August 2008

« July 2008 | Main | September 2008 »

Padres Release Tomko And Iguchi

Tom Krasovic of the San Diego Union-Tribune is reporting that the Padres released Brett Tomko and Tadahito Iguchi following today's game. The move was made to make room on the 40-man roster for prospects Matt Antonelli and Wade LeBlanc. Tomko was 2-7 with a 6.30 ERA in 22 appearances (10 starts) this season. Iguchi was hitting .231/.292/.304 in 81 games this season. Tomko signed a 1-year deal prior to the season that paid him $3MM. Iguchi was given a 1-year extension that paid him $3.85MM this season. Cork Gaines writes for RaysIndex.com and can be reached here.   Continue Reading

---

Rosenthal's Latest: Burrell, Rockies

Ken Rosenthal over at FOX Sports has up a new Full Count video up: The Phillies want Pat Burrell back, and they feel they have a better than 50-50 chance of re-signing him because Burrell has mutual interest. Rosenthal thinks Burrell should command somewhere between $14MM and $17MM per season. Rosenthal discusses the Rockies' offseason, throwing out the usual suspects (Matt Holliday, Garrett Atkins, and Todd Helton) as possible trade pieces. Rosenthal points out Helton's salary makes him difficult, and also proposes a scenario in which the Rockies trade both Atkins and Holliday, sign Burrell to play left field, and...   Continue Reading

---

Week In Review: 8/24 - 8/30

Sunday afternoon is here again... let's have a look back at some of the moves and rumors since last time: The injury-plagued Red Sox acquired Mark Kotsay to help compensate for their injuries. In exchange, the Braves received minor league outfielder Luis Sumoza. Nice acquisition by the Red Sox; Kotsay has been swinging a solid bat this season. The Twins acquired Eddie Guardado from Texas in exchange for minor league pitcher Mark Hamburger. Guardado has spent the majority of his career with Minnesota and provides a solid arm to the bullpen. To make room for him, they DFA'd Mike Lamb....   Continue Reading

---

D'Backs Acquire Eckstein

It's official: The Diamondbacks have acquired Blue Jays shortstop David Eckstein in exchange for minor league pitcher Chad Beck, according to MLB.com. Eckstein has posted a respectable line of .273/.352/.355 this season over 75 games with Toronto. Rotoworld sees Beck, 23, as a long shot to make it to the majors as starter, but feels he can reach the big-league level as a reliever. Beck has had success at both Class-A levels this season. He posted a 2.04 ERA with South Bend, and after being promoted to High-A Visalia, struggled as a starter but has posted a very nice 1.37...   Continue Reading

---

Tejada To Skip Winter Ball, Look For Extension

Jose de Jesus Ortiz of the Houston Chronicle is reporting that Miguel Tejada is planning to skip winter ball this year, and will look to sign an extension to keep him wearing an Astros uniform for several years to come. Tejada is a rare case - a star player who plays Winter Ball every season. This winter, however, Tejada plans to relax and spend time with his family as he looks ahead to 2009: “I want to have a super season,” he said. “I want to see if after next year I can stay here.” Given the weak shortstop market...   Continue Reading

---

Latest On Pedro Alvarez

Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has a source that claims the Player's Association will only focus on the status of Pedro Alvarez' contract and not on the contract of Eric Hosmer. Kovacevic says the MLBPA will argue that Hosmer's contract was only delayed so the Pirates could have more time to negotiate with Alvarez. However, Jonathan Mayo obtained a copy of the grievance filed by the union which suggests that Alvarez' contract will not be the sole focus (emphasis Mayo's). The Commissioner's Office, without notice to the MLBPA, unilaterally determined to permit Clubs to negotiate with drafted players after...   Continue Reading

---

Mariners' Top Pick Remains Unsigned

Jim Hickey of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer is reporting that the Mariners and their top pick, Josh Fields, remain about $500K apart in their negotiations. As a player that has completed his college eligibility, Fields was not subject to the August 15 deadline for picks to sign. Fields' agent, Scott Boras is demanding $2MM while the Mariners are said to be offering $1.5MM, which is in line with the MLB's slotting recommendations. Hickey feels it is unlikely that Boras and Fields will move from their asking price and seem willing to let Fields pitch for an independent league team this year...   Continue Reading

---

Sherman's Latest: Yankees' Off-Season Plans

Earlier this week Hank Steinbrenner promised changes this off-season for the Yankees. Today Joel Sherman of the New York Post speculates on what those changes could look like... Sources tell Sherman that Steinbrenner wants to make CC Sabathia the highest paid pitcher ever. Sherman thinks Shane Victorino would be a nice fit for the Yankees in center field. Some Yankees officials are toying with the idea of trading some of their young pitching if the Yankees do land Sabathia and another veteran such as AJ Burnett. Sherman thinks a player like Phil Hughes could be used to land a young...   Continue Reading

---

Odds And Ends: Taveras, Brewers, Kent

A few notes from around the MLBiverse... Troy E. Renck says Willy Taveras prefers to stay with the Rockies, despite being claimed off waivers. Taveras speculates that he was claimed by either the Yankees or the Nationals. Renck says it is unlikely that Taveras will be traded during the season. Tom Haudricourt is reporting that the Brewers don't expect to make any deals prior to tonight's deadline to acquire players that would be eligible for the post-season. Tony Jackson of the LA Daily News is reporting that Jeff Kent's knee injury could be career-ending. Kent is contemplating retirement following the...   Continue Reading

---

D-Backs Now Favorite To Land Eckstein

Ken Rosenthal is reporting that the D-Backs are the favorite to land David Eckstein from the Blue Jays, prior to tonight's deadline for players to be eligible for the post-season. Previously we heard that both the D-Backs and the Angels were in pursuit of Eckstein. Eckstein, 33, is almost certain to be traded before the deadline for setting postseason rosters at midnight Sunday. While talks are fluid, the Jays currently are more inclined to trade with the D-backs, sources say. Rosenthal says the Angels are now considering other options, including Omar Vizquel of the Giants and Juan Castro of the...   Continue Reading

---

Kurt Birkins Released

Joe Smith of the St. Pete Times is reporting that the Rays have released lefty reliever Kurt Birkins. The move was made to open a spot on the 40-man roster in preparation for the September roster expansion. Birkins made six appearances for the Rays earlier in the year and spent parts of the last two seasons with the Orioles, including two starts in '07. He posted a 7.52 ERA in 40.2 innings with 29 strikeouts and 28 walks for Durham. Given the demand for lefty relievers, look for Birkins to land a job in a contender's bullpen for the final...   Continue Reading

---

Kris Benson Released

The Delaware News-Journal reported that Kris Benson was released by the Phillies following last night's game. Benson had indicated earlier that his preference was to be a starter and the Phillies do not have any openings in their rotation. Benson was 1-4 with a 5.52 ERA in 11 starts in triple-A. He was making $75K per month without any clauses. Cork Gaines writes for RaysIndex.com and can be reached here.   Continue Reading

---

Website Notes

A few administrative notes about the website... Just got finished deleting a bunch of spam comments. If you ever see a commenter leaving lame spam links or doing self-promotion, just drop me a line and I'll take care of it. Emails are also welcome if you see anything inappropriate in the comments. The commenting policy can be seen here. Please email me if an inappropriate ad appears on the site. I want people to be able to read the site at the office! We have made a change in the way the site loads. Hopefully it is now loading up...   Continue Reading

---

Taveras Claimed Off Waivers

Willy Taveras has been claimed off waivers. There is no indication that the Rockies are actually going to work out a deal with the team that claimed him but there has been interest in the speedy outfielder from the Nationals, Phillies and Mets.   Continue Reading

---

D-Backs, Angels Interested In Eckstein

The Angels have been in pursuit of infield depth this week, and were rumored to be finalizing a deal with the Blue Jays for veteran shortstop and 2006 World Series MVP, David Eckstein until a "mystery" team entered the running. Ken Rosenthal is now reporting that the mystery team is the Arizona Diamondbacks. Both teams are looking to finalize the deal before Sunday's deadline for setting post-season rosters. The Angels would mainly use Eckstein as a backup, but the D-backs need a boost in the infield since Orlando Hudson is out for the rest of the season. It seems the...   Continue Reading

---

Vizquel Wants To Play Next Year

Omar Vizquel, arguably one of the best defensive shortstops in the game, is not ready to retire and if he cannot sign with a Major League club in 2009, he'll look for playing time in Japan. "I've played here long enough in America," he told Henry Schulman, of the San Francisco Chronicle. "I've seen every team, every ballpark. I think it would be great to experience a new league and something new. I played in Japan in 2000 on the major-league all-star tour and I found it very cool - good baseball, good fans. Why not? It's a new culture."...   Continue Reading

---

Astros Sign Erstad, Moehler To Extensions

Astros MLB.com beat writer Krysten Oliphant reports that the team has signed veteran outfielder Darin Erstad and right-handed pitcher Brian Moehler to one-year extensions. Erstad gets a $1.75MM deal plus bonuses and Moehler nets a $2.3MM extension and bonuses; he has an option for 2010. Erstad and Moehler have been a couple of bright spots among Ed Wade's offseason acquisitions.   Continue Reading

---

Angels Eyeing Backup Shortstops

FRIDAY: Blue Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi confirmed he's in discussions with the Angels about his shortstops. THURSDAY: With Maicer Izturis out for the season and Erick Aybar day-to-day, the Angels are looking to acquire a veteran backup shortstop. Backup at second base wouldn't be a bad idea either, in case Howie Kendrick's injury is serious. Mike DiGiovanna names John McDonald, David Eckstein, Marco Scutaro, Juan Castro, and Jamey Carroll as targets. The numbers on these guys: McDonald: .222/.269/.292 in 162 PAs. Owed $350K in '08, $1.9MM in '09. Eckstein: .274/.353/.357 in 293 PAs. Owed $830K in '08. Scutaro: .265/.347/.348 in...   Continue Reading

---

Latest On Hosmer, Alvarez

5:49pm: Disappointing development for the Royals - Hosmer cannot play until the grievance is resolved. The hearing takes place September 10th, so he won't miss too much time. 9:08am: Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette provides his analysis of the Pedro Alvarez situation. How much of this is due to the rivalry between Pirates team president Frank Coonelly and agent Scott Boras? Is Alvarez making a mistake by letting this drag on? Peter Gammons blames Bud Selig, Don Fehr, and Boras for this mess. Kovacevic does not believe Alvarez will be eligible to return to college in the fall. Independent...   Continue Reading

---

D'Backs Claim Ledezma

According to the Arizona Republic, the Diamondbacks claimed lefty Wil Ledezma off waivers from the Padres. Ledezma, 27, posted a 4.47 ERA in 54.1 innings. Walks have been a problem for him. He's under team control through 2010, if the D'Backs want to go to arbitration with him.   Continue Reading

---

Elias Rankings Update

Eddie Bajek of Detroit Tigers Thoughts ran the Elias numbers for the NL infielders. Thoughts: Despite his injury, Orlando Hudson appears safe as a Type A. The D'Backs could get a draft pick bonanza if Hudson, Adam Dunn, and Brandon Lyon are offered arbitration and sign elsewhere. That won't help them in '09 though. Casey Blake is a Type B; I could see him seeking a multiyear deal in a weak third base market. The Dodgers may re-sign him, though. Rafael Furcal seems to have neither Type A nor Type B status, due to his injury this year. So the...   Continue Reading

---

Baseball Blogs Weigh In: Pedro Alvarez

Let's take a look at what is being written about the Pedro Alvarez-Scott Boras-Pirates situation in the Blogosphere... The Pittsburgh Lumber Co. feels this situation is more about Boras versus MLB than Alvarez versus the Pirates. They feel it is too early for Pirates fans to turn against Alvarez and suggest this will all be forgotten next summer. Where have you gone, Andy Van Slyke? wonders if this is not about getting more money for Alvarez. They wonder if Boras has a more sinister motive, to set a precedent for allowing negotiations after the August 15 deadline, in essence making...   Continue Reading

---

Molony's Latest: Fuentes, Red Sox, White Sox

Here's the latest from MLB.com's Jim Molony. The Red Sox are eyeing Rockies closer Brian Fuentes, though Ken Rosenthal has said Fuentes cannot be traded this month. Plus, the Rockies still intend to make a playoff run in the weak NL West. The Red Sox and White Sox had scouts at Wednesday night's Astros-Reds game. Roy Oswalt pitched that one, but he won't be traded. The Reds still have some good trade candidates in the bullpen (David Weathers has cleared waivers, Jeremy Affeldt is a free agent after the season).   Continue Reading

---

Odds and Ends: Hart, Ellis, Mientkiewicz, Varitek

Today's random links... Ken Rosenthal discusses possible changes at various GM positions. Jon Heyman says Pat Gillick could take a high-ranking role with the Blue Jays if not the Mariners. Former Indians and Rangers GM John Hart is interested in the Mariners job. The Mariners hope to have their permanent GM hired by the end of October. A Japanese pitcher invented a new pitch called the shake. Eddie Bajek wonders if Mark Ellis could handle shortstop. It's good to think out of the box given the free agent market at the position. Doug Mientkiewicz would like to spend another season...   Continue Reading

---

Olivo Won't Be Back With Royals In '09

According to Sam Mellinger of the Kansas City Star, catcher Miguel Olivo won't be back with the Royals in 2009. (Olivo's exact words: "Hell no.") Olivo's $2.7MM option for '09 is mutual, so he'll decline it even if the Royals exercise it. Olivo is upset about his lack of playing time, but he knew John Buck was part of the team when he signed. Olivo, 30, is hitting .264/.291/.472 in 261 plate appearances. As Mellinger points out, that ugly OBP is actually a career high. To his credit, Olivo has hit lefties well and gunned down a healthy 37.9% of...   Continue Reading

---

Hank Promises Changes

WEDNESDAY: More on this topic...Hank named Sabathia and Burnett as pitchers of interest. It's not surprising to hear those two will be on the Yankees' radar. THURSDAY, 3:26pm: Also of note, Ken Davidoff talked to Brian Cashman about nine-figure free agent deals. 8:47am: Not exactly news, but we'll mention it anyway. Hank Steinbrenner on 2009: "There is going to be a lot going on this offseason. I promise you that." Previously, Hank mentioned the Yankees' likely pursuit of veteran pitching. It would make sense to bring Mike Mussina and Andy Pettitte back on reasonable one-year deals if possible, and then...   Continue Reading

---

Phillies Acquire Matt Stairs

5:56pm: ESPN's Buster Olney says the Jays will receive pitcher Fabio Castro, who warmed up during today's game against the Cubs. The 23 year-old lefty has struggled with his control, but still makes for a solid acquisition by J.P. Ricciardi. 12:19am: According to Ken Rosenthal, the Phillies acquired outfielder/first baseman Matt Stairs from the Blue Jays. The prospect in the deal has yet to be determined. Stairs was designated for assignment recently. He fills the Phillies' need for a left-handed bench bat (likely taking them out of the market for Mike Lamb). Stairs, 40, hit .250/.342/.394 in 368 plate appearances...   Continue Reading

---

Stark's Latest: Teixeira, Lamb, Ibanez, Blake

Hot stove highlights from Jayson Stark's latest... Stark sees the Mets picking up Carlos Delgado's $12MM option for '09, taking them out of the Mark Teixeira sweepstakes. He sees the Yankees in the mix for Tex. Will Teixeira top the $140MM the Rangers offered him? The Yanks will also pursue a top flight starting pitcher, with C.C. Sabathia and Ben Sheets as Plans A and B. Stark does not see the Braves diving into megadeals for Sabathia, Sheets, or A.J. Burnett. They'll have payroll room, but could pursue trades or mid-tier free agents. Stark says friends of Tom Glavine and...   Continue Reading

---

Odds and Ends: Indians, Rays, Jays

Time to cobble together today's links. The Dodgers designated Tanyon Sturtze for assignment. The 37 year-old pitched only 2.1 innings for the big club. Dejan Kovacevic does not believe the Pedro Alvarez issue will prevent the Pirates from working with Scott Boras in the future. RotoAuthority assembles a fantasy team entirely of players who went undrafted in March. Dave Cameron wonders if the Indians will make a trade due to their catching surplus. Rays Index wants to make it clear that drafting high is only a small factor in the Rays' success. Drunk Jays Fans caught an amusing exchange between...   Continue Reading

---

Todd Jones' Tigers Career May Be Over

According to John Lowe of the Detroit Free Press, Todd Jones may have thrown his last pitch for the Tigers. The 40 year-old is on the DL with shoulder inflammation and tendinitis, and manager Jim Leyland doesn't expect him back before the end of the season. Jones is a free agent this winter. He earned $7MM for 41.2 innings of 4.97 ball, walking more batters than he struck out. Despite the poor season he'll surely find interest on the market.   Continue Reading

---

Heyman Predicts '09 Options

THURSDAY: Reader Christopher G. alerted me to the fact that Smoltz will be a free agent after this season. According to this MLB.com article, he has a vesting option for '09 based on pitching 200 innings in '08. Obviously Smoltz is unable to reach that total. WEDNESDAY: SI.com's Jon Heyman weighs in on 12 players with options for '09, speculating on whether they will be exercised. Most of the dozen are easy to predict, except for John Smoltz at $12MM and Brad Penny at $9.25MM with a $2MM buyout. Heyman sees both of those being picked up. You can browse...   Continue Reading

---

Pavano Placed On Waivers

According to George King of the New York Post, the Yankees placed oft-injured starter Carl Pavano on waivers. He will almost certainly clear, but the Yankees might be able to trade him if they assume most of the $3.8MM remaining on his contract. King speculates on the Mets as a fit.   Continue Reading

---

Braves Sign Elmer Dessens

According to MLB.com's Mark Bowman, the Braves signed 37 year-old righty Elmer Dessens to join their rotation for September. Dessens posted a 4.03 ERA and 3.0 K/BB ratio in 105 innings in the Triple A Mexican League. Dessens had been released by the Pirates in spring due to a back injury.   Continue Reading

---

Drama Over Pedro Alvarez Contract

4:51pm: Jim Callis' analysis is a must-read at Baseball America. There is a legitimate chance Alvarez is treated as if he didn't sign, and will become eligible for the '09 draft. 2:08pm: Jonathan Mayo, Jenifer Langosch, and Kevin Goldstein dig up more details. Turns out Hosmer turned down $5.5MM prior to the deadline, but agreed to $6MM during an MLB-approved extension. The Nats may have had an extension for Aaron Crow as well. THURSDAY, 8:19am: MLB and the Pirates say the grievance is without merit, while Boras says the Bucs violated MLB's rules and need to "come clean." Dejan Kovacevic...   Continue Reading

---

Fuentes, Taveras Placed On Waivers

3:25pm: Rosenthal says Fuentes' trip to the bereavement list pretty much kills the chances of a trade. WEDNESDAY, 10:55am: Troy E. Renck weighs in, suggesting that Taveras might clear waivers. The Nationals like him, but don't want to add payroll. He expects the Dodgers, Rays, and Cardinals to put in claims on Fuentes (the Dodgers would win). The price remains a premium young starter, even though now the receiving team would get one less month of Fuentes. TUESDAY: As expected, the Rockies have placed closer Brian Fuentes and center fielder Willy Taveras on waivers. Ken Rosenthal does not expect either...   Continue Reading

---

Red Sox Acquire Kotsay

12:01pm: According to ESPN's Keith Law, the Braves will receive minor league outfielder Luis Sumoza. 10:23am: Rosenthal says it's done, though the prospect remains unknown. He is now saying Kotsay did waive no-trade rights, and received $325K to do so. 9:14am: Rosenthal says it's close, but the teams have not yet agreed on the mid-level prospect. He says Kotsay does not have no-trade protection this year. WEDNESDAY, 8:41am: The latest - The Boston Globe's Amalie Benjamin wrote late last night that a deal had not been agreed upon. Meanwhile, John Tomase of the Boston Herald notes Kotsay's strong relationship with...   Continue Reading

---

Odds and Ends: Burnett, Inoa, Minaya, Glavine

Today's links... Pablo Ozuna...designated for assignment again. Additionally, the Phillies cut Andy Tracy. The 34 year-old hit .288/.377/.516 in Triple A this year. Eddie Bajek added AL infielders to his Elias rankings. Orlando Cabrera and Edgar Renteria are Type As, while Mark Ellis and Mark Grudzielanek are Type Bs. Cabrera could net the Sox some picks. The Phillies would like to bring Jamie Moyer back next year, but so far they've only had informal talks. Earlier this month Moyer spoke of an obligation with the Phillies, but he is not under contract for '09. The Phillies have also had informal...   Continue Reading

---

Will Yanks Make Any Trades?

Joel Sherman of the New York Post discusses the Yankees' trade prospects in a blog post today. The Yankees have a 3-5% chance of making the playoffs this year, according to Baseball Prospectus. Sherman suggests Johnny Damon, Bobby Abreu, Andy Pettitte, Mike Mussina, and Carl Pavano as players with a slight chance of being dealt. No-trade clauses would present an obstacle for most of these players, however. As Sherman notes, Abreu is locked in as a Type A free agent. For the Yankees to receive draft picks for him this winter, they'd have to offer him arbitration and have him...   Continue Reading

---

Mike Lamb Designated

TUESDAY: MLB.com's Jim Molony suggests Lamb could be a fit for the Phillies, Cubs, Mets, or Brewers. MONDAY: According to Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, third baseman Mike Lamb was designated for assignment today to make room for Eddie Guardado. Manager Ron Gardenhire questioned Lamb's energy level. Lamb is owed another $690K this year plus $3MM in '09 and a $100K buyout for '10. Several moves and near-moves made by the Twins in recent months have shown a willingness to spend some dough midseason. Lamb's move back to the AL didn't work out; he hit just .233/.276/.322 in 261...   Continue Reading

---

MLBTR Chat Transcript

Click here to read today's chat.   Continue Reading

---

Odds and Ends: Ricciardi, Guardado, Alvarez

Let's round 'em up... Chat today, 2pm CST. Richard Griffin of the Toronto Star tries to view J.P. Ricciardi's tenure from both sides. Drunk Jays Fans gives their take on the article. Aaron Gleeman takes a closer look at Eddie Guardado, while Jamey Newberg tells us about Mark Hamburger. Inspired by Nelson Cruz's excellent '08 MLB debut, Rob Neyer and Sam Mellinger discuss cheap talent and "4A" players. Do Jeff Bailey, Mike Hessman, Joe Koshansky, Scott McClain, Terry Tiffee, and Josh Whitesell fit the bill? It's always fun when these guys get a legitimate shot. The Pirates are getting frustrated...   Continue Reading

---

Many Marlins Due Raises

Mike Berardino of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel discusses the Marlins' difficult situation this winter, with as many as 18 players facing arbitration. Berardino projects salaries for these players in this chart. As you may know, players typically reach arbitration the offseason after they cross the three-year service time mark. The resulting raise can be as much as 1000%, with Ryan Howard's case last year the most drastic example ($900K in '07, $10MM in '08). The Marlins' biggest jump figures to be second baseman Dan Uggla - $417K in 08, perhaps $5MM or more in '09. Most players face arbitration three...   Continue Reading

---

Elias Ranking Update

Eddie Bajek has been doing great work reverse-engineering the Elias rankings over at his blog, Detroit Tigers Thoughts. He's now ranked catchers, first basemen, outfielders, and designated hitters for both leagues. An explanation of free agent draft pick compensation can be found here. For a team to get draft picks, they need to offer arbitration to their free agent and then have him decline and sign elsewhere. So it either has to be a player they wouldn't mind having on a one-year deal, or a player who is a lock for a multiyear contract. Looking at Eddie's (unfinished) list, the...   Continue Reading

---

Kenny Rogers, Others Placed On Waivers

TUESDAY: Jon Paul Morosi of the Detroit Free Press says Rogers and other Tigers were placed on waivers Friday. So we'll know today who cleared and who was claimed. Rogers could make sense for a contender like the Mets. Buster Olney doesn't seem him getting that far - he guesses the Yankees or Red Sox. MONDAY: According to Tom Gage of The Detroit News, it may be the end of the line for Tigers lefty Kenny Rogers. The 43 year-old has a 5.09 ERA in 161 innings, and his walk rate continues to climb after last year's jump. He's owed...   Continue Reading

---

Twins Acquire Eddie Guardado

3:30pm: The Rangers will receive minor league reliever Mark Hamburger. La Velle E. Neal III expects the Twins to pick up the rest of Guardado's salary. 2:13pm: According to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News, the Twins have acquired Eddie Guardado from the Rangers. Joe Christensen wrote on Friday that the Twins would make a claim but didn't expect a deal. Guardado has been useful for the Rangers, posting a 3.65 ERA in 49.1 innings. The ERA is a bit deceiving, but it's still a helpful addition for the Twins. Guardado is a familiar face, having spent a decade...   Continue Reading

---

Molony's Latest: Red Sox, Kelly Johnson

Here's a look at the latest blog post from MLB.com's Jim Molony. Molony agrees with previous reports - the Red Sox are eyeing outfield help. An inquiry on Darin Erstad fizzled, while Mark Kotsay remains on the radar. Drew might be headed to the DL. The Red Sox might also be eyeing another starter, given Josh Beckett's injury. Molony speculates that Kevin Millwood or Vicente Padilla could make sense (both have cleared waivers). Molony expects Braves second baseman Kelly Johnson to be traded this winter. Johnson, 26, slipped to .264/.333/.405 in 482 plate appearances this year. He'll be arbitration-eligible for...   Continue Reading

---

Odds and Ends: Indians, Livan, Braves, Friedman

Let's round up today's random links. The Pirates received catcher Robinzon Diaz from the Blue Jays in the Jose Bautista deal. Not too shabby, he should develop into a credible cheap backup. Yahoo's Gordon Edes sees Manny Ramirez playing for the Mets in '09. The point continues to be hammered home - the Indians intend to acquire a proven closer this winter. Brian Fuentes seems a reasonable target. RotoAuthority takes a closer look at Cliff Lee. Rockies manager Clint Hurdle wants to see if Livan Hernandez fits into their plans for 2009. Hernandez has allowed a remarkable 224 hits in...   Continue Reading

---

Heyman's Latest: Sabathia, Dunn, Huff, Mora

Hot off the press from SI.com's Jon Heyman: An executive who knows C.C. Sabathia well told Heyman the pitcher's first choice in free agency is the Giants. It's not a great fit, as starting pitching is the Giants' strength and Sabathia would add another $100MM+ contract to their rotation. The Yankees are considered the offseason frontrunners for Sabathia, though former teammate Casey Blake sees C.C. in Dodger blue. Heyman believes a claim on Paul Byrd would've made sense for the Yanks. Heyman agrees with the Dodgers' choice not to risk a claim on Adam Dunn. That decision is tough to...   Continue Reading

---

Rosenthal's Latest: Rangers, Yankees, Phillies

Let's take a look at Ken Rosenthal's most recent Full Count video. Rangers president Nolan Ryan may be considering sweeping changes. He might replace the team's manager, GM, or both. If he chooses to install his own people, Gerry Hunsicker and Tim Purpura would be the top GM candidates. The Yankees are willing to trade off a few veteran impending free agents, but pretty much all of them have no-trade clauses. Those are not always an obstacle though. Danny Knobler recently heard the Yankees have yet to ask for waivers on their significant players. The Phillies have been frustrated trying...   Continue Reading

---

Millwood, Padilla, Catalanotto Clear Waivers

MLB.com's T.R. Sullivan has three more names for the cleared waivers list from the Rangers: Kevin Millwood, Vicente Padilla, and Frank Catalanotto. These players can now be traded to any team. Sullivan says the Rangers aren't looking to sell but are willing to listen. Millwood, 33, has a 5.24 ERA in 122 innings this year. He's been better than that; Millwood has been a victim of an abnormal amount of hits dropping in. He's dealt with a groin injury for much of the season, as well as a hamstring issue in spring. Millwood will earn another $1.6MM this year and...   Continue Reading

---

Week in Review: 8/17 - 8/23

Another week in the books, and we keep seeing big names moved after the July 31 non-waiver deadline. Let's look back on the past week: The Dodgers acquired Greg Maddux from the Padres for two minor league players to be named later. Nice acquisition to bolster their rotation, and does anyone want to place bets on how excited 20-year-old Clayton Kershaw is to get tips from Maddux every day for the rest of the season? The Pirates are exploring the idea of trading Jack Wilson this offseason more and more. Given the slim free agent market for shortstops, he would...   Continue Reading

---

Perrotto's Latest: Reds, Dempster, Silva, Lugo

John Perrotto's Every Given Sunday column is up over at Baseball Prospectus. For those without a BP subscription, here's the highlights: Perrotto believes that Reds owner Bob Castellini will give Walt Jocketty the go-ahead to dive into the free agent market this season in an attempt to contend in 2009. The Reds like their young core, and feel a solid bat or two can help them contend in NL Central immediately. Jed Lowrie's play since taking over for the injured Julio Lugo has convinced the Red Sox that he can be the everyday shortstop. They'll look to move Lugo (and...   Continue Reading

---

Rockies To Shop Atkins?

Everyone expects the Rockies to move Matt Holliday for pitching this winter, but Troy E. Renck suggests it might be Garrett Atkins instead. Atkins is expected to make around $8MM in arbitration next year, and with Ian Stewart developing at third and Todd Helton returning to first, Atkins becomes readily expendable. Renck points out that the third basement free agent market is sorely lacking, boosting Atkins value in a trade. Atkins can also play first base, making him a valuable player for ball clubs like the Twins and Angels. From those teams, Renck lists Glen Perkins, Kevin Slowey, Nick Adenhart,...   Continue Reading

---

Olney On The Free Agent Market

Buster Olney's latest below: False Echoes: "the phenomenon of veterans who have quickly descended from productive players into something much less than that over the last couple of years," often from discontinuing PED use. Olney thinks the industry is not going to throw "long-term dollars" at players in their mid 30s. That in combination with the economy and recent successes of small market clubs spells a bad market for mid-level free agents, according to Olney. If Olney's right, that's bad news for guys like Manny Ramirez; however, Manny has shown in L.A. that he can still produce. Overlooking all of...   Continue Reading

---

Aaron Crow's Perspective

Jim Bowden and the Nationals failed to sign first round draft pick Aaron Crow over a mere $900K. The process was a sticky one, to say the least. Eric SanInocencio, host of Baseball Digest Daily Live, sat down with Crow yesterday for an intriguing podcast and got his perspective in the failed negotiations. The interview is about 15 minutes into the show: Crow said the process was an emotional roller coaster, but was content with the resolution. In dealing with Washington and the way they handled the process and communicated with him and his family, he began to realize he'd...   Continue Reading

---

Rosenthal's Latest: Kotsay, Fuentes, Glavine, Smoltz

On August 18th, Rosenthal mentioned Mark Kotsay had cleared waivers, and that Brian Fuentes had not yet been placed. Here's an update, from today's Inside Pitch video: The Brewers and Red Sox are both showing interest in Kotsay. The Brewers would only pursue a trade if Ryan Braun's ribcage injury worsens, and so far he looks more than fine. The Sox made a play for lefty-hitting Brian Giles before Giles vetoed the deal, so it makes sense that they'd exert similar effort toward Kotsay. Even more so now that J.D. Drew has a herniated disc. Fuentes is expected to be...   Continue Reading

---

A Closer Look at Strasburg

A spot on the US Olympic team has thrown some extra attention on 20-year old San Diego State hurler Stephen Strasburg, likely to be the top pick in next year's draft. As Thomas Boswell wrote today in the Washington Post, Strasburg's fastball has been clocked at 101 mph and it's not even his best pitch (that would be his curveball). Boswell excited because his hometown Nats are so terrible, they just might be getting the No. 1 draft pick that would let them snag the 220 lb, 6'4" Strasburg. But Buster Olney rains on his parade: Strasburg's advisor is Scott...   Continue Reading

---

Odds and Ends: Manny, Pavano, Gonzalez

Some Saturday mid-day linkage: Hitoki Iwase was lit up in the Olympics, possibly dropping his stock as a prospect. Iwase was one of several Japanese players being scouted by Major League clubs in Beijing. Luis Gonzalez reminisces about his trade to the Diamondbacks ten years ago. Manny Ramirez is not interested in talking about those old Philadelphia rumors. I'm shocked, shocked. J.D. Drew's back spasms are actually a herniated disk. According to Nick Cafardo, the Red Sox would love to add another outfielder, but can't seem to lay their hands on one. No offense to Jason Lane. He's baaaa-aaaack: Free-agent-to-be...   Continue Reading

---

Pondering Robertson's Future With The Tigers

As it stands, Jim Leyland's decision to drop Nate Robertson from the Tigers' rotation and send him to the bullpen is a strategic move to help the club now, but its impossible to look at the situation without an eye on 2009. Robertson acknowledged to reporters that his offseason plans will have to accommodate some kind of adjustment to his mechanics, pitching repertoire, or workout regimen. The slider is his signature pitch, but it hasn't been as effective this year, causing his ERA to hover around 6.04, the highest its been since his rookie season with Florida. The Tigers also...   Continue Reading

---

El Duque May Retire

According to Adam Rubin of the New York Daily News, Orlando Hernandez is opting to have surgery on his right big toe to remove a bunion, meaning his career is all but over. El Duque has resisted this procedure in the past because it may take more than a season to fully heal. Hernandez left his last outing on July 18th for Mets Double A affiliate Binghamton after only one inning citing discomfort on his foot. Alejandro A. Leal writes for UmpBump.com. Comments? Rumors? Email me: alexo (at) umpbump (dot) com.   Continue Reading

---

Braves Sign Rodrigo Lopez

The Braves signed 32 year-old righty Rodrigo Lopez to a minor league deal today with an option for '09. Lopez had surgery on a torn flexor tendon as well as Tommy John surgery in August of last year. Braves pitcher Jorge Campillo apparently recommended the team take a look at Lopez, a friend of his. We've seen teams take this strategy successfully in the past, signing a player coming off elbow surgery with an eye on the following season. Lopez had a decent half-season for the Rox last year before the injury surfaced.   Continue Reading

---

Rosenthal's Latest: Howard, Burrell, Burnett

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports has a new column up today. With Ryan Howard looking at maybe a $14MM salary in his second year of arbitration, the Phillies could shop him this winter. Rosenthal lays out a scenario where they trade Howard and use some of those young players to acquire Matt Holliday. In this scenario Pat Burrell could be re-signed to play first base. I was surprised to see that a club official sees the chances of retaining Burrell as better than 50-50. If A.J. Burnett opts out, he will again favor teams such as the Nationals, Orioles, and...   Continue Reading

---

Heyman's Latest: Bowden, Helton, Maddux, K-Rod

Let's take a look at the latest from SI.com's Jon Heyman. Despite the headline "Nats GM in trouble," Heyman says Jim Bowden has the support of his bosses. They do not blame him for Aaron Crow and are not concerned with his possible connection to the scout skimming scandal. Heyman suggests the Rockies could shop first baseman Todd Helton this winter if he demonstrates a healthy back in September. Here's the thing - if Helton was a free agent and you had to give him a three-year deal, what would you pay? $5MM a year maybe? Are the Rockies going...   Continue Reading

---

Twins Interested In Guardado

Everyday Eddie Guardado, a Twins mainstay for a decade, has apparently been placed on waivers by the Rangers. Joe Christensen says the Twins are interested and will probably make a claim, but don't expect to make a deal. He says the Twins were eyeing Guardado in July but wouldn't meet the Rangers' price. Guardado is currently closing for the Rangers, getting it done with a 3.21 ERA. A deeper look at his numbers indicates rougher waters ahead, but he's certainly a useful reliever. As far as I can tell, Guardado only has about $680K left on his contract this year....   Continue Reading

---

Baseball Blogs Weigh In: O's. Holliday, Glavine, Maddux, Cardinals, Jeter

A few notes on from around the baseball Blogospehere... Camden Chat feels the Orioles are stuck with players like Melvin Mora and Aubrey Huff, even though both have cleared waivers. Drunk Jays Fans thinks Matt Holliday will be too expensive in terms of contract and prospects for the Jays. Talking Chop does not want to see Tom Glavine back in a Braves uniform next season. Gaslamp Ball is not happy about San Diego trading Greg Maddux to the Dodgers and wonders why the Padres would want to help their divisional rival. Ducksnorts hates the Maddux deal as a fan, but...   Continue Reading

---

Pirates May Shop Jack Wilson This Winter

Pirates GM Neal Huntington was diplomatic when asked about Jack Wilson's future with the Pirates. But it seems pretty clear the 30 year-old shortstop will be shopped this winter. Wilson makes a fine trade chip for the Bucs, especially given the free agent market for shortstops. Orlando Cabrera may require three or four years, and he'll be 34 in November. Rafael Furcal wants to stay with the Dodgers. All the other free agents are question marks. Teams such as the Blue Jays, Tigers, Twins, Reds, Cardinals, and Giants may be looking for a shortstop. The Jays would probably only enter...   Continue Reading

---

Odds and Ends: Kazmir, Thomas, Sweeney

We'll kick it off with a few links today and add more bullets periodically. Cole Hamels feels that he handled his contract renewal last year immaturely. Over at The Hardball Times, Geoff Young looks at the best compensation picks of the 20th century. Geoff Blum's '09 option vests with one more plate appearance. Bronson Arroyo has a plan to make the Reds competitive. Matthew Cerrone explains Carlos Delgado's '09 option. Jeff Passan on the Cardinals' brilliant signing of Ryan Ludwick. Baseball Prospectus profiles #26-50 on their list of players to build a team around. Twins reliever Brian Bass accepted a...   Continue Reading

---

Odds And Ends: Lane, Taveras, Cubs, Reyes

Round three from the MLBiverse... The Red Sox have signed former Astros outfielder Jason Lane to a minor league deal. Troy E. Renck says that Willy Taveras could be moved this winter and speculates that the Nationals might be a good fit if Lastings Milledge is moved from center field. Paul Sullivan says the Cubs are not likely to make many changes this winter with only four key free agents. One of those free agents, Ryan Dempster, said that he would prefer to stay with the Cubs. Omar Minaya says Al Reyes turned down a major league job with another...   Continue Reading

---

Jays Acquire Jose Bautista

The Blue Jays have announced the acquisition of Jose Bautista from the Pirates for a player to be named later. Bautista is making $1.8MM this season, his first of arbitration eligibility. He signed a one year deal last winter, avoiding arbitration. Bautista was hitting .242/.325/.404 in 107 games for the Pirates, very close to his career marks of .240/.328/.397. Nothing amazing, but a decent pickup for a team with some question marks in the infield next year. Cork Gaines writes for RaysIndex.com and can be reached here.   Continue Reading

---

Odds And Ends: Glavine, Dunn, Draft, Tigers

A few more notes from around the MLBiverse... Tom Glavine will not need Tommy John surgery and Glavine puts the chances of an '09 return "50-50 at best." Scott Bordow takes a look at how the Adam Dunn acquisition is affecting the D-Backs. In Peter Gammons' latest piece he takes a look at how small-market teams ignored the slot recommendations from the commissioner's office, noting that the slot system "only rewards big market teams." In the same article, Gammons says the Tigers may have to reduce their payroll by $40MM next season. Gammons believes it will be very difficult, noting...   Continue Reading

---

Looking At The Yankees' Impending Free Agents

The Yankees have several big-name free agents looming this off-season, including Bobby Abreu, Andy Pettite, Ivan Rodriguez, Mike Mussina, and Jason Giambi ($5MM buyout for his $22MM option). Deciding who to bring back, who to let walk and who to offer arbitration could be the key decisions that have a ripple effect throughout the rest of baseball. Tyler Kepner says the Yankees have already decided to not bring back Abreu and Giambi at their current salaries, $16MM and $21MM respectively. However Kepler says the Yankees may be open to bringing Abreu back at a reduced rate, especially without any obvious...   Continue Reading

---

Breaking Down The Rangers Offseason

The Rangers figure to be very active this offseason. With the only pitching staff in baseball with a negative VORP (-46.7), that would likely be the area that sees the most change. We have already seen that Tom Hicks is not willing to throw free agency dollars at starting pitchers over 30. The Rangers have several good prospects that could be used as trade bait, including Engel Beltre and Elvis Andrus. And many feel that Jarrod Saltalamacchia will be moved this winter as the Rangers are deep at catcher. Jamey Newberg breaks down what the Rangers need to do this...   Continue Reading

---

Odds And Ends: Mets, Embree, Olsen, Hoffman, Izzy, Phillies

A few notes from around the MLBiverse... Bill Madden says the Mets may be out of luck for a closer, even if Huston Street and Brian Fuentes have cleared waivers and are available. Madden says the price tags are just too high for the Mets. Alan Embree hopes that not being traded is a sign the A's are going to pick up his $3MM option for next season. Scott Olsen said he prefers to be back with the Marlins in '09 but conceded that the Marlins may prefer to move him due to hi