Baseball Digest | The Power Is Back; Time To Crank Up The Hot Stove

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The Power Is Back; Time To Crank Up The Hot Stove

The World Series concluded last week with the St. Louis Cardinals capturing their 11th World Series championship. Many of us in the northeast were then pounded by an October-ending storm that was as rotten as any January has to throw at us. For the many of us who lost power, heat, etc…what better time than now, the beginning of November, to crank up the HOT STOVE.

Oh yes, just because baseball is over, it doesn’t mean that baseball is over.

There’s a lot going on already…

Theo Epstein escaped from Boston to try to help another team, the Chicago Cubs, end their long running misery. He also had to get out from under the bus that Boston owner John Henry threw him under. The Cubs still owe the Red Sox compensation for Epstein after the latest deadline to do so passed with no resolution. Epstein is the Cubs’ new president and has named Jed Hoyer as the team’s new GM. Hoyer had been the ass’t GM in San Diego and had worked with Epstein in Boston during the team’s two titles in 2004 and 2007.

Epstein fired manager Mike Quade on Wednesday after just a little over one season in Chicago. The Sun-Times has the story.

The Red Sox quickly replaced Epstein with insider Ben Cherington, a long-time Boston employee. One of Cherington’s first moves was to exercise the $6MM option on Marco Scutaro for 2012. Cherington also said that Scutaro will be the starting shortstop entering spring training. He should face competition from veteran Jed Lowrie and highly touted prospect Jose Iglesias.

The Los Angeles Angels also changed GM’s, bringing in former Arizona Diamondbacks front office employee Jerry DiPoto to fill the role. DiPoto pitched for eight seasons in the bigs and compiled a 27-24 record with the Indians, Mets, and Rockies. He retired as a player after the 2000 season.

The Baltimore Orioles search for a GM continued after Toronto assistant GM Tony LaCava said, “no thanks”.

Winning manager Tony LaRussa retired after 33 years, three world championships, and six pennants. Commissioner Bud Selig said he would still like to see LaRussa manage the 2012 NL All-Star team.

Davey Johnson will be back as manager of the Washington Nationals after the club and he reached an agreement for 2012. The 68-yr old Johnson, who took over the team on June 27, will be the oldest manager in baseball. At least until Jack McKeon comes out of retirement again.

New York Yankees GM Brian Cashman inked a new three-year deal and ownership re-worked ace CC Sabathia’s contract so that the team’s #1 starter wouldn’t opt out of his current contract. The new deal guarantees Sabathia $122MM over five years. In this new technological era, Sabathia was the first to announce the new deal via Twitter. "Yankee fans, I’ll be here fighting for number 28 next year! "

One pitcher who may not be re-joining Sabathia in Pinstripes next season is the inconsistent A.J. Burnett. During the news conference to announce his new deal, Cashman said that Burnett will be in the rotation, “…if he’s with us.” Two Yankees who will be back are outfielder Nick Swisher (though he could be dealt) and Robinson Cano, who both had their options picked up.

The Phillies turned down the option on veteran starter Roy Oswalt, which made the right-hander a free agent.

The Tampa Bay Rays picked up options on closer Kyle Farnsworth and starter James Shields, but have parted ways with catcher Kelly Shoppach.

Embatted LA Dodgers owner Frank McCourt has agreed to sell the team at auction. The Dodgers were building a promising future until McCourt and his wife Jamie engaged in bitter divorce proceedings. A settlement allowed the team to finally be put up for sale.

Dodgers fans are ecstatic that the McCourts are selling. The LA Times has the full story.

The Indians have a new starting pitcher in veteran Derek Lowe. The right-hander was acquired from Atlanta on Monday for a minor leaguer. Cleveland will only have to pony up 1/3 of the $15MM that Lowe is still owed. The 38-yr old is coming off of one of his worst seasons when he went 9-17, 5.05 in 34 starts.

Courtesy of mlb.com, here is the complete list of 2012 free agents and potential free agents:

Atlanta Braves
Gonzalez, Alex
Linebrink, Scott
McLouth, Nate
Sherrill, George
Wilson, Jack

Arizona Diamondbacks
Duke, Zach
Hill, Aaron
Marquis, Jason
McDonald, John
Nady, Xavier
Overbay, Lyle

Baltimore Orioles
Guerrero, Vladimir
Izturis, Cesar

Boston Red Sox
Atchison, Scott
Bedard, Erik
Drew, J.D.
Jackson, Conor
Miller, Trever
Ortiz, David
Papelbon, Jonathan
Varitek, Jason
Wakefield, Tim
Wheeler, Dan

Chicago Cubs
Grabow, John
Johnson, Reed
Lopez, Rodrigo
Ortiz, Ramon
Pena, Carlos
Ramirez, Aramis
Wood, Kerry

Chicago White Sox
Buehrle, Mark
Castro, Ramon
Pierre, Juan
Vizquel, Omar

Cincinnati Reds
Cordero, Francisco
Hernandez, Ramon
Renteria, Edgar
Willis, Dontrelle

Cleveland Indians
Durbin, Chad
Fukudome, Kosuke*
Sizemore, Grady
Thome, Jim

Colorado Rockies
Cook, Aaron
Ellis, Mark
Millwood, Kevin
Romero, J.C.

Detroit Tigers
Betemit, Wilson
Guillen, Carlos
Ordonez, Magglio
Penny, Brad
Santiago, Ramon
Zumaya, Joel

Florida Marlins
Dobbs, Greg
Lopez, Jose
Vazquez, Javier C.

Houston Astros
Barmes, Clint
Michaels, Jason

Kansas City Royals
Chen, Bruce
Francis, Jeff
Kendall, Jason

Los Angeles Angels
Branyan, Russell
Pineiro, Joel
Ramirez, Horacio
Rodney, Fernando

Los Angeles Dodgers
Barajas, Rod
Blake, Casey
Broxton, Jonathan
Carroll, Jamey
Garland, Jon
Kuroda, Hiroki*
MacDougal, Mike
Miles, Aaron
Padilla, Vicente
Rivera, Juan

Milwaukee Brewers
Betancourt, Yuniesky
Counsell, Craig
Fielder, Prince
Hairston Jr, Jerry
Hawkins, LaTroy
Kotsay, Mark S.
Rodriguez, Francisco
Saito, Takashi

Minnesota Twins
Capps, Matt
Cuddyer, Michael
Kubel, Jason
Nathan, Joe

New York Mets
Batista, Miguel
Capuano, Chris
Hairston, Scott
Harris, Willie
Isringhausen, Jason
Reyes, Jose
Young, Chris

New York Yankees
Ayala, Luis
Chavez, Eric
Colon, Bartolo
Garcia, Freddy
Jones, Andruw
Marte, Damaso
Mitre, Sergio
Posada, Jorge

Oakland Athletics
Crisp, Coco
DeJesus, David
Harden, Rich
Matsui, Hideki
Willingham, Josh

Philadelphia Phillies
Gload, Ross
Ibanez, Raul
Lidge, Brad
Madson, Ryan
Oswalt, Roy
Rollins, Jimmy
Schneider, Brian

Pittsburgh Pirates
Cedeno, Ronny
Doumit, Ryan
Lee, Derrek
Ludwick, Ryan
Maholm, Paul
Snyder, Chris

San Diego Padres
Bell, Heath
Harang, Aaron
Hawpe, Brad
Qualls, Chad

Seattle Mariners
Aardsma, David
Bard, Josh
Kennedy, Adam
Pena, Wily Mo
Rodriguez, Luis
Wright, Jamey

San Francisco Giants
Beltran, Carlos
Burrell, Pat
Cabrera, Orlando
DeRosa, Mark
Mota, Guillermo
Ross, Cody

St. Louis Cardinals
Dotel, Octavio
Furcal, Rafael
Jackson, Edwin
Laird, Gerald
Patterson, Corey Pujols, Albert
Punto, Nick
Rhodes, Arthur

Tampa Bay Rays
Cruz, Juan
Damon, Johnny
Kotchman, Casey
Shoppach, Kelly

Texas Rangers
Chavez, Endy
Gonzalez, Mike
Oliver, Darren
Treanor, Matt
Webb, Brandon
Wilson, C.J.

Toronto Blue Jays
Camp, Shawn
Francisco, Frank
Johnson, Kelly
Molina, Jose
Rauch, Jon

Washington Nationals
Ankiel, Rick
Coffey, Todd
Cora, Alex
Gomes, Jonny
Hernandez, Livan
Nix, Laynce
Rodriguez, Ivan
Wang, Chien-Ming

* Eligible per contract terms.

BD Hot Stove: Starting The Year Off On The Right Foot | Baseball Digest

BD Hot Stove: Starting The Year Off On The Right Foot | Baseball Digest

It’s a new year in the hot stove, but some things haven’t changed since last we met. Yankees left-hander Andy Pettitte (who lands on his right foot; hence my poor pun) still hasn’t made up his mind about whether or not to play this year. However, the Bergen Record’s Bob Klapisch expects the Yankees to hear from Pettitte this week and unfortunately for Yankees fans, he expects the Yankees to hear the word retirement.

The Orioles wrapped up their 1st base needs over the holiday weekend, agreeing with Derrek Lee on a one year, $10M contract. The O’s had also negotiated with Adam LaRoche, but the veteran wanted a multi-year deal. LaRoche is now in serious negotiations with the Nationals.

The O’s may be in need of more bullpen help as well. Reliever Alfredo Simon turned himself in to the police in the Dominican Republic after being accused of shooting and killing one man and an injuring another.

ESPN Deportes reports that Adrian Beltre and the Rangers are close to an agreement on a free agent deal. Beltre has reportedly been seeking a guaranteed six year deal.

The Pirates signed pitcher Brian Burres to a minor league deal after non-tendering him earlier this off-season.

Also brought back with a minor league deal after being non-tendered is Red Sox left-hander Hideki Okajima. The set up man was a key part of the 2007 World Series championship.

SI’s Jon Heyman hears the White Sox have some interest in closer Rafael Soriano, though the feeling here is that the price may be too high for Chicago.

BD Hot Stove: Nolasco, No Greinke, No Pitching | Baseball Digest

BD Hot Stove: Nolasco, No Greinke, No Pitching | Baseball Digest

Available pitching got even slimmer over the weekend with the trade of Zack Greinke and the announcement that the Florida Marlins had come to terms with Ricky Nolascoon a three year contract. Nolasco wasn’t eligible for free agency, but the Marlins were having trouble locking him up and were taking calls on possible trades. The $26.5M deal eliminates the last two years of Nolasco’s arbitration eligibility and his first possible year of free agency.

Back to Greinke for a moment. Per the NY Post’s Joel Sherman, the Royals reportedly offered Greinke to the Yankees in return for Jesus Montero, Eduardo Nunez, and either Dellin Betances or Manny Banuelos. A very steep price that GM Brian Cashman was not willing to give up for only two guaranteed years of Greinke.

Another pitcher who may or may not be back is Andy Pettitte, who’s decision making skills seem to be right up there with Brett Favre’s. At least he’s not making daily/weekly pronouncements. With the Yankees pitching so up in the air, how long until Cashman takes the Royals asking price to Seattle in a Hail Mary attempt for Felix Hernandez?

Rumors, News, and Transactions

The Braves have re-signed outfielder Rick Ankiel to a one year, $1.5M deal.

The Brewers are bringing back infielder Craig Counsell for another year.

The Twins added to their depth, signing former Braves prospect Chuck James to a minor league deal.

Since George Steinbrenner took over the team, the Yankees always have had a penchant for bringing guys back a second time. Add reliever Luis Vizcaino to that list. He was inked to a minor league deal.

The Indians dealt Austin Kearns to the Yankees at the trade deadline, but have brought the free agent back with a one year, $1.3M deal.

The World Champion Giants inked veteran reliever Guillermo Mota to a minor league deal.

The Rangers added some depth by signing a trio of veterans. Outfielder Endy Chavez, pitcher Seth McClung, and infielder Brian Barden all got minor league deals and major league invitations.

Time to Catch Up On Some Yankees Business

You know by now that Joe Girardi and his infamous binder will be back for the next 3 years at $3 million a pop. The people have also spoken when I asked if you though GI Joe would be back in 2011. Keeping in mind that the poll was started well before the Cubs named Mike Quade as their permanent manager.

As you can see more than 2/3 of you thought that Girardi would be back. And you were right. Girardi and Brian Cashman will now be looking for a pitching coach to join the staff. Dave Eiland, btw, recently rebuked rumors that he and Girardi did not get along and that is what led to his dismissal.

The Yankees recently asked for permission to talk to former Yankees farmhand and Blue Jays pitching (and Jim Bouton look alike) Gil Patterson, who is currently an employee of the Oakland A's. Patterson was very highly thought of during his time in Toronto.

Free agents - As expected, options for Kerry Wood, Lance Berkman, and Nick Johnson were not exercised, allowing the three to be free agents. Only Wood has a shot at returning.

Derek Jeter - Hal Steinbrenner recently spoke on WFAN and ESPNradio and said he did not expect things to go smoothly. Here's what some others have had to say on the topic.

Dave D'Alessandro (Star Ledger)

Mike Vaccaro (NY Post)

Mark Feinsand (NY Daily News)

Andrew Marchand (ESPN New York)

Sweeny Murti (WFAN)

The Yankees top target on the free agent market is of course Cliff Lee. The lefty dominated the Yankees in both the 2009 and 2010 post-seasons, but wasn't up to his usual game in this year's World Series. His game 5 performance was good, but not good enough. And his game 1 showing was horrendous. It's put some doubt in the minds of fans and pundits, especially since Lee will be 33 next year and as Michael Kay pointed out on his radio show, he's only two years removed from a trip to the minors. Lee will want CC money, but will the Yankees be willing to give it to a player who will 40 when the contract expires.

That's also the subject of the new poll that we ask you to contribute to.

Rumors have it that the Yankees will not be spending money on outfielders Carl Crawford or Jayson Werth, preferring to stick with what they have or go a cheaper route if they want a change.

And if Lee goes elsewhere the Yankees will look into deals for younger pitchers such as Felix Hernandez or Zack Greinke, though the latter questioned his own ability to pitch in the Big Apple.

Brandon Laird (Eastern League) and Melky Mesa (Florida St. League) were named the top players in each of their leagues by Topps (boy do I miss buying packs of baseball cards). Mesa was also added to the 40-man roster to keep him from becoming a free agent.

Chad Gaudin, who never should have been brought back, was shown the door for a second time.

That's it for now...be back with more later...and be sure to check out my Hot Stove column Monday thru Friday on BaseballDigest.com beginning this Monday.

Snowy Sunday Hot Stove

Northern New Jersey didn't get as much snow as southern NJ or areas that normally get less snow. But it's a good day to get ready for football by talking some baseball hot stove.

Boston and Texas have been talking a Mike Lowell deal for weeks, but now things are off. A physical revealed torn ligaments in Lowell's thumb. The tear will require surgery and a 6-8 week recovery period. The deal could be revisited once Lowell recovers, but it's dead for now.

The Oakland A's and Coco Crisp are close to a one year deal per ESPN's Buster Olney. Crisp's career has gone downhill since his back to back star years (2004-2005) in Cleveland when he averaged 15 home runs and 70 RBI. He's still a threat to steal, but the power has diminished as has his OPS.

In case you missed it on Friday, the Cubs sent "Mr. Personality", Milton Bradley to the Mariners for overpaid/underachieving starting pitcher Carlos Silva. Bradley brings his ton of baggage to Seattle at $10 million per season for the next two years. He's a bargain, but do the M's really want to put up with Bradley's antics? He'll primarily split DH with Ken Griffey Jr. and see some time in the outfield as well. As for Silva, what were the Mariners thinking when they gave him a four year deal for $11-$12 million per year.

Jolly St. Nick

I don't know if he's a saint, but it appears Nick Johnson will be back in a Yankees uniform in 2010. That according to reports earlier today that Johnson and the Yankees are completing a 1-yr deal worth $5.5 million. Since Johnson will be the primary DH that also means that Johnny Damon is likely done wearing the pinstripes.

Johnson played for the Yankees from 2001-2003 before being shipped to the Montreal Expos as part of a package for right-handed starter Javier Vazquez. He averaged 14 home runs and 52 RBI in the latter two years. He spent last season with the Nationals before being dealt to the Florida Marlins at the trade deadline.

Johnson has been on the disabled list a number of times and that marked a good portion of his time in New York as well as while he was an up and coming prospect. His best year was in 2006 while a member of the Washington Nationals. He had career highs in average (.290), OPS (.948), home runs (23), and RBI (77). His high on-base percentage and ability to produce runs fits right into the Yankees' game plan.

Johnson not only replaces Hideki Matsui, who signed with the LA Angels, in the lineup, but also as a left-handed bat that can hit-left-handed pitching. He's a career .292 hitter against southpaws, including .316 last season.

12 Shopping Days 'til Xmas Hot Stove

Happy Hanukkah, no matter your spelling. When exactly is Festivus this year? I can just see Hal and Hank Steinbrenner competing in the feats of strength. Hank would probably start off well, but Hal would then use Hank's heft against him.

So what has happened since we checked in last. Winter meetings are obviously done. There have been signings, some rumors, some trades, and some near trades.

The Mets four year offer to free agent outfielder, and one time Mets minor leaguer, Jason Bay created quite the buzz on New York sports talk radio yesterday. Debates centered on whether or not the Mets offer was a legit one.

The offer of $65 million was just $5 million over an offer proposed by the Red Sox. Many fans and members of the media feel the Mets could have made a much bigger impact on the bidding with a bigger boost than 5 mill. Perhaps even throwing a 5th year into the deal may have made a lot more noise.

The Mets also made an offer to one of their top priorities, free agent catcher Bengie Molina.


The Rangers-Red Sox deal is still in the works and is still expected to happen. That's the one where Mike Lowell goes to Texas to take over first base, while catching prospect Max Ramirez heads to Beantown. Money is still being worked out and it's possible the Rangers still have concerns about Lowell's hip. It'll probably get done though.

Today is the deadline for non-tendering players. Chief among them will be the Yankees own, and one of my personal favorites, Chien-Ming Wang. I'll have more on this later.

Cards GM John Mozeliak confirmed that the team has made a formal offer in an attempt to retain the services of free agent Matt Holliday. Mozeliak told St. Louis Post-Dispatch columnist/radio host Bernie Miklaz Friday that he expects to hear back from Holliday's agent, Scott Boras, in 48 hours.

The Royals have signed veteran catcher Jason Kendall to a 2-yr, $6 million deal.

The White Sox have signed right-handed reliever J.J. Putz to a 1-yr, $3 million deal to set up closer Bobby Jenks. Putz was expected to be a large part of the Mets bullpen last season after his acquisition from Seattle, but injuries shortened his season.

Tony Pena Jr., son of the Yankees bench coach, and one time infielder has signed a minor league contract with the Giants as he continues his attempt to become a reliever.

FoxSports stated Thursday the Phillies are the front-runners to land Roy Halladay. Not so fast, said Phils' GM Reuben Amaro in response. Amaro may be playing his cards close to his vest, but he does not expect to land the Blue Jays ace.

The Giants and Marlins have had in-depth discussions about a deal that would bring second baseman Dan Uggla to the Bay area.

The Red Sox picked up pitcher Boof Bonser from the Twins for a PTBNL.

Baseball Moves On

While Yankees fans were busy attending the victory parade or watching it on TV, the front office of the other 29 teams were keeping busy. It's not even the general manager's meetings or Hot Stove time, but deals were already made today.

Carlos Gomez, a key player in the Johan Santana deal between the Mets and Twins, was sent back to the National League for the Brewers' J.J. Hardy. Gomez became a role player this year after Denard Span took over the Twins center field spot. He stole 33 bases in 2008, but posted just a .298 on-base percentage. Things got worse in '09 as Gomez's OBP dipped to just .287.

Hardy's stock had plummeted in Milwaukee. After averaging 25 home runs in 77 RBI in 2007-2008, Hardy hit just .229 this past season with 11 HR and 47 RBI. The Twins used the light hitting Nick Punto, Brendan Harris, and Matt Tolbert as shortstop this past season.

The White Sox acquired veteran Mark Teahen from the Kansas City Royals for infielders Josh Fields and Chris Getz, and cash. Teahen could be the Yankees regular third baseman or could move to right field to replace Jermaine Dye. The White Sox declined Dye's option for 2010 making the outfielder a free agent.

Deals actually began earlier this week when Tampa Bay sent Japanese import Aki Iwamura to the Pittsburgh Pirates (they don't just acquire Yankees pitchers) for pitcher Jesse Chavez. Iwamura missed much of the '09 season with a torn ACL.

Oh how Jeremy Hermida's stock has fallen. The one time major prospect in the Florida Marlins organization was dealt to the Boston Red Sox on Thursday for pitchers Hunter Jones and Jose Alvarez. After hitting .296-18-63 with an .870 OPS in 2007, Hermida's run production and OBP dipped the last two seasons. The left-handed hitter especially struggled against southpaws, hitting just .189.



Other moves:

The Phillies picked up the option on Cliff Lee for 2010. The Dodgers did the same for Manny Ramirez, while the Diamondbacks picked up pitcher Brandon Webb's option.
Fomer Yankee Bobby Abreu will stay in Anaheim after signing a new 2-yr, $19 million deal with the LA Angels. His former teammate Scott Proctor has signed a minor league deal with the Braves.

The Mariners claimed one time Mets prospect Yusmeiro Petit from the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Dbacks also declined the option on Chad Tracy.

Other players who will be free agents after having their options declined - Miguel Olivo (KC), Coco Crisp (KC), J.J. Putz (Mets), Yorvit Torrealba (Col), David Weathers (Mil), and Austin Kearns (Wash).

New Year Hot Stove

It's a new year and time for the first hot stove report of the new year. It also means nearly two months have gone by since players filed for free agency and there are still big names to be had. Manny Ramirez, Adam Dunn, Derek Lowe, Bobby Abreu, Trevor Hoffman, and Ken Griffey Jr. are just some of the players still looking for work.

Needless to say Lowe was not impressed by the Mets' 3-year, $36 mill offer.

Crosstown
Last off-season, Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts had to listen to continuous rumors about his pending departure to the Chicago Cubs. Now MASN (Mid-Atlantic Sports Network) reports that Orioles are talking to the Chicago White Sox about Roberts' availability. Gavin Floyd's name has been mentioned, though we don't understand trading a 17-game winner when winning is all about pitching.

Don't Let the Door Hit You....
Jon Heyman is reporting that the Dodgers and outfielder Andruw Jones are working to restructure the Curacao native's deal to allow them to move him to another team. Jones would be agreeing to defer half of the $20 million remaining on his contract. Seems like everyone except Ned Colletti knew the Dodgers should give Jones his contract. The restructure would also free up money to help try to resign Manny Ramirez.

Top Cat
Tony Clark has agreed to a 1-year, $800,000 deal that will keep him in Arizona, his baseball home since 2005.

Giants Among Men
The Giants were reportedly quietly looking into signing Manny Ramirez, but then shot down those rumors (or was that a ploy?). Now, according to Heyman, they're taking a look at the medical records of White Sox 3rd baseman Joe Crede to possibly fill their hot corner needs. It's been all downhill for the Giants since they signed Barry Zito. Bonds Karma perhaps?

Please Don't Follow me, Joe
Scott Proctor has escaped the clutches of Joe Torre for the second time, agreeing to a one year deal with the Marlins. Proctor had been non-tendered by the Dodgers.

Moor or Less
Former player Jeff Moorad can now add former Diamondbacks head honcho to his resume. Moorad resigned in order to pursue purchasing the Padres.

No Kidding?
Twins' catcher Joe Mauer has undergone minor kidney surgery (is there such a thing?) to remove an obstruction. The Minneapolis-Star Tribune reports that the situation is not serious and Mauer will be ready for Spring Training.

Old News
In case you missed it, the Angels got themselves a new closer the other day, free agent pitcher Brian Fuentes. To replace K-Rod, Fuentes was given a 2-year, $17.5 million deal. If things don't work out, Fuentes could be moved into a set up role with Scot Shields or Jose Arredondo assuming the closing duties.

New Year Hot Stove

It's a new year and time for the first hot stove report of the new year. It also means nearly two months have gone by since players filed for free agency and there are still big names to be had. Manny Ramirez, Adam Dunn, Derek Lowe, Bobby Abreu, Trevor Hoffman, and Ken Griffey Jr. are just some of the players still looking for work.

Needless to say Lowe was not impressed by the Mets' 3-year, $36 mill offer.

Crosstown
Last off-season, Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts had to listen to continuous rumors about his pending departure to the Chicago Cubs. Now MASN (Mid-Atlantic Sports Network) reports that Orioles are talking to the Chicago White Sox about Roberts' availability. Gavin Floyd's name has been mentioned, though we don't understand trading a 17-game winner when winning is all about pitching.

Don't Let the Door Hit You....
Jon Heyman is reporting that the Dodgers and outfielder Andruw Jones are working to restructure the Curacao native's deal to allow them to move him to another team. Jones would be agreeing to defer half of the $20 million remaining on his contract. Seems like everyone except Ned Colletti knew the Dodgers should give Jones his contract. The restructure would also free up money to help try to resign Manny Ramirez.

Top Cat
Tony Clark has agreed to a 1-year, $800,000 deal that will keep him in Arizona, his baseball home since 2005.

Giants Among Men
The Giants were reportedly quietly looking into signing Manny Ramirez, but then shot down those rumors (or was that a ploy?). Now, according to Heyman, they're taking a look at the medical records of White Sox 3rd baseman Joe Crede to possibly fill their hot corner needs. It's been all downhill for the Giants since they signed Barry Zito. Bonds Karma perhaps?

Please Don't Follow me, Joe
Scott Proctor has escaped the clutches of Joe Torre for the second time, agreeing to a one year deal with the Marlins. Proctor had been non-tendered by the Dodgers.

Moor or Less
Former player Jeff Moorad can now add former Diamondbacks head honcho to his resume. Moorad resigned in order to pursue purchasing the Padres.

No Kidding?
Twins' catcher Joe Mauer has undergone minor kidney surgery (is there such a thing?) to remove an obstruction. The Minneapolis-Star Tribune reports that the situation is not serious and Mauer will be ready for Spring Training.

Old News
In case you missed it, the Angels got themselves a new closer the other day, free agent pitcher Brian Fuentes. To replace K-Rod, Fuentes was given a 2-year, $17.5 million deal. If things don't work out, Fuentes could be moved into a set up role with Scot Shields or Jose Arredondo assuming the closing duties.

New Year Hot Stove

It's a new year and time for the first hot stove report of the new year. It also means nearly two months have gone by since players filed for free agency and there are still big names to be had. Manny Ramirez, Adam Dunn, Derek Lowe, Bobby Abreu, Trevor Hoffman, and Ken Griffey Jr are just some of the players still looking for work.

Needless to say Lowe was not impressed by the Mets 3 year, $36 mill offer.

Crosstown
Last off-season, Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts had to listen to continuous rumors about his pending departure to the Chicago Cubs. Now MASN (Mid-Atlantic Sports Network) reports that Orioles are talking to the Chicago White Sox about Roberts' availability. Gavin Floyd's name has been mentioned, though we don't understand trading a 17-game winner when winning is all about pitching.

Don't Let the Door Hit You....
Jon Heyman is reporting that the Dodgers and outfielder Andruw Jones are working to restructure the Curacao native's deal to allow them to move him to another team. Jones would be agreeing to defer half of the $20 million remaining on his contract. Seems like everyone except Ned Colletti knew the Dodgers should give Jones his contract. The restructure would also free up money to help try to resign Manny Ramirez.

Top Cat
Tony Clark has agreed to a 1 year, $800,000 deal that will keep him in Arizona, his baseball home since 2005.

Giants Among Men
The Giants were reportedly quietly looking into signing Manny Ramirez, but then shot down those rumors (or was that a ploy?). Now, according to Heyman, they're taking a look at the medical records of White Sox 3rd baseman Joe Crede to possibly fill their hot corner needs. It's been all downhill for the Giants since they signed Barry Zito. Bonds Karma perhaps?

Please Don't Follow me Joe
Scott Proctor has escaped the clutches of Joe Torre for the second time, agreeing to a one year deal with the Marlins. Proctor had been non-tendered by the Dodgers.

Moor or Less
Former player Jeff Moorad can now add former Diamonbacks head honcho to his resume. Moorad resigned in order to pursue purchasing the Padres.

No Kidding?
Twins catcher Joe Mauer has gone minor kidney surgery (is there such a thing?) to remove an obstruction. The Minneapolis-Star Tribune reports that the situation is not serious and Mauer will be ready for Spring Training.

Old News
In case you missed it, the Angels got themselves a new closer the other day, free agent pitcher Brian Fuentes. To replace K-Rod, Fuentes was given a 2 year, $17.5 million deal. If things don't work out, Fuentes could be moved into a set up role with Scot Shields or Jose Arredondo assuming the closing duties.

Hump Holiday Hot Stove

The Big Unit has found a new home to call his own. Randy Johnson agreed to a one year, $8 million deal on Friday to join the San Francisco Giants. Perhaps the Giants are hoping he can help Barry Zito suck less.

Willy Taveras has also found a new home. Taveras, who was non-tendered by the Rockies, has a new 2 year deal with the Reds.

Padres GM Kevin Towers says he'll still listen to offers for Jake Peavy, but is no longer shopping him. If so, that means the likelihood of Trevor Hoffman returning to San Diego is even less.

The Orioles have been in contact with Ivan Rodriguez and Greg Zaun as they look for a catcher to pave the way for Matt Wieters. Offers for Pudge and Jason Varitek are few and far between.

If you can believe anything Scott Boras says, the A's are interested in long time Angel Garrett Anderson. The A's have also had some preliminary discussions with former Yankee Bobby Abreu, but aren't close to a deal as of yet.

Roger Clemens' name took another blow, this time at Houston's Memorial Hermann Medical Center. The Roger Clemens Sports Institute for Medicine will no longer have the Rocket's name attached. We understand it, but at the same time Clemens donated $3 million to the hospital's pediatric wing.

UPDATE 9:07 EST

Ken Rosenthal is reporting that the Red Sox are close to signing free agent starter Brad Penny.

Hump Holiday Hot Stove

The Big Unit has found a new home to call his own. Randy Johnson agreed to a one year, $8 million deal on Friday to join the San Francisco Giants. Perhaps the Giants are hoping he can help Barry Zito suck less.

Willy Taveras has also found a new home. Taveras, who was non-tendered by the Rockies, has a new 2 year deal with the Reds.

Padres GM Kevin Towers says he'll still listen to offers for Jake Peavy, but is no longer shopping him. If so, that means the likelihood of Trevor Hoffman returning to San Diego is even less.

The Orioles have been in contact with Ivan Rodriguez and Greg Zaun as they look for a catcher to pave the way for Matt Wieters. Offers for Pudge and Jason Varitek are few and far between.

If you can believe anything Scott Boras says, the A's are interested in long time Angel Garrett Anderson. The A's have also had some preliminary discussions with former Yankee Bobby Abreu, but aren't close to a deal as of yet.

Roger Clemens' name took another blow, this time at Houston's Memorial Hermann Medical Center. The Roger Clemens Sports Institute for Medicine will no longer have the Rocket's name attached. We understand it, but at the same time Clemens donated $3 million to the hospital's pediatric wing.

UPDATE 9:07 EST

Ken Rosenthal is reporting that the Red Sox are close to signing free agent starter Brad Penny.

Freezing Our Asses Off Hot Stove

Red Sox Nearing Deal with Big Tex?

The rumors first came from a Boston TV station and now others are chiming in. Boston's front office is in the state of Texas with Mark Teixeira hammering out a deal with agent Scott Boras. That's right the Red Sox are close to signing the free agent first basemen.

What makes this particularly aggravating is that the Yankees never really jumped into the pool. They have never made an offer to Teixeira, despite a huge hole in the Yankees lineup. Perhaps the length of the contract - Teixeira has been receiving 8-year offers - has them spooked. Think Jason Giambi. Maybe they would rather go with a short-term solution like Manny Ramirez, who they think they can get with a 3-year deal.

Teixeira is a premier first baseman, both with the bat and the glove, and could provide long-term protection in the lineup for Alex Rodriguez (Nick Swisher won't do the trick). Mike Cameron certainly isnt' the answer for the Yankees lineup.


There's No Place Like Home

After reports circulated that Rafael Furcal was about to return to the Atlanta Braves, for whom he played shortstop from 2000-2005, Furcal decided to stay put with the LA Dodgers. The shortstop signed with the Dodgers prior to the 2006 season and is expected to ink a new 3-year deal. In response, the Braves have decided to stop doing business with Furcal's agents, The Wasserman Group.


News and Rumors

Trot Nixon has signed a minor league deal with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Jon Heyman feels the Mets and their own free agent Oliver Perez are too far apart on money to come to terms on a new deal.

Freezing Our Asses Off Hot Stove

Red Sox Nearing Deal with Big Tex?

The rumors first came from a Boston TV station and now others are chiming in. Boston's front office is in the state of Texas with Mark Teixeira hammering out a deal with agent Scott Boras. That's right the Red Sox are close to signing the free agent first basemen.

What makes this particularly aggravating is that the Yankees never really jumped into the pool. They have never made an offer to Teixeira, despite a huge hole in the Yankees lineup. Perhaps the length of the contract - Teixeira has been receiving 8-year offers - has them spooked. Think Jason Giambi. Maybe they would rather go with a short-term solution like Manny Ramirez, who they think they can get with a 3-year deal.

Teixeira is a premier first baseman, both with the bat and the glove, and could provide long-term protection in the lineup for Alex Rodriguez (Nick Swisher won't do the trick). Mike Cameron certainly isnt' the answer for the Yankees lineup.


There's No Place Like Home

After reports circulated that Rafael Furcal was about to return to the Atlanta Braves, for whom he played shortstop from 2000-2005, Furcal decided to stay put with the LA Dodgers. The shortstop signed with the Dodgers prior to the 2006 season and is expected to ink a new 3-year deal. In response, the Braves have decided to stop doing business with Furcal's agents, The Wasserman Group.


News and Rumors

Trot Nixon has signed a minor league deal with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Jon Heyman feels the Mets and their own free agent Oliver Perez are too far apart on money to come to terms on a new deal.

Vegas Update - Day 11:45 PM EST

No shock here, the San Jose Mercury News rumor that CC Sabathia rejected the Yankees offer was just that, a rumor. Word now is that Brian Cashman has flown to California to meet with Sabathia and his wife.

As expected, the Dodgers have agreed to a 3-year deal with Casey Blake that will pay the free agent corner man/outfielder $17.5 million. The pact includes a club option for 2012.

The Orioles and Reds finalized their Ramon Hernandez-Ryan Freel swap, with the Orioles also receiving prospects Brandon Waring and Justin Turner. The O's are sending cash along with their former catcher.

ESPN's Steve Phillips believes the Brewers are looking to move Prince Fielder, possibly in a deal that would bring closer J.J. Putz from Seattle.

The Rays have met with former Yankee Jason Giambi.

The Orioles are expected to announce the signing of free agent infielder Caesar Izturis to a 2-year deal.

Having already locked up K-Rod, Ken Rosenthal reports the Mets are increasing their efforts to sign Raul Ibanez.

Vegas Update - Day 11:45 PM EST

No shock here, the San Jose Mercury News rumor that CC Sabathia rejected the Yankees offer was just that, a rumor. Word now is that Brian Cashman has flown to California to meet with Sabathia and his wife.

As expected, the Dodgers have agreed to a 3-year deal with Casey Blake that will pay the free agent corner man/outfielder $17.5 million. The pact includes a club option for 2012.

The Orioles and Reds finalized their Ramon Hernandez-Ryan Freel swap, with the Orioles also receiving prospects Brandon Waring and Justin Turner. The O's are sending cash along with their former catcher.

ESPN's Steve Phillips believes the Brewers are looking to move Prince Fielder, possibly in a deal that would bring closer J.J. Putz from Seattle.

The Rays have met with former Yankee Jason Giambi.

The Orioles are expected to announce the signing of free agent infielder Caesar Izturis to a 2-year deal.

Having already locked up K-Rod, Ken Rosenthal reports the Mets are increasing their efforts to sign Raul Ibanez.

Vegas Update - Day 1 10:40 PM EST

Tony Jackson of the LA Daily News is reporting that the Dodgers and Casey Blake are close to an agreement that would pay the free agent $17 million over 3 years. The Dodgers became Blake's main suitor after the Twins refused to give him a third year.

Padres GM Kevin Towers says it's up to the Cubs if a Jake Peavy deal is to go down. Reportedly a deal is in place, but the Cubs have to sign off on it. Towers also said there's a greater possibility of bringing back Trevor Hoffman if Peavy is dealt.

Blue Jays G.M. J.P. Ricciardi denied that he had any talks with the Mets concerning B.J. Ryan.

A Rangers official feels that the Rays and Royals are in the lead in the race for Milton Bradley. If the Rangers want him back, Bradley should stay and continue to play for Ron Washington.

Jason Giambi apparently thinks he's going back to Oakland, but Billy Beane isn't moving too quickly.

Vegas Update - Day 1 10:40 PM EST

Tony Jackson of the LA Daily News is reporting that the Dodgers and Casey Blake are close to an agreement that would pay the free agent $17 million over 3 years. The Dodgers became Blake's main suitor after the Twins refused to give him a third year.

Padres GM Kevin Towers says it's up to the Cubs if a Jake Peavy deal is to go down. Reportedly a deal is in place, but the Cubs have to sign off on it. Towers also said there's a greater possibility of bringing back Trevor Hoffman if Peavy is dealt.

Blue Jays G.M. J.P. Ricciardi denied that he had any talks with the Mets concerning B.J. Ryan.

A Rangers official feels that the Rays and Royals are in the lead in the race for Milton Bradley. If the Rangers want him back, Bradley should stay and continue to play for Ron Washington.

Jason Giambi apparently thinks he's going back to Oakland, but Billy Beane isn't moving too quickly.

Vegas Update - Day 1 8:15 EST

The big news tonight, if it is to be believed, is that the Braves are nearing an agreement with the #2 free agent pitcher, A.J. Burnett. That news comes courtesy of ESPN's Steve Phillips. While we take most of what Phillips usually says with a grain of salt, he's got Peter Gammons' blessing on this one.

ESPN cohorts Jayson Stark and Jerry Crasnick, however, don't believe the Braves are a sure thing and the Yankees might be willing to top the Braves offer.

Jon Heyman believes the Mets offer to K-Rod is a 2-year deal worth $24 million, with a vesting option for a third year. We don't see K-Rod jumping at that one.

Peter Abraham reports that the Yankes believe CC Sabathia's sincerity about the possibility of playing in New York.

The Washington Post's sources are telling them the Mets and Red Sox are talking about a deal that would send catcher Brian Schneider to Boston. Schneider was acquired by the Mets prior to the 2008 season.

The Seattle Times believes that a J.J. Putz deal to the Tigers could become a reality, which would really screw up our roto hopes that Fernando Rodney remains closer.