The Chicago Cubs traded outfielder Angel Pagan to the New York Mets for 2 minor leaguers according to the Chicago Tribune.
The Cubs will receive outfielder Corey Coles and right-hander Ryan Meyers.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Angels, White Sox talking Konerko
1.5.08 9:46pm PST
Dave van Dyck of the Chicago Tribune has an article out, saying White Sox GM Kenny Williams has not had any conversations with Angels' GM Tony Reagins since the Winter Meetings.
I had a hard time believing this rumor from the start, I didn't think there was any way the Angels would part with both Kendrick and Santana for Konerko, there was no chance of that.
1.5.08 3:21pm PST
Tom Singer of MLB.com has an article out on the Angels/White Sox trade talk as well.
1.5.08 9:19am PST
A rumor I heard yesterday, confirmed today, that the Angels are talking to the White Sox about a deal for 1st baseman Paul Konerko.
The players that could be heading to Chicago are Howie Kendrick and Ervin Santana but the White Sox are looking for a package that includes Chone Figgins.
Mets still interested in Blanton
According to the NY Daily News, the New York Mets are still interested in talking to Oakland about right-hander Joe Blanton, if the A's decide to move him.
A's GM Billy Beane confirmed that the Mets have asked to keep them in mind if he does decide to talk about a deal for Blanton saying "the Mets are interested in doing something there and to keep them in mind, just as it was with Haren."
With the A's in full rebuilding mode, I wouldn't be a bit surprised if the A's did trade Blanton, especially if they can get at least 2 top prospects in return after getting 6 from Arizona in their trade for Dan Haren.
Pirates add Dessens to bullpen
The Pittsburgh Pirates finally found the right-hander they needed out of their bullpen, they signed veteran Elmer Dessens to a 1-year minor league deal.
Dessens is just coming off a 2-year $3.4M deal, but it should be considerably less with the current contract he just signed with the Pirates.
We'll see how Dessens does in Spring Training, he really struggled with the Brewers and Rockies last season, posting ERA's of 6.60 and 7.58 respectively.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Cardinals re-sign Aaron Miles
According to CBS Sportsline, the St. Louis Cardinals have re-signed 2nd baseman Aaron Miles to a 1-year $1.4M deal on Friday.
On top of his base salary, Miles can earn $250,000 in performance bonuses.
Marlins sign Cantu
The Florida Marlins have signed infielder Jorge Cantu to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training.
Cantu should make a run at the starting 3rd base job that came open after the departure of Miguel Cabrera after he was traded to the Tigers.
Interview with Lyle Spencer of MLB.com
I got the chance to interview Lyle Spencer of MLB.com, he covered the San Diego Padres for the last 2 seasons and is now covering the Los Angels Angels of Anaheim.
Baseball-Rumors: I have to start out with a non-baseball question, LSU or Ohio State?
Lyle Spencer: That's a hard decision, but I think LSU should win the game because they have a home field advantage to a certain extent. I really haven't seen enough of either team to make an educated pick. Ohio State seems to have a lot of problems with the SEC, so I think LSU should come out on top.
Baseball-Rumors: Do you have a vote for the Hall of Fame?
Lyle Spencer: Yes, I do.
Baseball-Rumors: Who were your votes for the class of 2008?
Lyle Spencer: My votes were for Bert Blyleven, Goose Gossage, Andre Dawson, Jim Rice, Don Mattingly, Dave Concepcion and Alan Trammell.
I'm partial to that era of the game, I loved watching guys like Don Mattingly play the game. I'm not a big fan of the moneyball idea that a lot of teams preach these days, but the game has changed so much in the last 10-15 years.
Baseball-Rumors: New Angels General Manager Tony Reagins, how different is he from former GM Bill Stoneman?
Lyle Spencer: I'm not sure yet, I'm fairly new to covering the Angels so I haven't really gotten a chance to get a feel for Reagins yet.
From what I've seen so far, I think Tony is more of a risk taker. He's more likely to pull the trigger on a deal than Stoneman, he's not going to take more time analyzing the deal. I think Reagins was willing to part with more (in the Cabrera deal) than Stoneman ever would have. Stoneman was a very bright guy, but I think he over-analyzed deals or moves.
Baseball-Rumors: Does the addition of Torii Hunter mean the departure of Gary Mathews Jr.?
Lyle Spencer: I don't think so. I think, because Garrett Anderson is probably in his last year with the Angels, there's no real urgency to trade Mathews. There's been no serious interest in Mathews from other teams, so I doubt you'll see a trade for him. Not to say it won't happen, because it's still very early in the process.
Baseball-Rumors: You covered both the Padres and now with the Angels, how are the two teams different with the players on the field as well as the way their front offices go about their business?
Lyle Spencer: The Angels clubhouse is more business like, quiet, where the Padres' clubhouse has a more relaxed, easy going feel to it. I think, with the addition of Hunter to the Angels, I think he'll loosen up that clubhouse.
As far as the front office, Kevin Towers is very relaxed, he's a great guy, very friendly and easy to deal with, especially with the media. Bill Stoneman really wasn't a media guy, you didn't see a lot of sound bytes from him, but I think Reagins could be very different from that, we'll see.
Baseball-Rumors: I know you must have spent a lot of time with Tony Gwynn. What was his reaction when he saw his son going up against Trevor Hoffman at the end of last season, a guy that watched the younger Gwynn growing up?
Lyle Spencer: I'm sure he was very conflicted. On one hand, he's a father and he's pulling for his son, on the other hand I'm sure he's partial to the Padres as well, but they say "blood is thicker than water", so that should tell you a lot.
Baseball-Rumors: Would Tony ever consider managing in the big leagues do you think?
Lyle Spencer: No, absolutely not. He has a great situation right now with San Diego State, it's close to home, he can do what he wants to do, it's the ideal situation. I don't think managing in the majors has ever appealed to him.
Baseball-Rumors: Is this the last year for Trevor Hoffman as a Padre?
Lyle Spencer: It depends on how this season goes. I know they have an option for the 2009 season ($7.5M option w/ $2M buyout), but I know the Padres really like Heath Bell.
I was really surprised that Trevor didn't take the Indians offer, especially since it was significantly more than the Padres offer. The decision on Trevor, I'm sure, is going to be a difficult one but Sandy Alderson won't make that decision based on it being sentimental, that won't enter into it at all.
Baseball-Rumors: Same question in terms of Francisco Rodriguez?
Lyle Spencer: It might be, KRod is going to look for $11-$12M/year and I don't know if the Angels are willing to pay that. There's still concern with his arm if it's going to hold up, but there's no doubt he's still a very good young pitcher. It's going to be a tough call on him as well.
Baseball-Rumors: I have to start out with a non-baseball question, LSU or Ohio State?
Lyle Spencer: That's a hard decision, but I think LSU should win the game because they have a home field advantage to a certain extent. I really haven't seen enough of either team to make an educated pick. Ohio State seems to have a lot of problems with the SEC, so I think LSU should come out on top.
Baseball-Rumors: Do you have a vote for the Hall of Fame?
Lyle Spencer: Yes, I do.
Baseball-Rumors: Who were your votes for the class of 2008?
Lyle Spencer: My votes were for Bert Blyleven, Goose Gossage, Andre Dawson, Jim Rice, Don Mattingly, Dave Concepcion and Alan Trammell.
I'm partial to that era of the game, I loved watching guys like Don Mattingly play the game. I'm not a big fan of the moneyball idea that a lot of teams preach these days, but the game has changed so much in the last 10-15 years.
Baseball-Rumors: New Angels General Manager Tony Reagins, how different is he from former GM Bill Stoneman?
Lyle Spencer: I'm not sure yet, I'm fairly new to covering the Angels so I haven't really gotten a chance to get a feel for Reagins yet.
From what I've seen so far, I think Tony is more of a risk taker. He's more likely to pull the trigger on a deal than Stoneman, he's not going to take more time analyzing the deal. I think Reagins was willing to part with more (in the Cabrera deal) than Stoneman ever would have. Stoneman was a very bright guy, but I think he over-analyzed deals or moves.
Baseball-Rumors: Does the addition of Torii Hunter mean the departure of Gary Mathews Jr.?
Lyle Spencer: I don't think so. I think, because Garrett Anderson is probably in his last year with the Angels, there's no real urgency to trade Mathews. There's been no serious interest in Mathews from other teams, so I doubt you'll see a trade for him. Not to say it won't happen, because it's still very early in the process.
Baseball-Rumors: You covered both the Padres and now with the Angels, how are the two teams different with the players on the field as well as the way their front offices go about their business?
Lyle Spencer: The Angels clubhouse is more business like, quiet, where the Padres' clubhouse has a more relaxed, easy going feel to it. I think, with the addition of Hunter to the Angels, I think he'll loosen up that clubhouse.
As far as the front office, Kevin Towers is very relaxed, he's a great guy, very friendly and easy to deal with, especially with the media. Bill Stoneman really wasn't a media guy, you didn't see a lot of sound bytes from him, but I think Reagins could be very different from that, we'll see.
Baseball-Rumors: I know you must have spent a lot of time with Tony Gwynn. What was his reaction when he saw his son going up against Trevor Hoffman at the end of last season, a guy that watched the younger Gwynn growing up?
Lyle Spencer: I'm sure he was very conflicted. On one hand, he's a father and he's pulling for his son, on the other hand I'm sure he's partial to the Padres as well, but they say "blood is thicker than water", so that should tell you a lot.
Baseball-Rumors: Would Tony ever consider managing in the big leagues do you think?
Lyle Spencer: No, absolutely not. He has a great situation right now with San Diego State, it's close to home, he can do what he wants to do, it's the ideal situation. I don't think managing in the majors has ever appealed to him.
Baseball-Rumors: Is this the last year for Trevor Hoffman as a Padre?
Lyle Spencer: It depends on how this season goes. I know they have an option for the 2009 season ($7.5M option w/ $2M buyout), but I know the Padres really like Heath Bell.
I was really surprised that Trevor didn't take the Indians offer, especially since it was significantly more than the Padres offer. The decision on Trevor, I'm sure, is going to be a difficult one but Sandy Alderson won't make that decision based on it being sentimental, that won't enter into it at all.
Baseball-Rumors: Same question in terms of Francisco Rodriguez?
Lyle Spencer: It might be, KRod is going to look for $11-$12M/year and I don't know if the Angels are willing to pay that. There's still concern with his arm if it's going to hold up, but there's no doubt he's still a very good young pitcher. It's going to be a tough call on him as well.
Clemens, Pettitte asked to testify before Congress
According to an AP Report, Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte as well as ex-trainer Brian McNamee and former Mets clubhouse attendant Kirk Radomski, have been asked to testify before the a congressional committee on January 16th.
Also asked to speak in front of Congress was former Yankee Chuck Knoblauch.
If you didn't think stuff was going to hit the fan before, this should change your mind. Roger Clemens and Brian McNamee Round 1...this should be fun.
Also asked to speak in front of Congress was former Yankee Chuck Knoblauch.
If you didn't think stuff was going to hit the fan before, this should change your mind. Roger Clemens and Brian McNamee Round 1...this should be fun.
Davis gets minor league deal with Rangers
According to T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com, the Texas Rangers have signed right-hander Jason Davis to a minor league deal with an invite to Spring Training.
Davis was 2-0 with a 5.84 ERA in 24 relief appearances with the Cleveland Indians and the Seattle Mariners in 2007 and 0-2 with a 7.11 ERA in five appearances in Triple-A.
Doesn't sound like the kind of pitcher that's going to do very well in one of the biggest hitter's parks in baseball.
Royals sign Hideo Nomo
The Kansas City Royals are bringing back a pitcher that hasn't thrown a pitch in the big leagues since 2005, 39-year-old Hideo Nomo.
Nomo has signed a minor league deal with the Royals with an invite to Spring Training. The other benefit to the Royals, if he makes the team out of Spring Training, is he can be a mentor to Yasuhiko Yabuta.
Brewers invite Nix, Bray to camp
The Milwaukee Brewers have invited outfielder Laynce Nix and right-hander Stephen Bray to camp as nonroster players to their spring training camp.
They also invited 4 other nonroster players to camp. They invited right-handers Scott Cassidy and Mark DiFelice, left-hander Chris Narveson and infielder Ozzie Chavez.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Rockies close to signing right-hander Towers
According to Thomas Harding of MLB.com, the Colorado Rockies are close to signing free agent right-hander Josh Towers to a 1-year $1.8M plus incentives.
Both sides have discussed a deal where Towers would earn $400,000 if placed on the 40-man roster. If he makes the 25-man roster, his rate would go up to $1.8M.
Yankees will not sign Clemens in 2008
Not that this is comes as a surprise to a lot of people, but during a telephone interview yesterday with NY Daily News writer Anthony McCarron, Yankees' Senior VP Hank Steinbrenner says the Yankees will not sign Roger Clemens if he plays in 2008.
I can't imagine that Clemens would attempt to play in 2008, especially with the Mitchell Report hanging over him. I think it's time for him to step away from the playing stage and begin his 2nd career in the Houston Astros' organization.
Clement signs $1.5M 1-year deal with Cards
1.3.07 8:56pm PST
According to the AP, the Cardinals deal with Matt Clement is a 1-year $1.5M deal and he can earn $5.25M in performance bonuses plus an $8.75M option for 2009.
1.3.07 6:17pm PST
After talk that Clement wanted to sign with the Pirates or Indians, he ends up signing a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals according to Matthew Leach of MLB.com.
The Cardinals did not release the details of the deal, but it supposedly has incentives based on performance as well as an option for 2009.
Brian McTaggart of the Houston Chronicle
Brian McTaggart covers the Houston Astros for the Houston Chronicle. He's actually one of my favorite guys to talk to, no offense to the others I've had a great time talking with, but Brian used to cover the Western Athletic Conference, which is the conference Fresno State currently resides.
Baseball-Rumors: Let's start with the Astros rotation at this point. Assuming Oswalt, Backe, Rodriguez and Woody Williams, who do you see filling the #5 spot in the rotation?
Brian McTaggart: The name I keep hearing to fill that spot is Chris Sampson, who did pretty well in the rotation last year before having arm troubles. Felipe Paulino and Fernando Nieve and perhaps Jack Cassel will also be in the mix.
Baseball-Rumors: Did the Astros give up too many players when they acquired Jose Valverde and Miguel Tejada and if they waited until after the Mitchell Report was released, could they have given up less for Tejada?
Brian McTaggart: Perhaps, but it wouldn't surprise me that despite the Astros' denials they didn't think Tejada would be in the report that they pulled the trigger before the report came out to make it easier to get him. A trade like that after his name came out would hav looked pretty bad.
Baseball-Rumors: How strong of an interest did they have in Mark Prior? From what I've heard out of San Diego, the Astros offered more guaranteed money.
Brian McTaggart: Well, this is over. Based on what Prior got from SD, he must not have much left.
Baseball-Rumors: The Astros signed young right-hander Jack Cassell, what are your thoughts on him and does he have a good shot at being their 5th starter?
Brian McTaggart: I don't know much about him, but he has a shot if he pitches in the spring. Still, I think some others have an inside track on that.
Baseball-Rumors: Are they done dealing at this point or might we see a few final moves prior to pitchers and catchers reporting in February?
Brian McTaggart: I think the Astros are done. Their starting rotation, bench and bullpen are set, and there's no substantial moves they can make on the starting pitching front.
Baseball-Rumors: Let's start with the Astros rotation at this point. Assuming Oswalt, Backe, Rodriguez and Woody Williams, who do you see filling the #5 spot in the rotation?
Brian McTaggart: The name I keep hearing to fill that spot is Chris Sampson, who did pretty well in the rotation last year before having arm troubles. Felipe Paulino and Fernando Nieve and perhaps Jack Cassel will also be in the mix.
Baseball-Rumors: Did the Astros give up too many players when they acquired Jose Valverde and Miguel Tejada and if they waited until after the Mitchell Report was released, could they have given up less for Tejada?
Brian McTaggart: Perhaps, but it wouldn't surprise me that despite the Astros' denials they didn't think Tejada would be in the report that they pulled the trigger before the report came out to make it easier to get him. A trade like that after his name came out would hav looked pretty bad.
Baseball-Rumors: How strong of an interest did they have in Mark Prior? From what I've heard out of San Diego, the Astros offered more guaranteed money.
Brian McTaggart: Well, this is over. Based on what Prior got from SD, he must not have much left.
Baseball-Rumors: The Astros signed young right-hander Jack Cassell, what are your thoughts on him and does he have a good shot at being their 5th starter?
Brian McTaggart: I don't know much about him, but he has a shot if he pitches in the spring. Still, I think some others have an inside track on that.
Baseball-Rumors: Are they done dealing at this point or might we see a few final moves prior to pitchers and catchers reporting in February?
Brian McTaggart: I think the Astros are done. Their starting rotation, bench and bullpen are set, and there's no substantial moves they can make on the starting pitching front.
Bill Shaikin of the LA Times
Bill Shaikin of the LA Times was good enough to give me a few minutes and talk Dodgers baseball.
Baseball-Rumors: Clayton Kershaw, we heard his name mentioned in trade rumors but the Dodgers weren't willing to deal him. How good is this kid and will we see him with the Dodgers in 2008?
Bill Shaikin: The Dodgers were reluctant to deal Kershaw, but not unwilling. That said, they consider him one of the top pitching prospects in baseball. He'll probably start the season at Double-A. He could get to L.A. by September if he pitches well and the Dodgers have the need, but James McDonald would be the prospect more likely to pitch in L.A. next season.
Baseball-Rumors: How is Jason Schmidt coming along in his rehab? Is he expected to be ready for Spring Training?
Bill Shaikin: No one will know about Schmidt until spring training, no matter what he might do in offseason workouts. There isn't enough of a track record from his surgery. I'm not sure when he might pitch next season, but I would be stunned if he made the opening day roster.
Baseball-Rumors: How excited are the Dodgers to have Joe Torre as their manager?
Bill Shaikin: He's the highest-paid manager in the game. But Torre would be the first to tell you players win games, not managers.
Baseball-Rumors: The NL West has gone from being called the "NL Worst" just a few years ago, to being arguably the strongest division in baseball. What do you attribute that to?
Bill Shaikin: The AL Central is the strongest division right now. But the NL West is competitive because every team has excellent starting pitching -- Peavy/Young/Maddux in San Diego, Cain/Lincecum/Zito in San Francisco, Webb/Haren/maybe Randy Johnson in Arizona, Francis/Jimenez/Cook in Colorado, Penny/Billingsley/Lowe in L.A.
Baseball-Rumors: Veteran outfielder, and free agent, Luis Gonzalez has made it known that he would like to return to the Dodgers, is there any interest from the Dodgers in bringing him back or are they moving in another direction?
Bill Shaikin: There's no interest from the Dodgers in bringing him back.
Baseball-Rumors: Clayton Kershaw, we heard his name mentioned in trade rumors but the Dodgers weren't willing to deal him. How good is this kid and will we see him with the Dodgers in 2008?
Bill Shaikin: The Dodgers were reluctant to deal Kershaw, but not unwilling. That said, they consider him one of the top pitching prospects in baseball. He'll probably start the season at Double-A. He could get to L.A. by September if he pitches well and the Dodgers have the need, but James McDonald would be the prospect more likely to pitch in L.A. next season.
Baseball-Rumors: How is Jason Schmidt coming along in his rehab? Is he expected to be ready for Spring Training?
Bill Shaikin: No one will know about Schmidt until spring training, no matter what he might do in offseason workouts. There isn't enough of a track record from his surgery. I'm not sure when he might pitch next season, but I would be stunned if he made the opening day roster.
Baseball-Rumors: How excited are the Dodgers to have Joe Torre as their manager?
Bill Shaikin: He's the highest-paid manager in the game. But Torre would be the first to tell you players win games, not managers.
Baseball-Rumors: The NL West has gone from being called the "NL Worst" just a few years ago, to being arguably the strongest division in baseball. What do you attribute that to?
Bill Shaikin: The AL Central is the strongest division right now. But the NL West is competitive because every team has excellent starting pitching -- Peavy/Young/Maddux in San Diego, Cain/Lincecum/Zito in San Francisco, Webb/Haren/maybe Randy Johnson in Arizona, Francis/Jimenez/Cook in Colorado, Penny/Billingsley/Lowe in L.A.
Baseball-Rumors: Veteran outfielder, and free agent, Luis Gonzalez has made it known that he would like to return to the Dodgers, is there any interest from the Dodgers in bringing him back or are they moving in another direction?
Bill Shaikin: There's no interest from the Dodgers in bringing him back.
Mark Sheldon of MLB.com
Mark Sheldon covers the Cincinnati Reds for MLB.com and he was gracious enough to give me a few minutes on a Thursday night and talk Reds baseball.
Baseball-Rumors: Let's start with Francisco Cordero. The Reds signed him to a 4-year $46M deal with a 5th year option. Is that too much money for a guy who's topped 40 saves only twice in his career?
Mark Sheldon: The Reds had to overpay for a guy that would be able to help their bullpen, which is something they badly need to do. They have guys like Weathers, Bill Bray, Gary Majewski, Todd Coffey, they just need to find cohesion in that bullpen.
Cincinnati isn't #1 in any free agent's mind, so they needed to overpay to land that kind of pitcher.
Baseball-Rumors: When the Reds started their search for a new manager, how quickly did Dusty Baker's name come up?
Mark Sheldon: Baker was THE candidate for them. Usually, the Reds have hired from within, but ownership wanted a big name and a proven winner and they think they have that with Dusty Baker.
Baseball-Rumors: The decision to trade Josh Hamilton, did that surprise you?
Mark Sheldon: A colleague of mine in Texas, T.R. Sullivan, mentioned the Rangers interest in Josh Hamilton but I really didn't think the Reds could trade a player like Hamilton, who could be a 5-tool player.
I received a lot of emails from fans saying they should have gotten more, they should have traded Ryal Freel instead, but the Reds needed pitching and Volquez is the 3rd best pitching prospect in the Rangers' system.
Baseball-Rumors: There had been a lot of talk that the Reds and Orioles were talking about a deal for Erik Bedard, but the Reds were unwilling to part with Jay Bruce. Have the 2 teams continued discussions?
Mark Sheldon: I don't think they are at this point, there's really been no activity. I think the Reds aren't willing to part with a prospect like Jay Bruce for a player that's going to be a free agent in 2 years.
For the Reds though, Bedard would be that veteran free agent that gives them a good rotation in a soft division like the NL Central, but again, I just don't think the Reds are going to send top prospects to get him.
Baseball-Rumors: Adam Dunn and Ken Griffey Jr, do you expect either player to be with the Reds after the 2008 season?
Mark Sheldon: I think the Reds will keep one of them, I don't think both will be back. I know Dunn has expressed his desire to stay with Cincinnati, so I think you'll see the Reds work out an extension with him at some point.
As far as Griffey goes, I think he's resurrected himself this past season. His status with the Reds really depends on when Jay Bruce is going to be major league ready.
Baseball-Rumors: The Reds picked up Sergio Valenzuela via the Rule 5 draft, what kind of player is he and why did the Reds like him so much seeing as his numbers aren't great.
Mark Sheldon: I think the Reds see the right upside with him. He's got a good fastball, changeup and slider. You'll see him as a reliever this season but they eventually want to move him into the starting rotation.
They feel he's a low risk move. They want to be able to work with him during spring training and make him major league ready enough to be an effective pitcher.
Baseball-Rumors: Let's start with Francisco Cordero. The Reds signed him to a 4-year $46M deal with a 5th year option. Is that too much money for a guy who's topped 40 saves only twice in his career?
Mark Sheldon: The Reds had to overpay for a guy that would be able to help their bullpen, which is something they badly need to do. They have guys like Weathers, Bill Bray, Gary Majewski, Todd Coffey, they just need to find cohesion in that bullpen.
Cincinnati isn't #1 in any free agent's mind, so they needed to overpay to land that kind of pitcher.
Baseball-Rumors: When the Reds started their search for a new manager, how quickly did Dusty Baker's name come up?
Mark Sheldon: Baker was THE candidate for them. Usually, the Reds have hired from within, but ownership wanted a big name and a proven winner and they think they have that with Dusty Baker.
Baseball-Rumors: The decision to trade Josh Hamilton, did that surprise you?
Mark Sheldon: A colleague of mine in Texas, T.R. Sullivan, mentioned the Rangers interest in Josh Hamilton but I really didn't think the Reds could trade a player like Hamilton, who could be a 5-tool player.
I received a lot of emails from fans saying they should have gotten more, they should have traded Ryal Freel instead, but the Reds needed pitching and Volquez is the 3rd best pitching prospect in the Rangers' system.
Baseball-Rumors: There had been a lot of talk that the Reds and Orioles were talking about a deal for Erik Bedard, but the Reds were unwilling to part with Jay Bruce. Have the 2 teams continued discussions?
Mark Sheldon: I don't think they are at this point, there's really been no activity. I think the Reds aren't willing to part with a prospect like Jay Bruce for a player that's going to be a free agent in 2 years.
For the Reds though, Bedard would be that veteran free agent that gives them a good rotation in a soft division like the NL Central, but again, I just don't think the Reds are going to send top prospects to get him.
Baseball-Rumors: Adam Dunn and Ken Griffey Jr, do you expect either player to be with the Reds after the 2008 season?
Mark Sheldon: I think the Reds will keep one of them, I don't think both will be back. I know Dunn has expressed his desire to stay with Cincinnati, so I think you'll see the Reds work out an extension with him at some point.
As far as Griffey goes, I think he's resurrected himself this past season. His status with the Reds really depends on when Jay Bruce is going to be major league ready.
Baseball-Rumors: The Reds picked up Sergio Valenzuela via the Rule 5 draft, what kind of player is he and why did the Reds like him so much seeing as his numbers aren't great.
Mark Sheldon: I think the Reds see the right upside with him. He's got a good fastball, changeup and slider. You'll see him as a reliever this season but they eventually want to move him into the starting rotation.
They feel he's a low risk move. They want to be able to work with him during spring training and make him major league ready enough to be an effective pitcher.
Clement signs with Cardinals
After talk that Clement wanted to sign with the Pirates or Indians, he ends up signing a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals according to Matthew Leach of MLB.com.
The Cardinals did not release the details of the deal, but it supposedly has incentives based on performance as well as an option for 2009.
Swisher dealt to White Sox
The Oakland A's have dealt yet another piece of their roster, sending Nick Swisher to the White Sox for 3 minor league prospects. The A's will receive left-hander Gio Gonzalez, right-hander Fautino De Los Santos and outfielder Ryan Sweeney.
It's official, after dealing their top starter (Dan Haren) and bester hitter (Nick Swisher) the A's have begun their rebuilding project.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Josh Rosenberg Xtra Sports 1360 AM San Diego
Josh is a guy that I've enjoyed listening to when he was on the air on XX Sports Radio 1090 AM and is now with Xtra Sports 1360 AM in San Diego, I got a chance to talk Padres baseball with him.
Baseball-Rumors: Let's start with Jim Edmonds, was he a good move in your opinion?
Josh Rosenberg: He's not an impact move, he's the type of big name, past his prime player that the Padres are famous for. I don't know if he has as much to offer as he used to, but you gotta love his defense.
Baseball-Rumors: The Padres and Mike Cameron couldn't come to an agreement on how much a 2-year contract would be worth. Now that he's running out of options, is it possible that he could take a 1-year deal to come back to San Diego?
Josh Rosenberg: Not at all, the Padres' bid farewell to Mike Cameron when they brought in Jim Edmonds. I think Cameron is still capable of hitting 20-25 HR's for whoever he signs with.
Baseball-Rumors: Who do you think Cameron will sign with?
Josh Rosenberg: If he accepts a platoon role, you might see the Yankees and Angels interested, but in a full time role I think either the Rockies or Giants may land him.
Baseball-Rumors: Are the Padres done dealing at this point?
Josh Rosenberg: I think they are done at this point. You've got the guys that were there last season (Hairston, Bard, Barrett, Adrian, Kouz, Khalil, etc), then you add the guys coming in, the addition of Edmonds, Wolf, Rush, Prior, Headley will probably make this team out of Spring Training, so I think these are the guys you'll see next season.
Baseball-Rumors: Were you surprised they let Geoff Blum and Doug Brocail walk in free agency so easily?
Josh Rosenberg: It goes along with Sandy's image of what an impact player is, those guys weren't that.
As far as Brocail goes, I don't think he'll be missed. The Padres are so deep in their bullpen that they'll fill his role pretty easily.
With Blum, I think a lot of fans were upset that they didn't bring him back, he was a fan favorite. I don't think a lot of fans understood why they didn't want to bring Blum back, but they brought in Robert Fick.
Baseball-Rumors: Chase Headley is going to be working out at Petco Park, as early as this month, in left field. Do you expect him to be the starter come opening day?
Josh Rosenberg: No, it's not really his job to lose. The Padres like Scott Hairston, so I think he'll be the Opening Day starter in 2008. Hairston had the best 10-day stretch of anyone in baseball when he showed up in San Diego, he was a huge part of this ballclub down the stretch. Question becomes, can he do it for a full season?
Baseball-Rumors: Tad Iguchi, do you think he was the steal of the offseason for the Padres?
Josh Rosenberg: He's a definite positive, I think he'll excel at Petco Park and he's a good fit with this team. He's a definite upgrade over Marcus Giles at 2nd base.
Baseball-Rumors: Is this Trevor Hoffman's final year with the San Diego Padres?
Josh Rosenberg: I think so, yes. Trevor definetely will come out with something to prove this season, but I think that Heath Bell is ready to assume the closer's role and he wants to be a closer. It may not be his final year in baseball, but I don't think he'll be back with the Padres in 2009.
Baseball-Rumors: Let's start with Jim Edmonds, was he a good move in your opinion?
Josh Rosenberg: He's not an impact move, he's the type of big name, past his prime player that the Padres are famous for. I don't know if he has as much to offer as he used to, but you gotta love his defense.
Baseball-Rumors: The Padres and Mike Cameron couldn't come to an agreement on how much a 2-year contract would be worth. Now that he's running out of options, is it possible that he could take a 1-year deal to come back to San Diego?
Josh Rosenberg: Not at all, the Padres' bid farewell to Mike Cameron when they brought in Jim Edmonds. I think Cameron is still capable of hitting 20-25 HR's for whoever he signs with.
Baseball-Rumors: Who do you think Cameron will sign with?
Josh Rosenberg: If he accepts a platoon role, you might see the Yankees and Angels interested, but in a full time role I think either the Rockies or Giants may land him.
Baseball-Rumors: Are the Padres done dealing at this point?
Josh Rosenberg: I think they are done at this point. You've got the guys that were there last season (Hairston, Bard, Barrett, Adrian, Kouz, Khalil, etc), then you add the guys coming in, the addition of Edmonds, Wolf, Rush, Prior, Headley will probably make this team out of Spring Training, so I think these are the guys you'll see next season.
Baseball-Rumors: Were you surprised they let Geoff Blum and Doug Brocail walk in free agency so easily?
Josh Rosenberg: It goes along with Sandy's image of what an impact player is, those guys weren't that.
As far as Brocail goes, I don't think he'll be missed. The Padres are so deep in their bullpen that they'll fill his role pretty easily.
With Blum, I think a lot of fans were upset that they didn't bring him back, he was a fan favorite. I don't think a lot of fans understood why they didn't want to bring Blum back, but they brought in Robert Fick.
Baseball-Rumors: Chase Headley is going to be working out at Petco Park, as early as this month, in left field. Do you expect him to be the starter come opening day?
Josh Rosenberg: No, it's not really his job to lose. The Padres like Scott Hairston, so I think he'll be the Opening Day starter in 2008. Hairston had the best 10-day stretch of anyone in baseball when he showed up in San Diego, he was a huge part of this ballclub down the stretch. Question becomes, can he do it for a full season?
Baseball-Rumors: Tad Iguchi, do you think he was the steal of the offseason for the Padres?
Josh Rosenberg: He's a definite positive, I think he'll excel at Petco Park and he's a good fit with this team. He's a definite upgrade over Marcus Giles at 2nd base.
Baseball-Rumors: Is this Trevor Hoffman's final year with the San Diego Padres?
Josh Rosenberg: I think so, yes. Trevor definetely will come out with something to prove this season, but I think that Heath Bell is ready to assume the closer's role and he wants to be a closer. It may not be his final year in baseball, but I don't think he'll be back with the Padres in 2009.
Orioles purchase contract of Phillies' Roberson
According to an AP report, the Baltimore Orioles have purchased the contract of Chris Roberson from the Philadelphia Phillies.
The Phillies also sent catcher Pete LaForest outright to AAA Lehigh Valley.
Rockies interested in Giles, Towers
The Colorado Rockies have strong interest in 2nd baseman Marcus Giles and right-hander Josh Towers to bring in more competition and depth to their roster.
Giles could push rookie Jayson Nix for the 2nd base job come spring training. Though GM Dan O'Dowd has said that he's very comfortable filling the job internally, both Ian Stewert and Jeff Baker are not familiar with 2nd base and it would be a position change for both.
Josh Towers has been on the Rockies' radar since July, though they also have been in touch with Victor Zambrano.
Mike DiGiovanna of the LA Times
I had the pleasure to be able to talk Angels baseball with Mike DiGiovanna of the LA Times.
Baseball-Rumors: With Torii Hunter now with the Angels, is there a possibility that the Angels could trade Gary Mathews Jr.?
Mike DiGiovanna: I wouldn't rule it out, no. The problem is, though, that Mathews has a full no trade clause in his contract so he can veto any deal. There aren't a lot of teams left that are desperate for a center fielder, and if there were, would they want to take on the 4-years and $43M still left on his contract?
Baseball-Rumors: There's a lot of talk about young prospect Reggie Willits, will he see any playing time with the Angels next season?
Mike DiGiovanna: I don't see it, the Angels already have 4 outfielders plus Juan Rivera. I think Willits will get 1 more year in AAA and then we'll see where things are in 2009.
Baseball-Rumors: The other prospect getting a lot of talk is Brandon Wood. How good is this kid and can he put up good numbers in the big leagues?
Mike DiGiovanna: Defensively I think he's ready, he's got good power potential, 20-25 HR potential, he's got a good arm good range. The downside of him is his inconsistant contact at the plate, too many strikeouts.
The Angels had him playing in the Mexican Winter League, but he left due to a family emergency and never went back. I think he needs to play one more year of AAA and be more selective at the plate.
Baseball-Rumors: Were you surprised that the Angels let Dallas McPherson go?
Mike DiGiovanna: I was, especially since they put so much time and money invested in him. I would have thought they would want to see how he looks after his surgery.
Baseball-Rumors: Where do you think McPherson ends up?
Mike DiGiovanna: I'll tell you where he'd like to go, Tampa Bay. He likes the team and it's close to Durham where he grew up.
Baseball-Rumors: How involved is Tim Salmon with the Angels?
Mike DiGiovanna: He came out to Spring Training last year as an instructor. Since he lives in Arizona, close to where the Angels camp is, he doesn't mind helping out during Spring Training.
Baseball-Rumors: Has he had any interest in managing?
Mike DiGiovanna: I don't think so, he's still got young kids who are still in school, so I don't think he wants to be away from his family. I don't think he has any real interest yet.
Baseball-Rumors: Have the Angels talked with Francisco Rodriguez of Vlad Guerrero about contract extensions and do you expect anything to be done prior to the start of the '08 season?
Mike DiGiovanna: They've had on and off discussions with Rodriguez over the last year, but since he thinks he's one of the top 3 closers in baseball, it's likely that he's going to look at the deal that Mariano Rivera signed with the Yankees and use that at a starting point.
Vlad Guerrero still has an $15M option for the 2009 season, so there's no real hurry on the Angels part to sign him just yet. They do, however, want to make him their franchise player and show him that they want to keep him long term.
I'd be surprised if they had anything complete prior to pitchers and catchers reporting, but you never know, teams have gotten extensions done in the first few weeks of April. There's really more urgency with Rodriguez since he'll be a free agent after the 2008 season.
Baseball-Rumors: Garrett Anderson also has an option for 2009, will the Angels pick up his option as well?
Mike DiGiovanna: I'd be surprised if they picked up Anderson's option, I think this is his last year in an Angels uniform.
Baseball-Rumors: With Torii Hunter now with the Angels, is there a possibility that the Angels could trade Gary Mathews Jr.?
Mike DiGiovanna: I wouldn't rule it out, no. The problem is, though, that Mathews has a full no trade clause in his contract so he can veto any deal. There aren't a lot of teams left that are desperate for a center fielder, and if there were, would they want to take on the 4-years and $43M still left on his contract?
Baseball-Rumors: There's a lot of talk about young prospect Reggie Willits, will he see any playing time with the Angels next season?
Mike DiGiovanna: I don't see it, the Angels already have 4 outfielders plus Juan Rivera. I think Willits will get 1 more year in AAA and then we'll see where things are in 2009.
Baseball-Rumors: The other prospect getting a lot of talk is Brandon Wood. How good is this kid and can he put up good numbers in the big leagues?
Mike DiGiovanna: Defensively I think he's ready, he's got good power potential, 20-25 HR potential, he's got a good arm good range. The downside of him is his inconsistant contact at the plate, too many strikeouts.
The Angels had him playing in the Mexican Winter League, but he left due to a family emergency and never went back. I think he needs to play one more year of AAA and be more selective at the plate.
Baseball-Rumors: Were you surprised that the Angels let Dallas McPherson go?
Mike DiGiovanna: I was, especially since they put so much time and money invested in him. I would have thought they would want to see how he looks after his surgery.
Baseball-Rumors: Where do you think McPherson ends up?
Mike DiGiovanna: I'll tell you where he'd like to go, Tampa Bay. He likes the team and it's close to Durham where he grew up.
Baseball-Rumors: How involved is Tim Salmon with the Angels?
Mike DiGiovanna: He came out to Spring Training last year as an instructor. Since he lives in Arizona, close to where the Angels camp is, he doesn't mind helping out during Spring Training.
Baseball-Rumors: Has he had any interest in managing?
Mike DiGiovanna: I don't think so, he's still got young kids who are still in school, so I don't think he wants to be away from his family. I don't think he has any real interest yet.
Baseball-Rumors: Have the Angels talked with Francisco Rodriguez of Vlad Guerrero about contract extensions and do you expect anything to be done prior to the start of the '08 season?
Mike DiGiovanna: They've had on and off discussions with Rodriguez over the last year, but since he thinks he's one of the top 3 closers in baseball, it's likely that he's going to look at the deal that Mariano Rivera signed with the Yankees and use that at a starting point.
Vlad Guerrero still has an $15M option for the 2009 season, so there's no real hurry on the Angels part to sign him just yet. They do, however, want to make him their franchise player and show him that they want to keep him long term.
I'd be surprised if they had anything complete prior to pitchers and catchers reporting, but you never know, teams have gotten extensions done in the first few weeks of April. There's really more urgency with Rodriguez since he'll be a free agent after the 2008 season.
Baseball-Rumors: Garrett Anderson also has an option for 2009, will the Angels pick up his option as well?
Mike DiGiovanna: I'd be surprised if they picked up Anderson's option, I think this is his last year in an Angels uniform.
Jays re-sign OF Johnson
The Toronto Blue Jays have re-signed OF Reed Johnson to a 1-year $3.275M contract on Wednesday.
The 'Jays also signed minor league deals with right-hander Lance Carter as well as left-handers John Parrish and Ryan Ketchner
Interview with MLB.com's Bill Chastain
This is my 2nd interview and had just as much, if not more, fun talking with Bill Chastain, he covers the Tampa Bay Rays for MLB.com.
Baseball-Rumors: How good of an acquisition is Cliff Floyd for this ballclub?
Bill Chastain: Floyd will fit in very well with this team. It, essentially, gives them 3 players (Floyd, Baldelli, Gomes) for 2 positions so it gives them good flexibility.
Floyd says he's completely healthy, and he's shown that when he is, he can put up good numbers.
Baseball-Rumors: Speaking of Baldelli, how bad is his current injury?
Bill Chastain: They've done numberous tests to find out why these injuries keep occuring, mainly the pulled mucles and hamstring. They're trying to make sure there aren't other contributing factors to his injuries.
Baseball-Rumors: How about Jonny Gomes, how does he figure into the plans?
Bill Chastain: Gomes is actually a better right fielder than left fielder, it could be that he sees the ball coming off the bat beffer in right than he does in left, so he'll definetely get a shot.
Baseball-Rumors: Tim Lahey was acquired by the Rays via the Rule 5 draft, and then dealt to the Chicago Cubs. Had the Cubs had told Tampa of their interest in Lahey prior to him being drafted?
Bill Chastain: You know what, I don't remember. I imagine that could be a possibility, but I just don't recall what the situation was.
Baseball-Rumors: How good of an acquisition is Cliff Floyd for this ballclub?
Bill Chastain: Floyd will fit in very well with this team. It, essentially, gives them 3 players (Floyd, Baldelli, Gomes) for 2 positions so it gives them good flexibility.
Floyd says he's completely healthy, and he's shown that when he is, he can put up good numbers.
Baseball-Rumors: Speaking of Baldelli, how bad is his current injury?
Bill Chastain: They've done numberous tests to find out why these injuries keep occuring, mainly the pulled mucles and hamstring. They're trying to make sure there aren't other contributing factors to his injuries.
Baseball-Rumors: How about Jonny Gomes, how does he figure into the plans?
Bill Chastain: Gomes is actually a better right fielder than left fielder, it could be that he sees the ball coming off the bat beffer in right than he does in left, so he'll definetely get a shot.
Baseball-Rumors: Tim Lahey was acquired by the Rays via the Rule 5 draft, and then dealt to the Chicago Cubs. Had the Cubs had told Tampa of their interest in Lahey prior to him being drafted?
Bill Chastain: You know what, I don't remember. I imagine that could be a possibility, but I just don't recall what the situation was.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Giants interested in Hillenbrand?
Kevin Baxter of the LA Times has an article on Shea Hillenbrand, saying he's gotten interest from the San Francisco Giants, but that he expects his phone to start ringing in the next few weeks with interest from other teams.
I just don't see Hillenbrand being the right guy for a National League squad, I think he's better off in a DH role in the American League. He can fill in at 1st, 3rd and a little outfield if needed, so maybe there are a few teams that will bring him in on a minor league deal just to see if he has anything left.
Remaining Free Agents
Since news seems to be a little slow this time of year, though most of us aren't bothered by that due to the massive amounts of football over the next few days, I thought we'd cover some of the ones still unsigned.
Mike Cameron - This is the most surprising to me at this point. I thought for sure he would have been taken off the market long ago. Looks like his suspension is weighing more on teams that even he expected. The teams that were interested, the Rangers and Phillies, have gone in different directions. The Rangers made a trade with the Reds for center fielder Josh Hamilton and the Phillies have signed both So Taguchi and Geoff Jenkins. Will he have to take a 1-year deal somewhere or is there a team out there that will give him a 2 or 3-year deal?
Pedro Feliz - Apparently, he's looking for a 3-year deal, but there's not a team out there that's going to give a suspect defensive 3rd baseman that many years. There isn't much talk about him with a lot of teams, so he may have to return to the Giants on a 1-year deal, that is, if the Giants even want to bring him back.
Eddie Guardado - The former Mariners and Reds closer is reportedly close to a deal with the Texas Rangers to be their closer. The deal is expected to be finalized sometime after New Years.
Kenny Lofton - The Milwaukee Brewers seem to be most serious about bringing in the veteran outfielder, but they need to decide if they're going to move Bill Hall to 3rd, which will allow them to move 2007 Rookie of the Year Ryan Braun to left field. Doing that would open up their center field position for Lofton, who turns 41 in May but still brings a lot to the table, as he showed with the Indians in the 2007 playoff series against the Yankees.
Kyle Lohse - The New York Post had reported that the Mets had interest in the left-hander, but there hasn't been anything come of that just yet. The Phillies have backed out of the race after learning Lohse and his agent were looking for a 5-year deal...I'm not sure the Mets will give him that either.
Akinori Otsuka - The former Rangers reliever was non-tendered by the team and is currently a free agent. The Rangers, apparently, don't think his pitching elbow will hold up and fear he could be a candidate for Tommy John surgery. His other former team, the San Diego Padres, may have interest in bringing him back on a 1-year deal, but may also be scared off by that possibility....but they brought in Mark Prior, go figure.
Tony Clark - In my opinion, one of the top free agents available right now. He's a good defensive 3rd baseman and can still launch the ball. Clark and his agent tried to negotiate a new 2-year deal with Arizona but could not come to an agreement, so they parted ways. Both the Giants and Dodgers have expressed interest and he's someone that would fit in well with both ballclubs.
Jason Jennings - Jennings has had interest from the Nationals as well as the Rockies and possibly Astros. He's coming off shoulder surgery, so teams could be scared off by his medical records and possibility of his shoulder not being completely healed.
Although there are a few more on the free agent list remaining, these are just a few that teams are talking about at this point. After the New Year holiday, you should see things pick up again. I don't think we'll see any HUGE signings or blockbuster trades, but I think you'll see a few of the above players sign with their new teams, or former teams, who knows.
Mike Cameron - This is the most surprising to me at this point. I thought for sure he would have been taken off the market long ago. Looks like his suspension is weighing more on teams that even he expected. The teams that were interested, the Rangers and Phillies, have gone in different directions. The Rangers made a trade with the Reds for center fielder Josh Hamilton and the Phillies have signed both So Taguchi and Geoff Jenkins. Will he have to take a 1-year deal somewhere or is there a team out there that will give him a 2 or 3-year deal?
Pedro Feliz - Apparently, he's looking for a 3-year deal, but there's not a team out there that's going to give a suspect defensive 3rd baseman that many years. There isn't much talk about him with a lot of teams, so he may have to return to the Giants on a 1-year deal, that is, if the Giants even want to bring him back.
Eddie Guardado - The former Mariners and Reds closer is reportedly close to a deal with the Texas Rangers to be their closer. The deal is expected to be finalized sometime after New Years.
Kenny Lofton - The Milwaukee Brewers seem to be most serious about bringing in the veteran outfielder, but they need to decide if they're going to move Bill Hall to 3rd, which will allow them to move 2007 Rookie of the Year Ryan Braun to left field. Doing that would open up their center field position for Lofton, who turns 41 in May but still brings a lot to the table, as he showed with the Indians in the 2007 playoff series against the Yankees.
Kyle Lohse - The New York Post had reported that the Mets had interest in the left-hander, but there hasn't been anything come of that just yet. The Phillies have backed out of the race after learning Lohse and his agent were looking for a 5-year deal...I'm not sure the Mets will give him that either.
Akinori Otsuka - The former Rangers reliever was non-tendered by the team and is currently a free agent. The Rangers, apparently, don't think his pitching elbow will hold up and fear he could be a candidate for Tommy John surgery. His other former team, the San Diego Padres, may have interest in bringing him back on a 1-year deal, but may also be scared off by that possibility....but they brought in Mark Prior, go figure.
Tony Clark - In my opinion, one of the top free agents available right now. He's a good defensive 3rd baseman and can still launch the ball. Clark and his agent tried to negotiate a new 2-year deal with Arizona but could not come to an agreement, so they parted ways. Both the Giants and Dodgers have expressed interest and he's someone that would fit in well with both ballclubs.
Jason Jennings - Jennings has had interest from the Nationals as well as the Rockies and possibly Astros. He's coming off shoulder surgery, so teams could be scared off by his medical records and possibility of his shoulder not being completely healed.
Although there are a few more on the free agent list remaining, these are just a few that teams are talking about at this point. After the New Year holiday, you should see things pick up again. I don't think we'll see any HUGE signings or blockbuster trades, but I think you'll see a few of the above players sign with their new teams, or former teams, who knows.
What to look forward to in 2008
There's a great article written by Tom Singer of MLB.com about what to look forward to in the 2008 season.
Something I forgot, it will be the last season the Mets and Yankees will play in their respective stadiums, a lot of history being closed down.
Joe Torre will begin his tenure as the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, still feels weird to say that.
The Detroit Tigers will have several new faces including Dontrelle Willis, Miguel Cabrera and Jacque Jones.
Dusty Baker begins his new post as the manager of the Cincinnati Reds...anyone think that was a good move yet?
Trey Hillman also in a new post as the manager of the Kansas City Royals.
As strong as the NL West was last season, it's going to be even stronger this season, could they possibly challenge the NL East for the top division in baseball?
There are going to be a lot of great storylines to follow in the upcoming 2008 season, I think it will be one of the best we've seen in quite some time.
Something I forgot, it will be the last season the Mets and Yankees will play in their respective stadiums, a lot of history being closed down.
Joe Torre will begin his tenure as the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, still feels weird to say that.
The Detroit Tigers will have several new faces including Dontrelle Willis, Miguel Cabrera and Jacque Jones.
Dusty Baker begins his new post as the manager of the Cincinnati Reds...anyone think that was a good move yet?
Trey Hillman also in a new post as the manager of the Kansas City Royals.
As strong as the NL West was last season, it's going to be even stronger this season, could they possibly challenge the NL East for the top division in baseball?
There are going to be a lot of great storylines to follow in the upcoming 2008 season, I think it will be one of the best we've seen in quite some time.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Interview with MLB.com's Thomas Harding
I had the privilege to interview Thomas Harding, he covers the Colorado Rockies for MLB.com.
Baseball-Rumors: You had reported in early December that the Rockies had conversations with both David Eckstein and Mark Loretta. At what point did the Rockies move away from both of those players?
Thomas Harding: Mark Loretta was the Rockies' first choice, but he had a lucrative, $4M offer on the table from the Astros and the Rockies just weren't willing to give him that kind of money.
As far as David Eckstein, they were ok with a 2-year deal but not at the kind of money he was looking for.
Baseball-Rumors: I understand the Rockies also have interest in veteran 2nd baseman Todd Walker, where are those discussions at this point?
Thomas Harding: The Rockies actually have interest in both Walker as well as Marcus Giles and will probably offer both minor league deals, but you probably won't see anything on that until after the New Year.
If neither agree to minor league deals, the Rockies will fill the position internally.
Baseball-Rumors: Troy Tulowitzlki, we saw how good of a player he is on the field, but what kind of a leader is he off the field, especially for his young age?
Thomas Harding: He's a very confident kid, has been since he got the chance out of AA in Spring Training last year. The veterans in the clubhouse wanted him to come in and earn the shortstop position, they wanted to see what he could do and he did just that.
A leader doesn't mean he has to yell in the clubhouse or be the one to always face the media, but to show leadership on the field and Tulo has done a great job at that.
Baseball-Rumors: After all the years Helton has spent with the Rockies, how much fun was it to see him with this young team through the playoffs and that moment when they clinched the NLCS?
Thomas Harding: It was an absolute blast to watch. I talked to Helton prior to the the World Series and he told me he has shown more emotion this season then he ever has, which showed after the World Series because he was the most disappointed player in that clubhouse.
This season, though, I saw Helton play better defense than he has in the last 4-5 years.
Baseball-Rumors: Matt Holliday is a Rockie at least through the 2009 season, are the Rockies confident they can sign him long term and when do you expect the front office to approach him or his agent about that?
Thomas Harding: They'll approach Holliday and Scott Boras (Holliday's agent), every winter, but I think it's going to be a short conversation. I know there was a report that the Rockies had a 4-year $60M offer on the table, but Boras says that offer was never submitted to him.
Though Boras is going to tell the Rockies that the Mets, Yankees, Red Sox and Dodgers won't fold anytime soon and will be waiting when he hits free agency but the Rockies aren't resigned to losing Holliday to free agency.
Baseball-Rumors: Yorvit Torrealba was close to signing a deal with the NY Mets back in November. After that deal fell through, did Colorado approach him about coming back or vice versa?
Thomas Harding: Torrealba kept them in the running the entire time, he knew they had an offer on the table, but when the Mets made the offer they did, it was a no-brainer for him. When the deal fell through, he decided to take the Rockies' offer even though he did have a bigger offer from the Florida Marlins.
The way the Rockies' Front Office works is, they guage how much that player is worth, they make their offer and there isn't much negotiation after that.
Baseball-Rumors: With Torrealba coming back, is he the #1 guy when the '08 season starts or do the Rockies want Chris Ianetta to be that guy?
Thomas Harding: Torrealba will be the #1 guy going into next season. They wanted a guy that they know can help them both defensively and with the bat. Though he's going to be starter next season, you'll see Chris Ianetta get his share of playing time as well.
Baseball-Rumors: Final question for me, the NL West has gone from being called the “NL Worst” a few years ago to, arguably, being the best and deepest division in baseball. Is this division showing baseball that you can build from within and be successful?
Thomas Harding: Absolutely, I think you've seen that throughout the NL West. Look at the Giants, with exception to Barry Zito their pitching staff is all from their own system. The pitching in this division seems to have at least 1 or 2 guys that are home grown.
Baseball-Rumors: You had reported in early December that the Rockies had conversations with both David Eckstein and Mark Loretta. At what point did the Rockies move away from both of those players?
Thomas Harding: Mark Loretta was the Rockies' first choice, but he had a lucrative, $4M offer on the table from the Astros and the Rockies just weren't willing to give him that kind of money.
As far as David Eckstein, they were ok with a 2-year deal but not at the kind of money he was looking for.
Baseball-Rumors: I understand the Rockies also have interest in veteran 2nd baseman Todd Walker, where are those discussions at this point?
Thomas Harding: The Rockies actually have interest in both Walker as well as Marcus Giles and will probably offer both minor league deals, but you probably won't see anything on that until after the New Year.
If neither agree to minor league deals, the Rockies will fill the position internally.
Baseball-Rumors: Troy Tulowitzlki, we saw how good of a player he is on the field, but what kind of a leader is he off the field, especially for his young age?
Thomas Harding: He's a very confident kid, has been since he got the chance out of AA in Spring Training last year. The veterans in the clubhouse wanted him to come in and earn the shortstop position, they wanted to see what he could do and he did just that.
A leader doesn't mean he has to yell in the clubhouse or be the one to always face the media, but to show leadership on the field and Tulo has done a great job at that.
Baseball-Rumors: After all the years Helton has spent with the Rockies, how much fun was it to see him with this young team through the playoffs and that moment when they clinched the NLCS?
Thomas Harding: It was an absolute blast to watch. I talked to Helton prior to the the World Series and he told me he has shown more emotion this season then he ever has, which showed after the World Series because he was the most disappointed player in that clubhouse.
This season, though, I saw Helton play better defense than he has in the last 4-5 years.
Baseball-Rumors: Matt Holliday is a Rockie at least through the 2009 season, are the Rockies confident they can sign him long term and when do you expect the front office to approach him or his agent about that?
Thomas Harding: They'll approach Holliday and Scott Boras (Holliday's agent), every winter, but I think it's going to be a short conversation. I know there was a report that the Rockies had a 4-year $60M offer on the table, but Boras says that offer was never submitted to him.
Though Boras is going to tell the Rockies that the Mets, Yankees, Red Sox and Dodgers won't fold anytime soon and will be waiting when he hits free agency but the Rockies aren't resigned to losing Holliday to free agency.
Baseball-Rumors: Yorvit Torrealba was close to signing a deal with the NY Mets back in November. After that deal fell through, did Colorado approach him about coming back or vice versa?
Thomas Harding: Torrealba kept them in the running the entire time, he knew they had an offer on the table, but when the Mets made the offer they did, it was a no-brainer for him. When the deal fell through, he decided to take the Rockies' offer even though he did have a bigger offer from the Florida Marlins.
The way the Rockies' Front Office works is, they guage how much that player is worth, they make their offer and there isn't much negotiation after that.
Baseball-Rumors: With Torrealba coming back, is he the #1 guy when the '08 season starts or do the Rockies want Chris Ianetta to be that guy?
Thomas Harding: Torrealba will be the #1 guy going into next season. They wanted a guy that they know can help them both defensively and with the bat. Though he's going to be starter next season, you'll see Chris Ianetta get his share of playing time as well.
Baseball-Rumors: Final question for me, the NL West has gone from being called the “NL Worst” a few years ago to, arguably, being the best and deepest division in baseball. Is this division showing baseball that you can build from within and be successful?
Thomas Harding: Absolutely, I think you've seen that throughout the NL West. Look at the Giants, with exception to Barry Zito their pitching staff is all from their own system. The pitching in this division seems to have at least 1 or 2 guys that are home grown.
Royals sign Tsao to minor league deal
The Kansas City Royals signed former Dodger right-hander Chin-Hui Tsao to a minor league deal with an invite to Spring Training according to a press release from the team.
Clement offered minor league deal from Cardinals
Scott Wuertz reported yesterday that Matt Clement was close to signing with the St. Louis Cardinals.
In his blog today, Wuertz reports that the Cardinals had offered Clement a minor league deal with an invite to Spring Training but turned it down.
He's now expected to sign with either the Pirates or Indians. Clement just recently built a new home in Butler, PA where he was born.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
What's Next?
Since we seem to be at that point where all's quiet on the western front so to speak, let's go over a few things we can look forward to in the coming months.
January 8th - Hall of Fame selections will be announced
February 14th - Pitchers and catchers report to their respective Spring Training Camps
February 26th - The first Spring Training games will get underway
March 25th - First regular season game will be played in Tokyo between the Red Sox and A's.
January 8th - Hall of Fame selections will be announced
February 14th - Pitchers and catchers report to their respective Spring Training Camps
February 26th - The first Spring Training games will get underway
March 25th - First regular season game will be played in Tokyo between the Red Sox and A's.
Clement to sign with Cardinals?
12.30.07 11:06am PST
Contrary to Scott Wuerz' report, John Perrotto reports that Clement is going to sign with either the Pirates or Indians.
12.30.07 9:37am PST
Scott Wuerz of the Belleville News Democrat has a rumor that the Cardinals are close to signing free agent right-hander Matt Clement.
There's no details on whether it's a 1-year deal or more than that.
I sent emails to Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and Matt Leach the Cardinals' beat writer for MLB.com to see if I can get any details and/or further confirmation of the deal.
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