(these are articles taken from sportstalk radio,internet,newspapers from around the country compiled on benmaller.com and kfl.)
A real nice stocking stuffer could come in a trade that would send Jose Vidro and reserve outfielder Ryan Church to the Cubs in exchange for starting pitcher Kerry Wood. The deal has more than a few details to be worked out, but there are two key issues. First, Vidro’s leg injuries have to be mended. Part two is Wood’s health and hefty contract.
Octavio Dotel was still deciding which team to sign with yesterday, although agent Dan Horwits expressed hope Dotel would choose soon. Dotel is the Yankees' top choice among remaining free-agent relievers; the Mets and St. Louis Cardinals are among the teams also interested in Dotel. While the Yankees already have 12 pitchers -- 13 including Scott Proctor -- they would like to add another reliever for depth. One line of internal thinking is that by late spring training teams will be looking for pitching help, and the Yankees could then deal a pitcher -- a reliever or perhaps Carl Pavano, if he is healthy -- for a center fielder if they do not acquire one before then.
With the Twins no longer facing the possibility of having to pay Jacque Jones next season, the team can turn its attention back to negotiating with a veteran DH such as Mike Piazza and Frank Thomas. General manager Terry Ryan had put talks on hold after offering arbitration to Jones on Dec. 7.
While still trying to make a trade for a right fielder, the Cubs have confirmed that they’ve made an offer to free agent Jacque Jones, who has played his entire career with the Minnesota Twins since 1999. General manager Jim Hendry would not reveal the nature of the offer, but reports out of the Twin Cities have it as either one or two years.
The Dodgers have backed away from free-agent outfielder Reggie Sanders, meaning left field will be occupied by a combination of Jose Cruz Jr. and Jayson Werth. Colletti wouldn't say why his interest in Sanders had waned, but a source with knowledge of the situation said Sanders was asking for a three-year guarantee in the $15 million-$18 million range. Colletti isn't giving three-year deals to anyone other than Rafael Furcal because of the abundance of promising prospects in the Dodgers minor-league system. Mike Powers, Sanders' Baltimore-based agent, denied his client was asking for a three-year contract.
Another MLB official, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the subject is so sensitive, said the league's formal response to a failure by the city to endorse the lease likely would be to announce that baseball was forced to "explore any and all options" for the Nationals' future. The implication: Baseball might seek to move the Nationals, or even revive the concept of contraction, eliminating the franchise as part of a new collective bargaining agreement with the players' union.
Johnny Damon rejected arbitration, meaning the Red Sox face a Jan. 8 deadline to sign the free agent center fielder or lose their rights to negotiate with him until May 1. The Sox remain the only club known to have made Damon an offer, a four-year, $40 million package CEO Larry Lucchino and Hoyer presented to agent Scott Boras during the winter meetings in Dallas two weeks ago. With the Dodgers reportedly on the verge of signing free agent Kenny Lofton, the Yankees appear to be the best remaining fit for Damon, who last week received a phone call from New York manager Joe Torre. The Orioles are also on record as having interest. ''There are a number of teams involved," Boras said late Sunday night. ''I spoke with the Red Sox last week. Talks continue. Johnny has visited with teams, has had conversations with a number of them."
The Orioles haven't spoken to Miguel Tejada's representatives since last week and the club appears determined to keep its franchise player, unless they are completely overwhelmed by a deal. They remain in talks with a couple of teams, including the Chicago Cubs, about Tejada.
The Rockies also will be watching the nontender decisions of the Washington Nationals, ready to make a move on infielder Junior Spivey. They also are interested in right-hander Gil Meche of the Seattle Mariners.
Kevin Millwood, the American League's ERA leader in 2005 and perhaps the best starter on the market this winter, will visit with Rangers officials today, two sources familiar with the negotiation process confirmed. One source said the Rangers have become serious contenders for Millwood. Millwood, who turns 31 on Saturday, is the first free agent pitcher to agree to visit Texas this winter. The Rangers invited Matt Morris, but he did elected not to visit any teams before signing with San Francisco.
The Florida Marlins and the agent for left-handed pitcher Dontrelle Willis have made progress on a one-year contract. "Certainly where they started is reasonable,'' agent Matt Sosnick said Monday. "We've talked a few times, and it's been very open, very polite.''
The Red Sox continue to explore shortstop options. A trade involving Manny Ramírez for Baltimore's Miguel Tejada remains a longshot, and the Sox would face strong competition from the Cubs and Angels, among others. The Sox remain in contact with the agent for Alex Gonzalez, Eric Goldschmidt, who says Boston is one of three teams that have shown interest in the former Marlin. Goldschmidt said he hopes to know something by the end of the week, but acknowledged he had not spoken with the Sox since last week. A trade for Tampa Bay's Julio Lugo remains an outside possibility. The Devil Rays almost certainly would ask for top infield prospect Andy Marte; they nearly had a deal with Atlanta for Lugo until the Braves opted to acquire Edgar Renteria instead . . . Efforts to trade lefthander David Wells also remained on hold; the Padres remain the most likely landing spot.
The Yankees are also interested in Julian Tavarez, but an official with another team that has discussed Tavarez said he is seeking a four-year deal.
There have been reports the Braves have shown interest in trading for Danys Baez (Tampa Bay) or Miguel Batista (Toronto), but the respective prices currently being asked to obtain their services are far too steep. Neither Baez nor Batista has been a closer for a playoff-caliber team. Nor does either even have the credentials of Dan Kolb, who wilted under the spotlight in Atlanta this past season. Fans have suggested that John Smoltz should return to the closer's role. Is he currently the best option to fill that role? Certainly. But at the same time, he's also the best option to have at the front of the Braves' rotation.
As far as Adam Dunn goes, it doesn't look like the Reds are going to move him. His 40-homer potential would be quite welcome in Toronto, but Cincinnati seems pretty set on keeping him to play first base after trading Sean Casey to Pittsburgh.
All indications pointed to infielder Tony Graffanino accepting salary arbitration with the Red Sox, and last night that became official. What the Red Sox do with him now remains to be seen. Unable to garner a multiyear contract on the open market, the second baseman is expected to command somewhere between $1.5-$2 million in 2006 through arbitration, according to a source. Because that money would be non-guaranteed, the Sox ultimately could release Graffanino during spring training and be responsible only for one-sixth of his salary, approximately $300,000. There is the possibility that the Sox could trade Graffanino during spring training depending on the health and performances of Mark Loretta and Dustin Pedroia. But with the Red Sox pursuing shortstop Alex Gonzalez, among others, there seems little place for Graffanino on the active roster.
It's not axiomatic that the White Sox and pitcher Jose Contreras will strike an extension soon. Jaime Torres, Contreras' agent, said Monday he wasn't encouraged by the White Sox's initial offer to keep him past 2006. "We have to look at today's market," Torres said. That's cause for concern among the Sox, who have 16 players under contract at about $83 million for 2006 but want to stabilize their rotation for the future in an escalating market. The Sox will receive about $27 million in compensation from Philadelphia and Arizona in deals involving Jim Thome and Javier Vazquez, but most of that money will be doled out after 2006.
With the free-agent market growing this week, the Rays will have to make a decision whether to jump into the market and chase a few veterans who can help this season or continue with trade talks involving outfielder Joey Gathright, closer Danys Baez, Julio Lugo and Aubrey Huff for promising prospects who will help in the future.
I think there's a good chance you'll see Bret Boone somewhere in the Major Leagues, just not on the Mariners. Boone said recently that he's got the fire to compete back in him, and he has been working tirelessly to get in great shape for the season. He's hoping a team will sign him, and he's drawn some interest, reportedly from the Cincinnati Reds and perhaps a few other clubs. But the Mariners are set at second base with Jose Lopez and Willie Bloomquist.
I think there's a decent chance that D'Backs 3B Troy Glaus will be dealt, though by no means a sure thing. As for the Indians, from my understanding they are more interested in acquiring an outfielder rather than a corner infielder.
The Dodgers are not expected to tender a contract to catcher Jason Phillips and could choose the same route with first baseman Hee-Seop Choi. Garciaparra's arrival makes Choi expendable, but because of his power and youth, the Dodgers are trying to sign him to a salary considerably below what he could earn through arbitration. If he does not agree, Choi would probably non-tender him and make him a free agent.
Frank Thomas, in whom the Twins have had some interest, hit the majority of his home runs the past three seasons at the White Sox's U.S. Cellular Field, a friendly park for right-handed hitters. In those seasons, Thomas hit 52 homers at home and just 20 on the road. The trend line, by the way, on another free-agent designated hitter, Mike Piazza, is nearly straight down.
The Dodgers infield could rival any in baseball. Certainly it will be one of the most expensive — the average annual value of contracts for shortstop Rafael Furcal ($13 million), second baseman Jeff Kent ($9 million), third baseman Bill Mueller ($4.75 million) and Nomar Garciaparra exceeds $30 million.
Pedro Astacio said no to the Padres' offer of arbitration yesterday, which could lead to the return of another former pitcher. General Manager Kevin Towers said the Padres have had preliminary negotiations with free-agent Brett Tomko. The right-hander, who lives in San Diego, was 8-15 with a 4.48 earned-run average with the Giants last season. Tomko, 32, could fill a spot created by Astacio signing elsewhere or an opening created by a potential trade of Adam Eaton. Tomko was 10-10 with a 4.49 ERA in 32 starts with the Padres in 2002.
Mariners GM Bill Bavasi said "If we do anything else, it would be by trade." That raises the question of whether the club would pursue a trade for one of two available Boston starting pitchers, Matt Clement or Bronson Arroyo. The Red Sox have been seeking Mariners center fielder Jeremy Reed.
The Orioles are still believed to be the front-runner for Florida Marlins free agent Jeff Conine, but they have been unable to close the deal. The talks between the two sides have slowed as Michael Watkins, Conine's agent, is dealing with a personal matter. Orioles officials are hopeful they will have him signed before the weekend.
Brian Roberts missed the Orioles' final 12 games last year, but the initial fear was that the injury would force the All-Star second baseman out of the beginning of the 2006 season, too. Yesterday, Roberts quieted those fears, saying his left arm feels better every day and he expects to be ready for Opening Day 2006. "You can never predict two months from now, but we're on schedule and there haven't been any major setbacks," said Roberts, who had the surgery on Sept. 30. "I saw my doctor, and he didn't see any reason that I wouldn't be ready to go. I won't be going 100 percent the first day of spring training, but if I am ready to be playing by the middle of spring training, I think that's plenty of time to get ready." Asked if he'd be at second base when the Orioles open the season the first week of April, Roberts said, "We don't see any reason at this point why I wouldn't be."
Late Monday night, the Rockies were willing to open their checkbook, signing closer Brian Fuentes to a two- year, $5.5 million contract. Fuentes, who was eligible for salary arbitration, will earn $2 million in 2006 and $3.5 million in 2007. He recorded 31 saves last season, going 2-5 with a 2.91 earned-run average.
Astros general manager Tim Purpura expects to tender contracts to all his remaining arbitration-eligible players today. Closer Brad Lidge, third baseman Morgan Ensberg, shortstop Adam Everett, reliever Dan Wheeler and catcher Raul Chavez are all eligible for arbitration, and they would become free agents if they aren't tendered contracts by today's deadline.
It didn't work out for Kaz Ishii in New York, and now his time here is over. The Mets released the Japanese left-hander yesterday, making him a free agent and leaving him to decide whether to pursue a job in the U.S. major leagues or return to his Japanese team. The Yakult Swallows, for whom Ishii pitched before leaving Japan for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2002, are interested in bringing him back. They've enlisted the help of their player-manager, Atsuya Furuta, who was Ishii's catcher when Ishii played in Japan, in trying to convince him to return.
The Phillies will be keeping an eye on other teams to see which players are cut loose. That list could include Seattle Mariners righthanders Gil Meche and Ryan Franklin, Tampa Bay Devil Rays righthander Joe Borowski, Milwaukee Brewers righthander Dan Kolb, Boston Red Sox righthander Wade Miller, and San Francisco Giants righthander Jim Brower. Yesterday, the New York Mets released lefthander Kazuhisa Ishii.
The Phillies have three players eligible for arbitration: righthander Brett Myers and outfielders Jason Michaels and Endy Chavez. Myers and Michaels likely will be offered contracts. Myers projects as a top-of-the-rotation starter, and Michaels projects as the team's fourth outfielder behind Bobby Abreu, Pat Burrell and Aaron Rowand. Don't be surprised if the Phillies let Chavez go. The Phillies like Shane Victorino as their fifth outfielder, and Chavez was unremarkable in his time with the Phillies last season.
Today, it is expected to be Boston's turn not to tender Wade Miller a contract, a tacit acknowledgment that the risk did not pay off the way the Sox had hoped. Sox co-general manager Jed Hoyer would not confirm yesterday that the club intends to cut its ties with Miller today, the deadline for teams to tender contracts to players under their control. But Miller, who went 4-4 with a 4.95 ERA before undergoing surgery on his right labrum in late September, almost certainly will not be tendered and thus become a free agent.
The Red Sox continue to speak with the Seattle Mariners about a possible deal for center fielder Jeremy Reed; the Mariners, who signed free agent lefthander Jarrod Washburn yesterday, are known to have interest in Sox pitcher Bronson Arroyo.
The Red Sox are still in the market for a left-handed hitting first baseman to complement Kevin Youkilis. There are indications they have placed Travis Lee at the top of the priority list, in front of fellow free agents J.T. Snow and Scott Hatteberg. Lee accepted arbitration with the Devil Rays last night.
Reliever Rudy Seanez, who agreed in principle to a one-year deal with the Red Sox, is expected to officially become a member of the team this week. Terms have not yet been made available, but one source placed the estimated value somewhere around $2 million. While there were several other teams interested in Seanez, the agreement with the Sox is being held up by mere formalities at this point. There was some indication that Seanez could be in town today to undergo a physical exam.
Does that mean the Reds want Rich Aurilia to play second base? Probably, yes. But Aurilia is a free agent and the Reds have offered him arbitration so they can continue to negotiate. Aurilia has until midnight tonight to accept arbitration, but said Monday, "I'll probably decline. From talking with them, I don't think I fit into their payroll.
The Reds signed Ryan Freel to a two-year contract extension. Freel leads the league in ripped uniforms with his all-out style, finishing many games with the seat of his pants and the knees ripped in his uniform. And the medical staff will be kept busy applying ointment and stitches on Freel, who sacrifices his body to make catches, steal bases and score runs.
After officially cutting ties with the Twins on Monday by rejecting their offer of salary arbitration, Jacque Jones expressed little regret. "Baseball people know I've played my heart out for that organization," Jones said. "I guess it's time for us to part ways." As a free agent, Jones said he will have his pick of multiyear offers. Taking arbitration from the Twins would have guaranteed him only one more year of salary. Jones declined to say which teams have been pursuing him the hardest. The biggest reported offer is for three years, $15 million from the Kansas City Royals. The Chicago Cubs are also said to be interested in Jones
Carlos Zambrano and Mark Prior are among the six arbitration-eligible Cubs, along with center fielders Juan Pierre and Corey Patterson, second baseman Jerry Hairston and reliever Will Ohman. General manager Jim Hendry is not expected to non-tender any of his arbitration-eligible players by Tuesday's deadline, and is likely to sign Pierre to a multiyear deal before he becomes a free agent next year.
The White Sox are expected to receive permission from Major League Baseball to allow Jim Thome to report with the pitchers and catchers for spring training. Thome is recovering from elbow and lower back injuries.
Ryan Vogelsong, remained uncertain of his status as of late yesterday afternoon. He and his agent, Dave Meier, said they had not received word of an official tender from the Pirates. "If I were a betting man, I'd say he's going to get one," Meier said from his California office. "But we don't have it yet, and it's out of our hands." Meier added he and the Pirates had had contract talks in the past month.
How determined are the Pirates to have Oliver Perez report to spring training in shape? Today, general manager Dave Littlefield is making a special trip to Mexico to check up on him. "We have concern about all of our players in the offseason," Littlefield said. "But last year, Oliver had the slow start, and I want to make sure he's healthy and throwing the ball well." Littlefield will fly today to Culiacan, on Mexico's Pacific coast, and be in attendance when Perez is scheduled to pitch tomorrow for his hometown Tomateros. Perez expressed some surprise at the unusual visit. "Yeah, it's different," he said with a laugh. "But that's OK with me. I hope he likes what he sees."
Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria says that once a signed stadium deal is in place, the club will open up the budget again. So time is of the essence. While I fully expect Dontrelle Willis to be a Marlin for the 2006 season, whether he or Miguel Cabrera are with the team in 2007 may depend on what the future holds for the club.
If Steve Finley is not included in a trade and elects to return for his 18th big-league season, his likely destination is the bench. Though he has been one of the premier center fielders in his career and developed consistent home run power, those skills took a serious downturn in 2005. He still has the athleticism to play the outfield, but his swing was a shadow of its former self, and the Angels cannot afford a starter with little power who hits .220. Chone Figgins presents the likeliest option in center unless Dallas McPherson is unable to return as the starting third baseman. The club is also toying with the idea of sending Darin Erstad back out to center field.
Yankees | Leiter Declines Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:12:31 -0800
The New York Times reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/60/mlb">New York Yankees SP Al Leiter has declined the team's offer of arbitration.
Yankees | Williams Declines Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:11:22 -0800
The New York Times reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/60/mlb">New York Yankees OF Bernie Williams has declined the team's offer of arbitration, but the team and Williams are also near agreement on a one-year contract worth between $1.5 and $2 million.
Red Sox | Interest In Reed
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:06:25 -0800
The Boston Globe is reporting the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox continue to speak with the Seattle Mariners about a possible deal for Mariners OF Jeremy Reed. The Mariners are known to have interest in Red Sox SP Bronson Arroyo.
Red Sox | Seanez Deal Near
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:04:59 -0800
The Boston Herald reports a one-year deal is near between the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox and RP Rudy Seanez. Terms were not disclosed by the club, but an anonymous source indicates the deal is likely for $2 million.
Red Sox | Miller May Be Non-Tendered
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:00:02 -0800
The Boston Herald's Tony Massarotti reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox are likely to non-tender (not offer a contract to) SP Wade Miller prior to the Dec. 20 midnight deadline, effectively making him a free agent.
Red Sox | Damon Declines Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:59:10 -0800
The Hartford Courant's David Heuschkel reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox OF Johnny Damon has declined the team's offer of arbitration.
Red Sox | Graffanino Accepts Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:58:02 -0800
Updating a previous item, The Hartford Courant's David Heuschkel reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox IF Tony Graffanino has accepted the team's offer of arbitration.
Yankees | Mendoza Accepts Spring Invite
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:56:01 -0800
The Hartford Courant's Dom Amore reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/60/mlb">New York Yankees have extended an invitation to spring training to RP Ramiro Mendoza, which he accepted.
Marlins | Willis Would Take One Year
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:41:46 -0800
The Palm Beach Post's Tom D'Angelo reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/52/mlb">Florida Marlins SP Dontrelle Willis is receptive to a one-year contract offer from the club, but no details as to what his salary would be have been released.
Orioles | Parrish Close To Deal
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:34:31 -0800
The Baltimore Sun reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/44/mlb">Baltimore Orioles are close to finalizing a one-year deal with RP John Parrish, avoiding arbitration. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Orioles | Gil Close To Deal
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:34:00 -0800
The Baltimore Sun reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/44/mlb">Baltimore Orioles are close to finalizing a one-year deal with C Geronimo Gil, avoiding arbitration. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Orioles | Newhan Close To Deal
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:32:18 -0800
The Baltimore Sun reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/44/mlb">Baltimore Orioles are close to finalizing a one-year deal with OF David Newhan, avoiding arbitration. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Nationals | Stadium Deal Delayed
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:31:12 -0800
The Baltimore Sun's Jeff Barker reports Washington D.C. mayor Anthony A. Williams asked the D.C. Council to postpone a vote on a new baseball stadium lease agreement. Williams said he wanted to make "technical changes" to the lease, and that the legislation "will be resubmitted for consideration and a vote as soon as possible."
<A name=281675>Braves | Diaz Acquired
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:20:00 -0800
The Kansas City Star's Jeff Passan reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/43/mlb">Atlanta Braves acquired OF Matt Diaz from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for minor-league SP Rico Rodriguez.
Royals | Rodriguez Acquired
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:17:38 -0800
The Kansas City Star's Jeff Passan reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/54/mlb">Kansas City Royals acquired SP Rico Rodriguez from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for OF Matt Diaz.
Pirates | Peterson Sent To Minors
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:10:06 -0800
Updating a previous item, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/63/mlb">Pittsburgh Pirates SP Matt Peterson cleared waivers and was assigned to Triple-A Indianapolis.
Pirates | Vogelsong In Limbo
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:07:35 -0800
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Dejan Kovacevic reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/63/mlb">Pittsburgh Pirates SP Ryan Vogelsong had not received any indication that he would be tendered a contract for the 2006 season, although sources indicated all seven arbitration-eligible players on the Pirates would be tendered. "If I were a betting man, I'd say he's going to get one," Ryan Meier, Vogelsong's agent, said. "But we don't have it yet, and it's out of our hands."
Reds | Aurilia Expected To Decline Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:00:07 -0800
Updating an ongoing story, The Dayton Daily News' Hal McCoy is reporting <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/48/mlb">Cincinnati Reds IF Rich Aurilia will likely decline the Reds' arbitration offer this week.
Cubs | Offer Made To Jones
Mon, 19 Dec 2005 23:46:24 -0800
The Arlington Heights Daily Herald's Bruce Miles is reporting the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/46/mlb">Chicago Cubs have made an offer to free-agent OF Jacque Jones (Minnesota Twins). Terms of the deal were not disclosed by the Cubs, but sources indicate the contract is either for one or two years.
Cubs | Pierre To Get New Deal?
Mon, 19 Dec 2005 23:45:14 -0800
The Chicago Tribune reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/46/mlb">Chicago Cubs are expected to offer OF Juan Pierre a new multiyear contract before the season begins, to prevent him from becoming a free agent following the 2006 campaign.
Cubs | No Non-Tenders On The Way
Mon, 19 Dec 2005 23:43:33 -0800
The Chicago Tribune's Paul Sullivan reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/46/mlb">Chicago Cubs general manager Jim Hendry is likely expected to offer all of his arbitration-eligible players contracts for the 2006 season, meaning no one will likely be non-tendered off the 40-man roster.
White Sox | Thome May Get Permission To Report Early
Mon, 19 Dec 2005 23:39:21 -0800
The Chicago Tribune's Mark Gonzales reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/47/mlb">Chicago White Sox are expected to receive permission from Major League Baseball to allow DH Jim Thome (elbow/back) to report with the pitchers and catchers for spring training. Thome is recovering from elbow and lower back injuries.
A real nice stocking stuffer could come in a trade that would send Jose Vidro and reserve outfielder Ryan Church to the Cubs in exchange for starting pitcher Kerry Wood. The deal has more than a few details to be worked out, but there are two key issues. First, Vidro’s leg injuries have to be mended. Part two is Wood’s health and hefty contract.
Octavio Dotel was still deciding which team to sign with yesterday, although agent Dan Horwits expressed hope Dotel would choose soon. Dotel is the Yankees' top choice among remaining free-agent relievers; the Mets and St. Louis Cardinals are among the teams also interested in Dotel. While the Yankees already have 12 pitchers -- 13 including Scott Proctor -- they would like to add another reliever for depth. One line of internal thinking is that by late spring training teams will be looking for pitching help, and the Yankees could then deal a pitcher -- a reliever or perhaps Carl Pavano, if he is healthy -- for a center fielder if they do not acquire one before then.
With the Twins no longer facing the possibility of having to pay Jacque Jones next season, the team can turn its attention back to negotiating with a veteran DH such as Mike Piazza and Frank Thomas. General manager Terry Ryan had put talks on hold after offering arbitration to Jones on Dec. 7.
While still trying to make a trade for a right fielder, the Cubs have confirmed that they’ve made an offer to free agent Jacque Jones, who has played his entire career with the Minnesota Twins since 1999. General manager Jim Hendry would not reveal the nature of the offer, but reports out of the Twin Cities have it as either one or two years.
The Dodgers have backed away from free-agent outfielder Reggie Sanders, meaning left field will be occupied by a combination of Jose Cruz Jr. and Jayson Werth. Colletti wouldn't say why his interest in Sanders had waned, but a source with knowledge of the situation said Sanders was asking for a three-year guarantee in the $15 million-$18 million range. Colletti isn't giving three-year deals to anyone other than Rafael Furcal because of the abundance of promising prospects in the Dodgers minor-league system. Mike Powers, Sanders' Baltimore-based agent, denied his client was asking for a three-year contract.
Another MLB official, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the subject is so sensitive, said the league's formal response to a failure by the city to endorse the lease likely would be to announce that baseball was forced to "explore any and all options" for the Nationals' future. The implication: Baseball might seek to move the Nationals, or even revive the concept of contraction, eliminating the franchise as part of a new collective bargaining agreement with the players' union.
Johnny Damon rejected arbitration, meaning the Red Sox face a Jan. 8 deadline to sign the free agent center fielder or lose their rights to negotiate with him until May 1. The Sox remain the only club known to have made Damon an offer, a four-year, $40 million package CEO Larry Lucchino and Hoyer presented to agent Scott Boras during the winter meetings in Dallas two weeks ago. With the Dodgers reportedly on the verge of signing free agent Kenny Lofton, the Yankees appear to be the best remaining fit for Damon, who last week received a phone call from New York manager Joe Torre. The Orioles are also on record as having interest. ''There are a number of teams involved," Boras said late Sunday night. ''I spoke with the Red Sox last week. Talks continue. Johnny has visited with teams, has had conversations with a number of them."
The Orioles haven't spoken to Miguel Tejada's representatives since last week and the club appears determined to keep its franchise player, unless they are completely overwhelmed by a deal. They remain in talks with a couple of teams, including the Chicago Cubs, about Tejada.
The Rockies also will be watching the nontender decisions of the Washington Nationals, ready to make a move on infielder Junior Spivey. They also are interested in right-hander Gil Meche of the Seattle Mariners.
Kevin Millwood, the American League's ERA leader in 2005 and perhaps the best starter on the market this winter, will visit with Rangers officials today, two sources familiar with the negotiation process confirmed. One source said the Rangers have become serious contenders for Millwood. Millwood, who turns 31 on Saturday, is the first free agent pitcher to agree to visit Texas this winter. The Rangers invited Matt Morris, but he did elected not to visit any teams before signing with San Francisco.
The Florida Marlins and the agent for left-handed pitcher Dontrelle Willis have made progress on a one-year contract. "Certainly where they started is reasonable,'' agent Matt Sosnick said Monday. "We've talked a few times, and it's been very open, very polite.''
The Red Sox continue to explore shortstop options. A trade involving Manny Ramírez for Baltimore's Miguel Tejada remains a longshot, and the Sox would face strong competition from the Cubs and Angels, among others. The Sox remain in contact with the agent for Alex Gonzalez, Eric Goldschmidt, who says Boston is one of three teams that have shown interest in the former Marlin. Goldschmidt said he hopes to know something by the end of the week, but acknowledged he had not spoken with the Sox since last week. A trade for Tampa Bay's Julio Lugo remains an outside possibility. The Devil Rays almost certainly would ask for top infield prospect Andy Marte; they nearly had a deal with Atlanta for Lugo until the Braves opted to acquire Edgar Renteria instead . . . Efforts to trade lefthander David Wells also remained on hold; the Padres remain the most likely landing spot.
The Yankees are also interested in Julian Tavarez, but an official with another team that has discussed Tavarez said he is seeking a four-year deal.
There have been reports the Braves have shown interest in trading for Danys Baez (Tampa Bay) or Miguel Batista (Toronto), but the respective prices currently being asked to obtain their services are far too steep. Neither Baez nor Batista has been a closer for a playoff-caliber team. Nor does either even have the credentials of Dan Kolb, who wilted under the spotlight in Atlanta this past season. Fans have suggested that John Smoltz should return to the closer's role. Is he currently the best option to fill that role? Certainly. But at the same time, he's also the best option to have at the front of the Braves' rotation.
As far as Adam Dunn goes, it doesn't look like the Reds are going to move him. His 40-homer potential would be quite welcome in Toronto, but Cincinnati seems pretty set on keeping him to play first base after trading Sean Casey to Pittsburgh.
All indications pointed to infielder Tony Graffanino accepting salary arbitration with the Red Sox, and last night that became official. What the Red Sox do with him now remains to be seen. Unable to garner a multiyear contract on the open market, the second baseman is expected to command somewhere between $1.5-$2 million in 2006 through arbitration, according to a source. Because that money would be non-guaranteed, the Sox ultimately could release Graffanino during spring training and be responsible only for one-sixth of his salary, approximately $300,000. There is the possibility that the Sox could trade Graffanino during spring training depending on the health and performances of Mark Loretta and Dustin Pedroia. But with the Red Sox pursuing shortstop Alex Gonzalez, among others, there seems little place for Graffanino on the active roster.
It's not axiomatic that the White Sox and pitcher Jose Contreras will strike an extension soon. Jaime Torres, Contreras' agent, said Monday he wasn't encouraged by the White Sox's initial offer to keep him past 2006. "We have to look at today's market," Torres said. That's cause for concern among the Sox, who have 16 players under contract at about $83 million for 2006 but want to stabilize their rotation for the future in an escalating market. The Sox will receive about $27 million in compensation from Philadelphia and Arizona in deals involving Jim Thome and Javier Vazquez, but most of that money will be doled out after 2006.
With the free-agent market growing this week, the Rays will have to make a decision whether to jump into the market and chase a few veterans who can help this season or continue with trade talks involving outfielder Joey Gathright, closer Danys Baez, Julio Lugo and Aubrey Huff for promising prospects who will help in the future.
I think there's a good chance you'll see Bret Boone somewhere in the Major Leagues, just not on the Mariners. Boone said recently that he's got the fire to compete back in him, and he has been working tirelessly to get in great shape for the season. He's hoping a team will sign him, and he's drawn some interest, reportedly from the Cincinnati Reds and perhaps a few other clubs. But the Mariners are set at second base with Jose Lopez and Willie Bloomquist.
I think there's a decent chance that D'Backs 3B Troy Glaus will be dealt, though by no means a sure thing. As for the Indians, from my understanding they are more interested in acquiring an outfielder rather than a corner infielder.
The Dodgers are not expected to tender a contract to catcher Jason Phillips and could choose the same route with first baseman Hee-Seop Choi. Garciaparra's arrival makes Choi expendable, but because of his power and youth, the Dodgers are trying to sign him to a salary considerably below what he could earn through arbitration. If he does not agree, Choi would probably non-tender him and make him a free agent.
Frank Thomas, in whom the Twins have had some interest, hit the majority of his home runs the past three seasons at the White Sox's U.S. Cellular Field, a friendly park for right-handed hitters. In those seasons, Thomas hit 52 homers at home and just 20 on the road. The trend line, by the way, on another free-agent designated hitter, Mike Piazza, is nearly straight down.
The Dodgers infield could rival any in baseball. Certainly it will be one of the most expensive — the average annual value of contracts for shortstop Rafael Furcal ($13 million), second baseman Jeff Kent ($9 million), third baseman Bill Mueller ($4.75 million) and Nomar Garciaparra exceeds $30 million.
Pedro Astacio said no to the Padres' offer of arbitration yesterday, which could lead to the return of another former pitcher. General Manager Kevin Towers said the Padres have had preliminary negotiations with free-agent Brett Tomko. The right-hander, who lives in San Diego, was 8-15 with a 4.48 earned-run average with the Giants last season. Tomko, 32, could fill a spot created by Astacio signing elsewhere or an opening created by a potential trade of Adam Eaton. Tomko was 10-10 with a 4.49 ERA in 32 starts with the Padres in 2002.
Mariners GM Bill Bavasi said "If we do anything else, it would be by trade." That raises the question of whether the club would pursue a trade for one of two available Boston starting pitchers, Matt Clement or Bronson Arroyo. The Red Sox have been seeking Mariners center fielder Jeremy Reed.
The Orioles are still believed to be the front-runner for Florida Marlins free agent Jeff Conine, but they have been unable to close the deal. The talks between the two sides have slowed as Michael Watkins, Conine's agent, is dealing with a personal matter. Orioles officials are hopeful they will have him signed before the weekend.
Brian Roberts missed the Orioles' final 12 games last year, but the initial fear was that the injury would force the All-Star second baseman out of the beginning of the 2006 season, too. Yesterday, Roberts quieted those fears, saying his left arm feels better every day and he expects to be ready for Opening Day 2006. "You can never predict two months from now, but we're on schedule and there haven't been any major setbacks," said Roberts, who had the surgery on Sept. 30. "I saw my doctor, and he didn't see any reason that I wouldn't be ready to go. I won't be going 100 percent the first day of spring training, but if I am ready to be playing by the middle of spring training, I think that's plenty of time to get ready." Asked if he'd be at second base when the Orioles open the season the first week of April, Roberts said, "We don't see any reason at this point why I wouldn't be."
Late Monday night, the Rockies were willing to open their checkbook, signing closer Brian Fuentes to a two- year, $5.5 million contract. Fuentes, who was eligible for salary arbitration, will earn $2 million in 2006 and $3.5 million in 2007. He recorded 31 saves last season, going 2-5 with a 2.91 earned-run average.
Astros general manager Tim Purpura expects to tender contracts to all his remaining arbitration-eligible players today. Closer Brad Lidge, third baseman Morgan Ensberg, shortstop Adam Everett, reliever Dan Wheeler and catcher Raul Chavez are all eligible for arbitration, and they would become free agents if they aren't tendered contracts by today's deadline.
It didn't work out for Kaz Ishii in New York, and now his time here is over. The Mets released the Japanese left-hander yesterday, making him a free agent and leaving him to decide whether to pursue a job in the U.S. major leagues or return to his Japanese team. The Yakult Swallows, for whom Ishii pitched before leaving Japan for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2002, are interested in bringing him back. They've enlisted the help of their player-manager, Atsuya Furuta, who was Ishii's catcher when Ishii played in Japan, in trying to convince him to return.
The Phillies will be keeping an eye on other teams to see which players are cut loose. That list could include Seattle Mariners righthanders Gil Meche and Ryan Franklin, Tampa Bay Devil Rays righthander Joe Borowski, Milwaukee Brewers righthander Dan Kolb, Boston Red Sox righthander Wade Miller, and San Francisco Giants righthander Jim Brower. Yesterday, the New York Mets released lefthander Kazuhisa Ishii.
The Phillies have three players eligible for arbitration: righthander Brett Myers and outfielders Jason Michaels and Endy Chavez. Myers and Michaels likely will be offered contracts. Myers projects as a top-of-the-rotation starter, and Michaels projects as the team's fourth outfielder behind Bobby Abreu, Pat Burrell and Aaron Rowand. Don't be surprised if the Phillies let Chavez go. The Phillies like Shane Victorino as their fifth outfielder, and Chavez was unremarkable in his time with the Phillies last season.
Today, it is expected to be Boston's turn not to tender Wade Miller a contract, a tacit acknowledgment that the risk did not pay off the way the Sox had hoped. Sox co-general manager Jed Hoyer would not confirm yesterday that the club intends to cut its ties with Miller today, the deadline for teams to tender contracts to players under their control. But Miller, who went 4-4 with a 4.95 ERA before undergoing surgery on his right labrum in late September, almost certainly will not be tendered and thus become a free agent.
The Red Sox continue to speak with the Seattle Mariners about a possible deal for center fielder Jeremy Reed; the Mariners, who signed free agent lefthander Jarrod Washburn yesterday, are known to have interest in Sox pitcher Bronson Arroyo.
The Red Sox are still in the market for a left-handed hitting first baseman to complement Kevin Youkilis. There are indications they have placed Travis Lee at the top of the priority list, in front of fellow free agents J.T. Snow and Scott Hatteberg. Lee accepted arbitration with the Devil Rays last night.
Reliever Rudy Seanez, who agreed in principle to a one-year deal with the Red Sox, is expected to officially become a member of the team this week. Terms have not yet been made available, but one source placed the estimated value somewhere around $2 million. While there were several other teams interested in Seanez, the agreement with the Sox is being held up by mere formalities at this point. There was some indication that Seanez could be in town today to undergo a physical exam.
Does that mean the Reds want Rich Aurilia to play second base? Probably, yes. But Aurilia is a free agent and the Reds have offered him arbitration so they can continue to negotiate. Aurilia has until midnight tonight to accept arbitration, but said Monday, "I'll probably decline. From talking with them, I don't think I fit into their payroll.
The Reds signed Ryan Freel to a two-year contract extension. Freel leads the league in ripped uniforms with his all-out style, finishing many games with the seat of his pants and the knees ripped in his uniform. And the medical staff will be kept busy applying ointment and stitches on Freel, who sacrifices his body to make catches, steal bases and score runs.
After officially cutting ties with the Twins on Monday by rejecting their offer of salary arbitration, Jacque Jones expressed little regret. "Baseball people know I've played my heart out for that organization," Jones said. "I guess it's time for us to part ways." As a free agent, Jones said he will have his pick of multiyear offers. Taking arbitration from the Twins would have guaranteed him only one more year of salary. Jones declined to say which teams have been pursuing him the hardest. The biggest reported offer is for three years, $15 million from the Kansas City Royals. The Chicago Cubs are also said to be interested in Jones
Carlos Zambrano and Mark Prior are among the six arbitration-eligible Cubs, along with center fielders Juan Pierre and Corey Patterson, second baseman Jerry Hairston and reliever Will Ohman. General manager Jim Hendry is not expected to non-tender any of his arbitration-eligible players by Tuesday's deadline, and is likely to sign Pierre to a multiyear deal before he becomes a free agent next year.
The White Sox are expected to receive permission from Major League Baseball to allow Jim Thome to report with the pitchers and catchers for spring training. Thome is recovering from elbow and lower back injuries.
Ryan Vogelsong, remained uncertain of his status as of late yesterday afternoon. He and his agent, Dave Meier, said they had not received word of an official tender from the Pirates. "If I were a betting man, I'd say he's going to get one," Meier said from his California office. "But we don't have it yet, and it's out of our hands." Meier added he and the Pirates had had contract talks in the past month.
How determined are the Pirates to have Oliver Perez report to spring training in shape? Today, general manager Dave Littlefield is making a special trip to Mexico to check up on him. "We have concern about all of our players in the offseason," Littlefield said. "But last year, Oliver had the slow start, and I want to make sure he's healthy and throwing the ball well." Littlefield will fly today to Culiacan, on Mexico's Pacific coast, and be in attendance when Perez is scheduled to pitch tomorrow for his hometown Tomateros. Perez expressed some surprise at the unusual visit. "Yeah, it's different," he said with a laugh. "But that's OK with me. I hope he likes what he sees."
Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria says that once a signed stadium deal is in place, the club will open up the budget again. So time is of the essence. While I fully expect Dontrelle Willis to be a Marlin for the 2006 season, whether he or Miguel Cabrera are with the team in 2007 may depend on what the future holds for the club.
If Steve Finley is not included in a trade and elects to return for his 18th big-league season, his likely destination is the bench. Though he has been one of the premier center fielders in his career and developed consistent home run power, those skills took a serious downturn in 2005. He still has the athleticism to play the outfield, but his swing was a shadow of its former self, and the Angels cannot afford a starter with little power who hits .220. Chone Figgins presents the likeliest option in center unless Dallas McPherson is unable to return as the starting third baseman. The club is also toying with the idea of sending Darin Erstad back out to center field.
Yankees | Leiter Declines Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:12:31 -0800
The New York Times reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/60/mlb">New York Yankees SP Al Leiter has declined the team's offer of arbitration.
Yankees | Williams Declines Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:11:22 -0800
The New York Times reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/60/mlb">New York Yankees OF Bernie Williams has declined the team's offer of arbitration, but the team and Williams are also near agreement on a one-year contract worth between $1.5 and $2 million.
Red Sox | Interest In Reed
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:06:25 -0800
The Boston Globe is reporting the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox continue to speak with the Seattle Mariners about a possible deal for Mariners OF Jeremy Reed. The Mariners are known to have interest in Red Sox SP Bronson Arroyo.
Red Sox | Seanez Deal Near
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:04:59 -0800
The Boston Herald reports a one-year deal is near between the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox and RP Rudy Seanez. Terms were not disclosed by the club, but an anonymous source indicates the deal is likely for $2 million.
Red Sox | Miller May Be Non-Tendered
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:00:02 -0800
The Boston Herald's Tony Massarotti reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox are likely to non-tender (not offer a contract to) SP Wade Miller prior to the Dec. 20 midnight deadline, effectively making him a free agent.
Red Sox | Damon Declines Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:59:10 -0800
The Hartford Courant's David Heuschkel reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox OF Johnny Damon has declined the team's offer of arbitration.
Red Sox | Graffanino Accepts Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:58:02 -0800
Updating a previous item, The Hartford Courant's David Heuschkel reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/45/mlb">Boston Red Sox IF Tony Graffanino has accepted the team's offer of arbitration.
Yankees | Mendoza Accepts Spring Invite
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:56:01 -0800
The Hartford Courant's Dom Amore reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/60/mlb">New York Yankees have extended an invitation to spring training to RP Ramiro Mendoza, which he accepted.
Marlins | Willis Would Take One Year
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:41:46 -0800
The Palm Beach Post's Tom D'Angelo reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/52/mlb">Florida Marlins SP Dontrelle Willis is receptive to a one-year contract offer from the club, but no details as to what his salary would be have been released.
Orioles | Parrish Close To Deal
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:34:31 -0800
The Baltimore Sun reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/44/mlb">Baltimore Orioles are close to finalizing a one-year deal with RP John Parrish, avoiding arbitration. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Orioles | Gil Close To Deal
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:34:00 -0800
The Baltimore Sun reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/44/mlb">Baltimore Orioles are close to finalizing a one-year deal with C Geronimo Gil, avoiding arbitration. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Orioles | Newhan Close To Deal
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:32:18 -0800
The Baltimore Sun reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/44/mlb">Baltimore Orioles are close to finalizing a one-year deal with OF David Newhan, avoiding arbitration. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Nationals | Stadium Deal Delayed
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:31:12 -0800
The Baltimore Sun's Jeff Barker reports Washington D.C. mayor Anthony A. Williams asked the D.C. Council to postpone a vote on a new baseball stadium lease agreement. Williams said he wanted to make "technical changes" to the lease, and that the legislation "will be resubmitted for consideration and a vote as soon as possible."
<A name=281675>Braves | Diaz Acquired
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:20:00 -0800
The Kansas City Star's Jeff Passan reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/43/mlb">Atlanta Braves acquired OF Matt Diaz from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for minor-league SP Rico Rodriguez.
Royals | Rodriguez Acquired
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:17:38 -0800
The Kansas City Star's Jeff Passan reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/54/mlb">Kansas City Royals acquired SP Rico Rodriguez from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for OF Matt Diaz.
Pirates | Peterson Sent To Minors
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:10:06 -0800
Updating a previous item, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/63/mlb">Pittsburgh Pirates SP Matt Peterson cleared waivers and was assigned to Triple-A Indianapolis.
Pirates | Vogelsong In Limbo
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:07:35 -0800
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Dejan Kovacevic reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/63/mlb">Pittsburgh Pirates SP Ryan Vogelsong had not received any indication that he would be tendered a contract for the 2006 season, although sources indicated all seven arbitration-eligible players on the Pirates would be tendered. "If I were a betting man, I'd say he's going to get one," Ryan Meier, Vogelsong's agent, said. "But we don't have it yet, and it's out of our hands."
Reds | Aurilia Expected To Decline Arbitration
Tue, 20 Dec 2005 00:00:07 -0800
Updating an ongoing story, The Dayton Daily News' Hal McCoy is reporting <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/48/mlb">Cincinnati Reds IF Rich Aurilia will likely decline the Reds' arbitration offer this week.
Cubs | Offer Made To Jones
Mon, 19 Dec 2005 23:46:24 -0800
The Arlington Heights Daily Herald's Bruce Miles is reporting the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/46/mlb">Chicago Cubs have made an offer to free-agent OF Jacque Jones (Minnesota Twins). Terms of the deal were not disclosed by the Cubs, but sources indicate the contract is either for one or two years.
Cubs | Pierre To Get New Deal?
Mon, 19 Dec 2005 23:45:14 -0800
The Chicago Tribune reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/46/mlb">Chicago Cubs are expected to offer OF Juan Pierre a new multiyear contract before the season begins, to prevent him from becoming a free agent following the 2006 campaign.
Cubs | No Non-Tenders On The Way
Mon, 19 Dec 2005 23:43:33 -0800
The Chicago Tribune's Paul Sullivan reports <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/46/mlb">Chicago Cubs general manager Jim Hendry is likely expected to offer all of his arbitration-eligible players contracts for the 2006 season, meaning no one will likely be non-tendered off the 40-man roster.
White Sox | Thome May Get Permission To Report Early
Mon, 19 Dec 2005 23:39:21 -0800
The Chicago Tribune's Mark Gonzales reports the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/team/47/mlb">Chicago White Sox are expected to receive permission from Major League Baseball to allow DH Jim Thome (elbow/back) to report with the pitchers and catchers for spring training. Thome is recovering from elbow and lower back injuries.
