Friday Hot Stove

Seems like the Twins' beat writers are creating more havoc this winter than those covering the Yankees. Yesterday it was Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star Tribune stating the Twins were willing to do a deal with the Mets for 5 prospects, but the Mets were unwilling to include Fernando Martinez.

Mike Francesa, a legend in his own mind, said he spoke to a Mets official, who stated that no talks between the two teams had not included Jose Reyes. The official also felt a deal would be done within 2 weeks, with whichever team it happens.

Obviously all the teams are balking at unloading a bunch of prospects and then giving Santana a huge contract.

The Texas Rangers are said to be close to signing free agent pitcher Jason Jennings to a multi-year deal. Imagine that, the Rangers getting pitching.

The Mariners brought back Chris Reitsma with a minor league deal, and former Yankee Josh Phelps inked a minor league contract with the Cardinals.

The Rays brains are getting together to figure out whether to give the 3rd Base job to Evan Longoria or start out the stud prospect at Triple-A. Hopefully the Rays make better decisions than they have in the past.

Akinori Otsuka is undergoing elbow surgery though it is not known if it is Tommy John surgery. Why did he wait so long?

Tim Wakefield can relax (actually Jason Varitek can relax), the Red Sox have brought back his personal catcher, Doug Mirabelli, with a 1 year deal.

The Mariners have joined the Marlins in showing interest in Luis Gonzalez, especially if the M's decide to deal Adam Jones.