking about it. When he does retire, I don't think he's going to announce it." When Henderson told Stewart of his interest in coaching, Stewart asked when this might happen. "Probably next year," Henderson replied. A's general manager Billy Beane was one of the club officials Stewart told about Henderson's desire to coach. Beane thought it was a great idea, according to Stewart.
The Giants remain focused on a starting pitcher, but their chances of signing Morris took a hit when A.J. Burnett signed with the Blue Jays, not the Cardinals. Now the Cardinals may try to re-sign Morris, leaving the Giants with fewer options. Sabean, suggesting he's not involved in negotiations for another pitcher of Morris' quality, said he's willing to wait until Dec. 20, when arbitration-eligible players not tendered contracts become free agents. Sabean has looked into lower-level pitchers but doesn't seem thrilled. Agent Tommy Tanzar said he has spoken with Sabean about Jason Jennings, who went 8-13 with a 4.54 ERA with Detroit. The Giants aren't keen on trading for David Wells or costly Javier Vazquez, either.
On a day that talks between Frank Thomas and Oakland heightened, the A's dropped out of the Milton Bradley sweepstakes. The A's had been serious about trading for the Dodgers outfielder, but Thomas is now the clear No. 1 choice on the wish list. The A's never considered trading Barry Zito to the Dodgers. The bait would have been someone such as Kirk Saarloos, who was bumped from the rotation after the recent Esteben Loaiza signing.
Manny Ramirez agent, Greg Genske, who mentioned Ramirez might be willing to restructure his contract or ask for an extension with the team he is traded to, said he was pleased to hear the Red Sox expressed optimism about trading Ramirez. “That’s good,” said Genske. “We’re still trying to contact teams that are interested in Manny and let the Red Sox know who is out there.” Genske also implied the Red Sox do not have a list of teams Ramirez wants to play for. “What list is there?” he said. “I’ve been hearing about a list for the last two months.”
The Indians will offer Kevin Millwood arbitration today so they can be compensated if he signs with another team. It's unclear if they'll offer Scott Elarton, their other significant free agent, arbitration. Kansas City, which lost Paul Byrd to the Indians this week, is aggressively pursuing Elarton (11-9). The Indians are still interested in Elarton, but the money has to be right for a one- or two-year deal.
The Orioles talked to the Minnesota Twins about starter Kyle Lohse and left-handed reliever J.C. Romero, but the Twins aren't interested in moving Lohse.
One industry source expects the Orioles to make a bid on Florida Marlins free agent and former team member Jeff Conine after today's arbitration deadline so the team will not have to give up a top draft pick. "It's looking good," said Conine's agent, Michael Watkins.
Two Diamondbacks sources said the team has some interest in David Wells but not in backup catcher Doug Mirabelli. . . .Also, the Diamondbacks have not been told by the Red Sox that they are interested in starter Javier Vazquez.
Regarding Matt Clement, the Red Sox plan to meet with the Brewers as soon as today to continue their discussions on a trade for first baseman Lyle Overbay. Milwaukee had interest in Clement a year ago when he was a free agent, and the Red Sox continue to have interest in Overbay, who fits their need for a left-handed hitting first baseman. ... The Phillies, who might have had some interest in shipping outfielder Bobby Abreu to the Red Sox for Clement and outfielder Trot Nixon, have cooled on Clement. Abreu might wind up in Baltimore.
The 6-foot-5-inch, 270-pound Frank Thomas, 37, met Tuesday with Oakland and Minnesota officials and appeared fit in a jogging outfit, showing no signs of a limp as he walked briskly through the hotel lobby. "I'm just going to find the right situation and a winning situation," Thomas said in a confident tone. "That's important to me." What disturbed Thomas the most was speculation he wouldn't be healthy for the 2006 season, although Sox officials carefully chose their words about Thomas' future after his second foot fracture in July. "I'm ready to go," Thomas said. "I didn't like the reports that said I was a risk. That's not the case. No one gave me a physical to check. To call me a risk, that's a problem."
The White Sox will know Wednesday night whether Boston will offer salary arbitration to Tony Graffanino, another possibility. "It has to be right for us and is affordable," Ken Williams said. "The payroll already is taxed a little bit." Williams and Ozzie Guillen reiterated their endorsement of rookie Brian Anderson in center field.
Even with the cost of pitching at a premium, the White Sox are inclined to enter spring training with six starting pitchers and embattled left-handed reliever Damaso Marte. Several teams, from Colorado to the New York Yankees, have interest in a left-handed reliever. The Sox, however, believe Marte, 31, can recover from last season's problems that included a 5.49 home ERA and an argument with Guillen that resulted in his five-day removal from the team during the middle of the Sox's mid-September slump. "Right now, yes," Guillen responded when asked if Marte was in the Sox's plans. "The Damaso problem was that no one talked to him the way you should be talking. Everyone was baby-sitting and talking to him in a nice way. When I talked to him … he got better. "But I don't see that many lefties better than Damaso. I think Damaso has one of the best arms in the bullpen and, right now, he's on our club."
GM Jim Hendry's second proposed trade also involved one player coming in return for several Cubs. He has been in contact with Tampa Bay, which has left-handed right fielder Aubrey Huff and shortstop Julio Lugo available. Lugo also was the subject of a rumored three-way deal Tuesday night, with Tampa Bay receiving prospects in return and Atlanta getting shortstop Edgar Renteria from Boston. The Cubs have other pitchers, notably Jerome Williams and Todd Wellemeyer, plus Corey Patterson and Todd Walker who could be included in a trade.
The market for a second baseman became a little more crowded Tuesday as ex-Redbird Gold Glove second baseman Fernando Vina confirmed that he is seeking a return to the game. Vina, 36, departed the Cardinals as a free agent after the 2003 season to sign a two-year, $6 million contract with the Detroit Tigers. Hamstring and knee injuries cost him most of the '04 season and all of last season. Vina said Tuesday that he is willing to accept a minor-league contract with an invitation to major-league camp to show a team he still can play.
Cards GM Walt Jocketty is interested in Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Javier Vasquez, who has demanded a trade but prefers an East Coast landing spot.
Spurned by A.J. Burnett, the Cardinals now are unlikely to deal Jason Marquis in return for a corner outfielder. However, they could respond to teams' demands for pitching with prospect Adam Wainwright, whom Jocketty has mentioned as a candidate for the bullpen but is valued more as a starter.
The Cardinals are accelerating their search for relief help and preparing an offer for their own free-agent second baseman, Mark Grudzielanek. In search of righthanded set-up help, Jocketty has made one-year offers to Braden Looper and Octavio Dotel. Both are recovering from arm surgery but are expected to be available before May. The agents for Dotel said recent comments quoting Dotel as dismissing the possibility of pitching before June were inaccurate. Grudzielanek's contract stipulates the Cardinals may not offer him arbitration, meaning the club loses negotiating rights to him after the deadline. Grudzielanek is seeking a two-year deal for about $3 million a season. He played last season for a $1 million base.
Cubs manager Dusty Baker was asked if he would sign a contract extension if it were offered, he replied: "It has to be offered first. Jim needs to be signed first. Jim's my boss. The boss gets signed first and then you go down from there. I'll think about it when it happens. I've been in this situation six times in 13 years. This is the first time I've ever had a contract of more than two years. I'm kind of used to going into this situation. "[But] if the team wins, everything takes care of itself."
Faced with a major decision today on the future of free-agent pitcher Roger Clemens, the Astros must either offer the seven-time Cy Young Award winner salary arbitration by 11 p.m. or relinquish negotiating rights with him until May 1. Club officials wouldn't say Tuesday what they plan on doing, but with no decision from Clemens on whether he will retire or pitch another season expected for several weeks, the Astros find themselves in a bind. "Roger has certainly been a big part of the heartbeat of the Houston Astros the last two years, and we want him deeply involved," said Astros owner Drayton McLane, who made a brief stop at baseball's winter meetings Tuesday on his way home from a six-day business trip to Poland. "How this is going forward, it's just not clear." Astros general manager Tim Purpura met with Clemens' agents Randy and Alan Hendricks late Monday night and talked about various scenarios. The Hendrickses told Purpura on Sunday that Clemens wouldn't decide if he'll return for a 23rd big-league season until late January at the earliest. If the Astros decide to offer arbitration to Clemens, he has until Dec. 19 to accept or decline. If he accepts, he's considered a signed player, and the two sides must work out a contract or go to arbitration. If he declines, the Astros have until Jan. 8 to work out a deal
One Mets official said last night there was "not even a glimmer" of a potential trade for Manny Ramirez, and word around the winter meetings was that Ramirez could be on his way to Arizona or Anaheim. But things can change quickly, and Minaya was planning to meet with the Red Sox either last night or today.
The Mets were in serious discussions with the Kansas City Royals about a deal that would send right-handed pitcher Kris Benson to Kansas City for relief pitching. If they moved Benson, the Mets would then intensify their efforts to acquire right-hander Javier Vazquez from the Diamondbacks or left-hander Barry Zito from Oakland. The relievers in the Benson discussion are right-hander Mike MacDougal and left-hander Jeremy Affeldt. A high-ranking Royals official said the Mets wouldn't be able to get both pitchers in exchange for Benson, but might be able to get one. If the Royals agreed to send MacDougal, they would not want to send anybody else. But if the Mets decide they'd take Affeldt instead, the Royals might add another player
Another free agent of interest is Tony Graffanino, who ended last season as Boston's starting second baseman but would be a utility man with the Yankees. Cashman said some teams have expressed interest in trading for Tony Womack, who doesn't figure in the Yankees' plans, but a deal has been hard to consummate.
As far as the bullpen, the Yankees are talking to the representatives of free-agent right-hander Octavio Dotel, who expects to return from elbow surgery early in the season, about a one-year, incentive-laden deal. Boras said he also talked with the Yankees about right-handed reliever Julian Tavarez.
The Yankees must offer Bernie Williams arbitration by midnight tonight -- which seems unlikely -- or lose the right to negotiate with him until May 1. "We're discussing it -- his role and that stuff," Boras said. Asked if the door is open to Williams' return as a reserve, Cashman said, "We're still talking about that. I can't say."
Yes, Johnny Damon's name came up yesterday when his agent, who also represents Bernie Williams, met with Yankees general manager Brian Cashman. But the Yankees -- who have about the least amount of buzz around them of any team at the winter meetings -- still maintain, publicly and privately, that they expect to open spring training with Bubba Crosby as their center fielder. According to someone familiar with the session, agent Scott Boras reiterated he's seeking a seven-year deal for Damon, something that does not interest the Yankees.
In addition to bumping Brad Elred to the minors, the Pirates acquisition of Sean Casey will mean Craig Wilson plays right field full time rather than splitting duty at first base. Management is expecting Wilson to compete with Jody Gerut for the right-field job if no outside player is acquired.
Philadelphia management also has expressed interest in Mark Redman, who started last season superbly but finished 5-15. When effective, Redman is a ground-ball specialist, and that would be a good fit for the compact Citizens Bank Ballpark.
Pirates GM Dave Littlefield has sent strong signals he will not part with Zach Duke, Paul Maholm or Oliver Perez, but he has done no such thing regarding Kip Wells, Mark Redman or Josh Fogg, all of whom are drawing inquiries from other teams.
Free agent Rudy Seanez, a former Indian, has drawn interest from his old club for the same job. Seanez went 7-1 with a 2.69 ERA in 60 1/3 innings for San Diego last season.
As for the Tribe's quest for a right-handed hitter, add switch-hitter Ruben Sierra's name to the list. The Tribe has mild interest in the veteran DH/outfielder, who hit .229 with four homers and 29 RBI for the Yankees.
The D.C. Council yesterday narrowly rejected an effort to cap costs for a new ballpark for the Washington Nationals at $535-millionM.a< and force the city to include all infrastructure and financing costs in that total. The council voted 8-5 in favor of two emergency measures designed to outlaw any and all expenditures for the project outside the $535?million to be borrowed for the stadium on South Capitol Street. However, nine votes were required for passage.
Nats GM Jim Bowden said he made offers to every remaining upper-echelon free agent pitcher Tuesday -- Kevin Millwood, Matt Morris, Kenny Rogers and Jarrod Washburn. But others at the winter meetings predicted that the Nationals' ability to sign any of those players could be hindered by the ownership situation and the political wrangling over the construction of a stadium in the District.
Orioles legend Cal Ripken appeared on the meetings' main stage Tuesday to announce the formation of an investment group, made up of current and former players, that will seek to expand Ripken's growing collection of minor league franchises. Ripken has had discussions about a potential role with at least two groups seeking to purchase the Washington Nationals, and a source close to Ripken said he expects those talks to intensify as MLB nears a sale of the team.
One team source said free agent reliever Todd Jones probably won't be signed. Baltimore believes Jones could get a two-year deal worth $10 million and the Orioles aren't willing to pay that much. The source said also said he believed Jones isn't seriously considering Baltimore and is only using the Orioles for leverage.
One baseball source said the Orioles also spoke with Jacque Jones's representatives, though Flanagan said the team had not had any conversations about the outfielder. Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Lyle Overbay might also be an option.
In an attempt to further improve the offense, the Orioles also met with agent Arn Tellem regarding free agent infielder Nomar Garciaparra on Tuesday, but no contract specifics were discussed, according to team vice president Mike Flanagan. Manager Sam Perlozzo also called Garciaparra to express the team's interest. Flanagan said Tellem believed Garciaparra would narrow his choices in about a couple of weeks.
