MLB Rumors Archive

"If the A's are considering bringing Frank Thomas back into the fold, manager Bob Geren isn't saying."

"While Thomas's representatives have yet to reply, the Joliet Jackhammers of the independent Northern League will also spring for an apartment in the Joliet area and a salary that could go as high as $3,500 (U.S.) a month... On a more serious note, the Oakland A's are apparently considering going after Thomas and will make a call within 48 hours. "

" Former Dodgers shortstop prospect Juan Castro, now a veteran utility man, was designated for assignment by the Cincinnati Reds on Monday and might be getting close to returning to his original organization."

"The Marlins are genuinely unsure if they'll do a long-term deal with Hanley Ramirez and are in no rush to decide. He's eligible for arbitration the next three offseasons and free agency after 2011."

"But how would the vocal Guillen fare if he worked under New York Yankees co-chairman Hank Steinbrenner, who recently suggested that young pitcher Joba Chamberlain would be better served in the starting rotation instead of the bullpen?"

"The Pirates will not rule out buying out the contract of starter Matt Morris or any other player if circumstances warrant, team president Frank Coonelly said yesterday, but he added that this is not the current focus."

"Are the Pirates still looking to pursue the longer-term deal with LaRoche or could we see him traded instead of Jason Bay or Xavier Nady, who are both performing better?"

"Juan Castro sensed it was coming and two days ago asked a writer, "Any rumors out there about me? I heard I might be traded. I hope not. I really love it here." The message came Tuesday and it wasn't in a bottle. Castro, 35, was designated for assignment and the Cincinnati Reds called up Jerry Hairston Jr. from Class AAA Louisville, where he was hitting .421. Castro was 0-for-10."

"It's amazing. The Jays just dumped Frank Thomas, a future hall of fame hitter with a great on-base percentage who can't play a position any more and is more concerned about personal goals than team achievement. And with the Big Hurt less than 48 hours out the door, there's a groundswell of Jays fans looking to sign Barry Bonds, a player with a lot of the same stuff on his resumé, just more of it. That's crazy."

"General manager Jon Daniels said for now the Texas Rangers are not pursuing free agent Frank Thomas, even though the lineup could use a power right-handed bat to break up a clot of lefties."

"Crede also said that, unlike A-Rod -- who is in town with the New York Yankees starting today -- he has no plans to stray from Boras' advice and try to negotiate a deal himself to stay with the team he claims his heart is with. In November, Rodriguez opted to negotiate with the Yankees without Boras present, about the same time that then-free-agent pitcher Kenny Rogers made headlines when he fired Boras."

"Frank Thomas was released on Sunday by the Blue Jays, but the Yankees won't be a player for the future Hall of Famer, who ranks 18th on the all-time home run list with 516."

"Carlos Delgado broke an 0-for-14 streak last night but continues to weigh down the Mets offense. With the 35-year-old first baseman hitting just .206 after his fifth-inning single in a 7-1 loss to the Cubs, the Mets are fielding no shortage of questions about Delgado's future. "

"Despite that, Mulder is looking more like the star pitcher the Cards sacrificed Danny Haren to get. He is preparing to bolster the Cards rotation in May and create additional trade leverage for general manager John Mozeliak."

"Mark, count me as one of the many fans who believes that the White Sox would be foolish to give up Joe Crede, who has the unique ability to play great defense and hit with power in the clutch. Yes, Josh Fields is a great prospect, but other teams recognize that also. "

"The Pirates' options with Matt Morris all are plenty unattractive. Buy him out? That would prevent further scenes like the four-inning, eight-run meltdown that marked the 10-4 loss to the Florida Marlins last night at PNC Park, but it also would require writing a check for roughly $10 million with zero return."

"With the slumping Vidro looking desperately lost at the plate – he went 0-for-4 against the Angels on Sunday, stranding five runners, finishing the day with a batting average of .208 – the idea of replacing him with Thomas, at minimum cost, seems like a no-brainer. On the other hand, we’re talking about an egocentric baseball player and his contract. Nothing about either is simple."

"In spite of Billy Beane's careful plans and grand design, the A's find themselves still in the playoff picture 20 games into the season. This could necessitate some rethinking. The rethinking could involve Frank Thomas, or Barry Bonds. Or (drumroll, please!) both. Could it be? The Big Hurt and the Big Pain, two of baseball's all-time great diva sluggers, joining forces in Oakland?"

"Frank Thomas's career as a Toronto Blue Jay ended quietly yesterday morning after a closed-door meeting with GM J.P. Ricciardi... The veteran star, who was mired in an early season slump, will be paid the full remainder of what he's owed on his $8 million (U.S.) 2008 salary. He is now free to sign with another team. Rumoured favourites to procure his services include Seattle, Tampa Bay and Oakland."

"The Rangers' interest in disgruntled Frank Thomas appears to be tepid, at best. Thomas, whom the Rangers courted before the 2007 season, was released by Toronto on Sunday after going ballistic after he was benched."

"The injury to Alfonso Soriano could rekindle the Cubs' interest in trying to get outfielder Coco Crisp from the Red Sox. But Boston is said to like its center field platoon of Crisp and Jacoby Ellsbury, and may decide to hold onto Crisp all year."

"Matt Capps also got a modest extension, also after two full seasons. Most of the Pirates’ younger players have a year or two of service time. The most likely candidates for the kind of approach Tampa Bay took with Longoria would be Andrew McCutcheon and Steve Pearce."

" Frank (The Big Hurt) Thomas has been benched. Thomas, the Blue Jays' giant designated hitter, wasn't in the lineup against the Detroit Tigers in yesterday's 3-2 victory and he was told by manager John Gibbons that he won't be back in the near future. In fact, his days as a Blue Jay could be all but over. "

"Thomas is certain something is afoot – about $10 million (all figures U.S.) of something. That chunk of his future earnings rests on his ability to stay in the lineup for a total of 376 trips to the plate in '08. He believes the Jays' motive for benching him is to save that money."

"With five homers, a .343 average and a .701 slugging percentage entering the Red Sox's weekend series with the Rangers, Manny Ramirez seems to be pushing as hard as he can for Boston to pick up its $20 million option on his contract for next season."

"Jason Kubel has something he is eager to sell, but he can't put it in the classifieds or on eBay. He can't take a picture and link it to craigslist, and it wouldn't do any good if he could, because there really is only one potential buyer worth enticing."

"Bartolo Colon has the contractual right to leave the organization if he isn’t called up to the majors by May 1, but Francona said he is hopeful the former Cy Young Award winner will forego the decision for a while (most likely until May 15) due to the time off required by a right oblique strain on April 6."

"Upton is another young guy the Rays plan to build around - there was a reason they kept him and were willing to part with Delmon Young - but he didn't sound like he expects to be the next to test the limits of owner Stuart Sternberg's bank account. He has other priorities at the moment."

"General manager Billy Beane said he talked to Alan Hendricks, the agent for closer Huston Street, this week but that the sides are discussing a possible multi-year deal in more general terms than anything really specific yet."

"The avalanche of pre-arbitration deals with talented young players continued Friday with the announcement of third baseman Evan Longoria's $17.5 million deal with Tampa Bay. Meanwhile, Diamondbacks right fielder Justin Upton, who is arguably the most talented young player in the game, said he hasn't been presented with a multiyear contract offer, and he's fine with that."

"During the monotony of spring training, Baltimore Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts said he felt engulfed by rumors of a trade to the Chicago Cubs. But with the regular season underway, and with Roberts still wearing an Orioles uniform, he said he feels a sense of relief that talks regarding his future have cooled."

"Pedro Martinez continues to upgrade assessments of his strained left hamstring. The ace reportedly told CDN-37 TV in the Dominican Republic that he could even return to the Mets within two weeks."

"An ESPNdeportes.com report quoted a Dominican TV interview with Pedro Martinez (strained hamstring) in which the ace claimed he was hopeful of being back with the Mets prior to May. "

"With the Cincinnati Reds apparently in need of catching help and right-handed power, free agent Mike Piazza's name has surfaced. But it is a surprise to manager Dusty Baker and the front office, even though a New York-area Web site said Baker is telling friends, "I'm confident Piazza will sign with the Reds. Tommy Lasorda wants him to play for me.""

"When Curt Schilling got up yesterday in Cleveland, he was surprised to hear of the brouhaha involving him back in Boston. He said he had no idea that his doctor, Craig Morgan, had gone on WEEI radio and said that Schilling might be interested in pitching for the Yankees next season."

"Amidst all the furor caused by the insinuation from Dr. Craig Morgan that Curt Schilling is so upset with the Red Sox that he would be open to playing for the Yankees, there was news to be found. After going on WEEI-AM yesterday morning to state that Morgan might have “misremembered,” what Schilling said, the veteran right-hander also clarified his status with the team."

"The White Sox and the agent for Gold Glove shortstop Orlando Cabrera have agreed not to discuss a new contract until after the 2008 season."

"For Manny Ramirez, it isn’t complicated. He hits home runs, like the one that won last night’s game, and thereby punches his ticket for six more years in Boston. It’s that simple. Don’t even bring up alternatives. According to Manny, those won’t be necessary."

"While Dombrowski simplified things by saying, "We just haven't played good baseball," the blogosphere is loaded with commentary about what he ought to do, and one prevailing suggestion is hiring Barry Bonds - the talk escalated when designated hitter Gary Sheffield missed time with a torn tendon in his left ring finger."

"Liriano has two years and 32 days of major league service time, and assuming he stays in the big leagues the rest of the season, he will be eligible for salary arbitration at season's end, which will drive his salary well past $1 million."

"Foremost was that Gorzelanny has less than two years of major-league service time, so he will not be eligible for salary arbitration until after the 2009 season. That means the team can pay him close to minimum wage until then and has little incentive to lock him up now."

"Zach Miner and Yorman Bazardo got opportunities Thursday night, and the results were disastrous in a 12-6 Tigers loss to Boston. Miner and Bazardo have become top candidates to go, along with Jason Grilli. But no one in the bullpen seems completely safe, except for closer Todd Jones, setup man Denny Bautista and lefty Bobby Seay. Remember, changes are coming. At least two of the right-handers will have to go, if the Tigers go back to a 12-man staff and also add a second lefty. It could be that three go, if they add Francisco Cruceta to the big-league roster. Or maybe even four, if Fernando Rodney can come back from his right-shoulder trouble."

"The Mets' patience with the fluctuating health of Orlando Hernandez finally ran out yesterday and the team is on the verge of signing Claudio Vargas to a minor-league contract to help fill the void, the pitcher's agent confirmed last night.Bean Stringfellow, who represents Vargas, said that general manager Omar Minaya contacted him yesterday afternoon and his client would pick a team by today"

"It was not easy for Dan Johnson to say goodbye to his teammates, but it was hardly unexpected, either. The first baseman was designated for assignment by the A's to make room on the 25-man and 40-man rosters for left-hander Greg Smith, who was called up from Triple-A Sacramento to start Wednesday's 6-3 win over the Toronto Blue Jays. The A's have 10 days to trade Johnson, release him or send him to the minor leagues. But Johnson must clear waivers -- a three-day period in which another team can pick up his contract -- before he could be sent to the minors."

"The Mets have begun trying to fix their rotation shortage. The Post has learned they are on the verge of signing free-agent righty Claudio Vargas to a Triple-A contract. Agent Bean Stringfellow told The Post that Vargas will make his decision today, and four teams are in the hunt. But Stringfellow confirmed that the Mets are the frontrunners. "

"Dan Johnson's agent, Bobby Barad, told the Chronicle that the A's have just informed the first baseman that he has been designated for assignment. That means they have 10 days to put Johnson on waivers, trade him or release him. The latter two are unlikely, and Johnson would have to clear waivers to be sent down. That's a process that takes three business days, but the A's do not have to run him through until next week if they choose. Perhaps they'll wait to see if another club has an injury and approaches them about a deal."

"The Giants are looking for a left-handed-hitting first baseman but have no interest in Dan Johnson, whom the A's designated for assignment."

"Major League Baseball and the players union have tentatively agreed to have an administrator oversee the sport’s drug-testing program as they move toward adopting many of the recommendations in the Mitchell report, according to two lawyers with knowledge of the pending deal. The overseer will be appointed to a fixed term and will be given many protections from dismissal, said the lawyers, who spoke on the condition of anonymity."

"Tuesday night was very possibly Dan Johnson's last in an A's uniform. The team must make room on both the 25-man roster and the 40-man roster for tonight's starter, Greg Smith, and Johnson appears to be the most expendable. He has only one at-bat this season, and the A's have Barton at first base and Mike Sweeney and Jack Cust available to DH. "

"The D-Backs have had intermittent talks with Orlando Hudson’s camp about an extension since late in 2007, but the sides appear so far apart that it would take a major move by one to rekindle meaningful dialog."

"Ryan Braun's agent, Nez Balelo, is in town for the three-game series and will continue talks with Melvin regarding a multi-year contract extension. Balelo said owner Mark Attanasio might take part as well. The Brewers continue to talk with Balelo and Scott Boras, the agent for Prince Fielder."

"Last year at this time, he was given a $650,000 (U.S.) extension to cover this season. There has been no extension this spring. The message is fairly clear – if this team stumbles early, it will be Gibbons' head on the block."

"Rangers right-hander Robinson Tejeda, designated for assignment before the season started, is still available in a trade although there's been little interest in him."

"Paul Konerko vowed in spring training to not discuss contracts. And he's keeping his word. So when the subject was brought up after Joe Crede's heroics against the Twins, the White Sox captain cut it off at the pass."

"Gee, do you think Ben Sheets knows he's in a contract year? His previous seven Aprils with the Brewers were mediocre (10-17, 4.19 ERA, zero shutouts, three complete games). His current April is dominant (1-0, no runs allowed in two starts, one complete game, one shutout)."

"All indications this offseason were that third baseman Joe Crede had played his last game at U.S. Cellular Field as a member of the Sox. He was coming off season-ending back surgery, his agent Scott Boras had turned down the idea of talking about a contract extension, and there were all sorts of trade rumors floating around."

"The Diamondbacks and center fielder Chris Young appear to be closing in on a long-term contract, and an announcement on the deal could come sometime early this week."

"The A's continue to try to move Dan Johnson, but they're in a tough spot. Most teams don't view Johnson as an everyday first baseman, and he hasn't shown much of an ability to handle being a bench player. After a groundout Wednesday, Johnson fell to 0-for-15 lifetime as a pinch-hitter."

"It allows them to bypass the expensive annoyance of the arbitration process, and, in some cases, to buy out early years of free agency. The Mariners did it with Yuniesky Betacourt (who signed a four-year, $13.75 million extension last year) and Jose Lopez (four years, $6.07 million), and are believed to be exploring the same, on a larger scale, with Felix Hernandez."

"General manager Brian Sabean acknowledged on his weekly radio show that he is looking for a first baseman, preferably a left-handed hitter. The Giants have had internal discussions about Washington's Nick Johnson, but he might be off the market after winning the everyday first-base job and starting the season strongly. A source said the Giants scouted 26-year-old Braves first baseman Scott Thorman, who hit 11 home runs in 287 at-bats last season. In spring training, the A's tried in vain to get the Giants to bite on Dan Johnson. "

"Bonds will eventually find his Owner Jones and a new team out there this season, probably sooner rather than later, but it won't be the Texas Rangers, at least not as long as Tom Hicks can resist that temptation."

"Top Rays officials virtually pride themselves in not committing to any kind of payroll level, ceiling, floor or window, insisting they are, and always shall be, willing and able to adjust to what's best for the team."

"When it comes to the possibility of picking up a player or two later this season, Rays principal owner Stuart Sternberg said all options remain on the table."

"Club sources say the Giants have no interest in third baseman Wes Helms, whom Philadelphia designated for assignment."

"Dodgers management is encouraged enough by the play of DeWitt and the progress of the injured third base threesome that they again rebuffed Philadelphia when they were approached about a trade involving Wes Helms this week, according to baseball sources. The Phillies have also offered Helms, whom they designated for assignment this week, to Florida and Atlanta."

"The Astros have had discussions with some clubs that are interested in Humberto Quintero, the catcher who was designated for assignment."

"Team owner Mark Attanasio said the club continued to have "ongoing discussions" with the agents for first baseman Prince Fielder and leftfielder Ryan Braun about multi-year contract extensions."

"Carl Crawford isn't feeling any sense of urgency to seek out a new contract with the Rays, but he has no desire to leave Tampa Bay, either. The day after the Rays picked up their 2009 option on him, guaranteeing him $8.25 million next season, Crawford said he's "taking it year-to-year," but "most definitely I would like to stay here with the Rays; this is the only organization I know.""

"Rich Harden played it a lot smarter on Wednesday. He made Ramirez - and most everyone else in the Red Sox lineup - look foolish instead...When you think about it, this entire A's season is an audition. Whether players are trying to restore their reputations, stay in the big leagues, show off for opposing scouts or make favorable first impressions, all of them are on trial."

"The two teams who have shown the most consistent interest in Coco Crisp are the Cubs and White Sox, according to a major league source familiar with both teams."

"But the race that might interest them the most is in the A.L. Central. Or, at least, that’s the one that Chad Cordero might need to monitor. The word is, Detroit is tracking the Nats reliever in case their bullpen falters them in the first half of the season."

"Yet not only have negotiations on Alex Rios's reported six-year, $65-million contract (all currency U.S.) dragged on — the paperwork as of yesterday still hadn't made it to the sausage machine that is the Rogers Communications accountants — but negotiations on an extension for Aaron Hill were stillborn. Ricciardi said on Monday that the door was still open for Hill to get a deal done. But Hill sure doesn't think so."

"Oliver Perez makes his season debut here tonight, and it could very well be the start of his last year as a Met. Already coming off a $6.5 million arbitration victory in February that was nearly $2 million more than the Mets were willing to pay, the young left-hander can become a free agent in the offseason. "

"Ramirez and Uggla are two of 14 Marlins eligible for arbitration following this season. Even before that will approach the July 31 trade deadline. So this season is when the front-office cabinet, led by Loria and president Larry Beinfest, will decide how the new plan, new team and new era will play out even before the new stadium sees the ceremonial golden spade."

"Free-agent second baseman Marcus Giles recanted on the agreement he made with the Dodgers in the morning to play third base at their triple-A affiliate in Las Vegas for 1-2 weeks to make his case to earn a spot on their major league roster. Giles went as far as to start driving to Nevada from his home in Lake Havasu, Ariz., but he didn't get far... Wes Helms of the Philadelphia Phillies could be the replacement at third for the Dodgers that Giles wasn't."

"Phillies officials wouldn't confirm that Seanez has been picked up one game into the season, after its bullpen was charged with seven runs in four innings on Opening Day, apparently because Seanez still has to pass a physical. Sources said, however, that he is expected to be in uniform in time for tonight's game against the Nationals at Citizens Bank Park. If that's the case, a roster move will have to be made. The Phillies could put a pitcher on the disabled list, could designate recently acquired Tim Lahey for assignment or could make a move with Wes Helms."

"The next time I hear LaRoche being firmly discussed as a possible trade candidate will be the first. Sure, he and anyone can go, even those signed to long-term contracts."

"The Phillies' search for pitching has reportedly landed them another reliever. A story in today's Los Angeles Times reported that the Phillies have signed 39-year-old right-hander Rudy Seanez, who was released by the Dodgers last week. Phillies general manager Pat Gillick would not confirm the signing when reached by telephone this morning, but the Times reported Seanez would be activated by the Phillies before Wednesday's game against the Nationals."

"The scheduled deadline for the signing of Alex Rios came and went. This was before yesterday afternoon's 2008 season opener was cancelled due to rain. The Blue Jays are so close to an agreement on a six-year extension that general manager J.P. Ricciardi extended the deadline. "

"Alex Rios was one of the stragglers. The all-star right fielder emerged from his post-game workout to reveal that his long-awaited long-term deal is done, except for a few details."

"The Phillies would like to add another lefthander to the bullpen, and the San Francisco Giants designated veteran southpaw Steve Kline for assignment a couple of days ago. But assistant general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said yesterday the Phillies aren't seeking to add Kline "at this time" . . ."

"Red Sox outfielder Bobby Kielty accepted his assignment to Triple-A Pawtucket tonight, electing not to ask for free agency to hook on elsewhere. On Sunday, Kielty said there was a possibility another undisclosed big league team would be offering him a job this week, in which case he would exercise his agreement with the Sox to be set free."

"Red Sox followers have as much interest in their team as any fans in the country, but the wise ones may want to spend some time over the next two days focusing on the pitchers who start for the other team, too. In a couple of months, both Joe Blanton and Rich Harden might be available."

"General manager Ken Williams wouldn't address the possibility of reopening negotiations with third baseman Joe Crede, who can become a free agent after this season."

"The Pirates and Adam LaRoche have reached an impasse in discussions aimed at a long-term contract, and it might be insurmountable."

"The deal to lock up Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Alex Rios long term is close to getting done. "It looks better today than it did yesterday," Paul Kinzer, Rios's agent, said yesterday in a telephone interview."

"Year VII of the J.P. Ricciardi era begins this afternoon at the big ball park in the Bronx. It's also the fourth full season for manager John Gibbons. For Ricciardi, Gibbons and the Jays, it is a put-up-or-shut-up season. "

"Blue Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi left Yankee Stadium following yesterday's workout, "cautiously optimistic" a deal would get done with right fielder Alex Rios on a six-year contract extension -- believed to be worth $65 million US -- before today's opener."

"Sabathia cut off negotiations as spring training opened to concentrate on the season. Doing that in February just said the two sides weren't close. No need to invite the inevitable backlash during the season with updates of no progress made in negotiations."

"On Saturday, Kielty said he told Epstein he would accept an assignment to Triple A Pawtucket, ready to bide his time until the Sox opened a roster spot, presumably by trading center fielder Coco Crisp. But yesterday, Kielty asked Epstein for another day to consider his options. Kielty's agent called, telling him he might have a spot for him on another big league team."

"With the strong possibility that another, undisclosed major league team is prepared to offer him a job, Bobby Kielty has put off his plans of reporting to Triple-A Pawtucket for at least the next three days."

" The outfielder’s hope had been that the Sox would move Coco Crisp before the start of the season, but that has yet to happen, freezing Kielty out of a roster spot. He was prepared to go to Pawtucket and wait for an opening, but that was before another unidentified team expressed an interest in him."

"Milwaukee Brewers owner Mark Attanasio said Saturday the club has made long-term contract offers to first baseman Prince Fielder and left fielder Ryan Braun, but didn't sound overly optimistic that deals would be reached any time soon."

"This is a no-excuses season for the Mariners, from the top on down. CEO Howard Lincoln put himself on the firing line when he decided — over the objections of a significant portion of the team's clientele — to retain general manager Bill Bavasi last September."

"The Rockies are interested in left-hander Jorge De La Rosa, if he clears waivers, as the player to be determined in last Wednesday’s trade that brought Ramirez to the Royals. That suggests the Rockies want De La Rosa to pitch in the minors."

"But the Indians' position the next few years is summed up this way: The only major player whom they could lose to free agency is starting pitcher C.C. Sabathia."

"Opening Day might be a point of no return for the Angels and closer Francisco Rodriguez, but neither side is willing to say so at this point."

"General Manager Ned Colletti has been speaking to other clubs about possible trades, targeting players with short and inexpensive contracts for what they expect to be short-term replacement duty. They are believed to be interested in Philadelphia's Wes Helms. Tampa Bay's Eric Hinske is also reportedly on the market."

"Nevertheless, the Braves season that begins Sunday night in Washington may be his last. Cox turns 67 in May. He is a hands-down Hall of Famer, a four-time manager of the year — in three different decades — with nothing left to prove. His contract is in its final year and he suggested last spring — and quickly withdrew — the notion that this would be his last season."

"At a combined $10.9 million, both Young and Lopez are an expensive luxury. They appear to be staying put for now, though trade rumors have persisted all spring about Lopez and neither is quite sure how to adapt to a bench spot."

"Friday night, after the Washington Nationals held their first workout at their new park, Manager Manny Acta invited Felipe López and Dmitri Young, one after the other, into his still unfurnished office. The news to be delivered to each was the same: Acta believes in their abilities, but after a spring in which they were involved in battles for playing time, they will begin the season on the bench. Instantly, they were transformed into $9.9 million worth of switch-hitting reserves... Neither López, who will earn $4.9 million in this final season before he becomes a free agent, nor Young said he would demand a trade."

"When Ben Sheets takes the mound Monday afternoon at Wrigley Field, he will be making his sixth opening day start for the Milwaukee Brewers. And, in all likelihood, his last."

"As for outfielder Matt Murton, he has been told he will be traded or sent to Iowa. General manager Jim Hendry has been working the phone the last two days and could have a deal finalized before Monday."

"The Pirates are hoping Bay can climb back to 2004-06 form and, in turn, provide the greatest possible net of prospects if dealt. But, because of other teams' wariness, activity on this front might not materialize until close to the July deadline."

"He was not Paul Godfrey's first choice. Or his second, or third. As J.P. Ricciardi went about his business this spring, the general manager of the Toronto Blue Jays was asked one day whether he thought his job was in jeopardy after six years without a playoff berth."

"Negotiations between Rios and the Blue Jays on a long-term contract are at a stalemate. The Jays have offered a six-year deal worth $65 million US."

"The Cubs are getting enough interest from other teams in outfielder Matt Murton that a deal might get done by the end of the weekend to keep the Cubs from having to send the .296 career hitter to the minors."

"Wes Helms' job is safe -- for now. The Phillies made several roster moves on Friday, none of which involved the veteran third baseman, who's hitting just .256 in 21 spring games."

"The Cubs granted nonroster infielder Alex Cintron his unconditional release Wednesday, the same day Baltimore Orioles president Andy MacPhail declared the Brian Roberts trade talks all but dead. The two are somewhat related. Cubs manager Lou Piniella had told Cintron on Tuesday that he had been beaten out by infielders Ronny Cedeno and Mike Fontenot."

" Reds veteran left-hander Mike Stanton or Rockies lefty Brian Fuentes may be available, but the price tag for Fuentes would figure to be high. The Phillies have also flirted previously with veteran lefty reliever Steve Kline, who is not assured of a job with the Giants. And San Francisco may be shopping for an infielder after utility man Kevin Frandsen ruptured his Achilles' tendon. Wes Helms, anyone?"

"Reitsma's options are retirement, accepting the demotion, or asking the Mariners to release him. The Mariners are under no obligation to grant a release, and even if they did, it's not clear that other teams would rush in with major league contract offers. The other 29 major league teams also are busy trimming players to reach the 25-man Opening Day limit, and there are precious few openings for pitchers who aren't healthy."

" Even if the Giants have to eat some of Durham's $7.5 million salary, or the two years and $13 million remaining on Roberts' contract? "If that's in the best interests of the organization, absolutely," Sabean said."

"Dusty Baker didn't mention his name, but relief pitcher Mike Stanton is the only guy in the bullpen who fits the description. He is signed to a guaranteed $3 million contract with a $500,000 buyout. If the Reds can't trade him, they have to keep him or pay him $3.5 million to walk away jobless."

" Alex Rios should be cashing his ticket any day now. The Blue Jays and their gifted right-fielder are closing in on a multi-year, multimillion-dollar deal, one that could come together as early as today. "

"The money is sitting on the table. Alex Rios has until the pre-game warmup at Yankee Stadium on Opening Day to grab it. The Blue Jays have been locked in negotiations with their 27-year-old all-star right fielder since last October, trying to secure him to a long-term deal. Neither side would deny the figures floating around yesterday – six years, $65 million (all figures U.S.), plus an option for a seventh year that would push the package to $80 million."

"Will any of it lead to the long-awaited trade with Baltimore for leadoff hitter Brian Roberts? One of the Orioles' top scouts, Bruce Kison, continued to follow the Cubs on Tuesday, but indications were that things remained quiet on that front."

"Claudio Vargas could be a candidate for the Mets' No. 5 starter vacancy. The 29-year-old right hander was released yesterday by the Brewers in a salary dump, and Mets GM Omar Minaya said his club will have a strong interest now that Vargas reportedly has cleared waivers."

"Reds veteran left-hander Mike Stanton or Rockies lefty Brian Fuentes may be available, but the pricetag for Fuentes would figure to be high. The Phillies also have flirted previously with veteran lefty reliever Steve Kline, who is not assured of a job with the Giants."

"He also knows his name has been mentioned in plenty of trade talks, and it remains possible that president of baseball operations Andy MacPhail will trade him before Opening Day. The Orioles had some talks with the Chicago Cubs about Payton in the Brian Roberts talks, but the Cubs signed Reed Johnson yesterday, so they no longer have a need for a right-handed-hitting outfielder."

"Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts was scratched from yesterday's lineup before batting practice, but not because he had been traded. That theory was put to rest almost immediately."

"The Dodgers don't appear to have a strong interest in veteran second baseman Marcus Giles, who is expected to become a free agent in the next few days after it became apparent there wouldn't be a spot for him on Colorado's Opening Day roster."

"Marcus Giles, a player the Dodgers have expressed interest in, could become available soon because the Colorado Rockies are planning on releasing him. But the Dodgers have doubts about his ability to play third, a position he played only nine times in the majors."

"The Phillies would love to be able to trade Helms. The Giants (for veteran lefthander Steve Kline) and the Reds (for experienced lefty Mike Stanton) are among the teams they are believed to be talking to."

"Q: Do you think Frank Catalanotto is being shopped? Reasonable contract, kind of superfluous right now ... would seem to be a good fit for, say, the Mets, given their injury situation and need for a bench bat."

"Baltimore Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts will take a few days off with lower back soreness and stiffness, though he doesn't expect to miss Opening Day... Meantime, Roberts refused comment regarding his trade status."

"But the most surprising move of the spring is expected today, when management, according to multiple sources, will buy out reliever Byung-Hyun Kim for $300,000."

"Despite Internet rumours to the contrary this morning, the Toronto Blue Jays and Alex Rios deny that the 27-year-old's long-term extension with the club is done. But it's close. "It's just numbers," Rios said. "And some other stuff." Nobody denies the numbers floating around right now – six years, $65 million (U.S.) and a possible seventh year option that would bump the deal to $80 million."

"You say Kerry Wood will become the toast of Clark Street. I say Huston Street is available on the trade market. You say Wood will be pain-free all season, save 40 games and uphold the confidence of enabler Jim Hendry, who said this after the general manager's pet rock was named the closer: ``For his sake and ours, I hope he stays healthy because that's world-class stuff.''"

"The Dodgers continue to indicate they will try to fill those holes from within. The Dodgers and Colorado Rockies have had brief conversations regarding former All-Star Marcus Giles but Joe Bick, Giles' agent, said Monday evening that a deal did not appear likely."

"As of yesterday, the Phillies and Kris Benson had not discussed their long-term plans, the veteran righthander said. Benson, who signed a minor league deal with the team last month, has an opt-out clause in his contract that takes effect today if he is not added to the 40-man roster... The Indians released former Phillies reliever Aaron Fultz yesterday, but don't expect him land in Philadelphia."

"From the team’s perspective, Crisp’s groin injury in spring training has as much to do with the center field issue as Jacoby Ellsbury’s emergence. But as far as Crisp is concerned, his two days in Japan have been great, and any talk about his injury is now old news... A trade remains very much a possibility for Crisp, but much like his injury, it is a topic for another day."

"Texas Rangers outfielder and trade target Marlon Byrd and Chicago Cubs general manager Jim Hendry exchanged pleasantries on the field at HoHoKam Park Monday morning. It may end up being the only thing the Rangers and Cubs exchange this spring. "

"It's no secret in the Brewers' clubhouse that first baseman Prince Fielder and leftfielder Ryan Braun have been identified as the first players for management to approach to discuss multi-year contract offers."

"With opening day a week from today, the Rays still have a lot of work to do in finalizing their roster. Though some decisions could be made in the next couple of days, trade talks and injuries further complicate the process...Two interesting outfielders who recently became available are Reed Johnson (released by Toronto) and Jeff DaVanon (released by the Padres). DaVannon, 34, has experience with Maddon with the Angels."

"The Rays still have 42 players officially in camp, a number that includes the absent Juan Salas and injured players Rocco Baldelli and Brian Anderson. The Rays also are carrying two pitchers who haven't seen game action in more than a week because of injuries, Chad Orvella and Kurt Birkins. There are other matters to be sorted out, but Longoria's status remains at the forefront. "

"Veteran second baseman Marcus Giles, signed to a minor league contract, said he was told Sunday he will not make the team. There were indications he will be given a chance to make another team. The Los Angeles Dodgers have shown some interest in light of injuries that have sidelined second baseman Jeff Kent (hamstring) and their two third base candidates, Andy LaRoche (torn right wrist ligament) and Nomar Garciaparra (broken bone in his right hand)."

"The Rockies moved closer to finalizing their rotation Sunday by shifting Kip Wells to the bullpen, and all but declared Jayson Nix the starter at second base by cutting ties with Marcus Giles. Technically, the Giles matter remains unresolved, but the Rockies are attempting to trade him to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Giles told teammates goodbye after the Rockies' 8-2 victory over the Dodgers at Hi Corbett Field. He is pulling for a trade, revealing that he would not accept a Triple-A assignment. "

"Daniels, essentially, is left waiting and hoping that another team will step up and bail him out of this jam by making him an offer for Laird that he can't refuse. Otherwise, Laird opens the season behind the plate for the Rangers and Saltalamacchia very likely finds himself wearing a RedHawks uniform. I can't help but think there's just something not right about that picture."

"Beyond the trade possibilities, San Diego released center fielder Jeff DaVanon, and Toronto released outfielder Reed Johnson, who has played all three outfield spots in his career. The Cubs would have more interest in Johnson if he clears release waivers midweek."

"The Mets are interested in newly released outfielder Reed Johnson, although Minaya said the Amazin's "are going to go with our guys right now.''"

"Dave Pepe, the agent for Twins closer Joe Nathan, will meet with the club today to try to complete negotiations on a contract extension."

"Dontrelle Willis gave him a hug. Other teammates shook his hand. And as he replied to text messages from friends who had heard the news, Miguel Cabrera wore the look of a man whose big payday had arrived."

"If all goes well, after earning the $153.3 million the extension reportedly is worth, Cabrera might still be in his prime. His earning power is virtually limitless, but for now, he simply is shrugging his shoulders and saying, "What contract? I've not signed anything.""

"Wes Helms hit his first home run of the spring yesterday, and manager Charlie Manuel said afterward he thinks the third baseman will be able to help a major league team this season. Whether that team is the Phillies remains doubtful. They continue to explore potential trades for the third baseman, who has done an admirable job of blocking out the speculation while hitting .289 this spring."

"Third baseman Miguel Cabrera has agreed to an eight-year, $153.3 million contract extension with the Detroit Tigers. It seems safe to say Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard won't be looking for anything less than that in future negotiations."

"Second baseman Felipe Lopez said last week he would not accept a role on the bench, and the Baltimore Orioles and Chicago Cubs are among the teams who have expressed interest in acquiring the 2005 All-Star. Assuming the Nationals don't make a trade before they open the season Sunday, however, Lopez likely will sit while Ronnie Belliard starts at second base and Cristian Guzman starts at shortstop."

"The Nationals are trying to trade López, though scouts and executives from other teams appear more interested in Belliard, who is cheaper -- $3.5 million for the next two years as opposed to Lopez's $4.9 million for 2008 -- and performing better. Belliard is hitting .383 this spring, López .231."

"Kim has a one-year, major-league contract that calls for $850,000 in base pay, plus as much as $1.15 million in performance bonuses. But the contract is not guaranteed, and the Pirates can buy out Kim for $300,000 by 2 p.m. Wednesday. It is believed they already have had internal discussions to that effect."

"The White Sox figure to wait as long as possible to make a decision at third base, and that works in Joe Crede's favor. If they can't move Crede in a trade, Josh Fields has nowhere to go but Class AAA Charlotte. Juan Uribe might have been put on waivers last week to gauge any trade interest, but he has played well enough in the Cactus League to earn the bulk of the playing time at second base."

"That the Tigers, desperate for a pitcher at the back end of their bullpen, are trying to have serious discussions with Oakland about closer Huston Street. But so far, the A's have not even decided if they want to trade Street. And if they do, they're likely to ask more than the Tigers have to offer."

"Left-hander Kent Mercker doesn't want what he said at the start of spring training to be taken as an ultimatum. Mercker said upon unretiring that he either would make the Reds or go back to retirement."

"The Reds should sign Adam Dunn to a contract extension. Half of you just said, "Exactly." The other half just threw down the paper in disgust."

"In acquiring Cabrera from the Los Angeles Angels for pitcher Jon Garland, the Sox did so knowing that he would be in his walk year. Williams said at the start of camp that the goal was to lock up Cabrera with a multiyear deal this spring, but the talks continue."

"Piniella feels he needs an outfielder such as the Red Sox' Coco Crisp. The Cubs continue to covet Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts. And a stockpile of Cubs pitching that Hendry planned to use to make trades to complete his roster plans remains like a logjam as decision time fast approaches."

"The odds are that C.C. Sabathia, for example, will be gone on the wings of free agency next winter, thanks to the deep pockets of the New York Yankees. The contracts of Casey Blake, Jason Michaels, Paul Byrd and Joe Borowski, integral parts of the team and older than 30, expire at the end of the season."

"With 490 homers in his 15-year career, even 700 might be far-fetched. B