Odds and Ends: Sabathia, Pavano, Penny, Burnett

Random links to start the morning…

• Ben Shpigel says Billy Wagner’s $10.5MM for ’09 is not covered by insurance, making the Mets unlikely suitors for K-Rod (hat tip to MetsBlog).
• The Padres claimed knuckleballer Charlie Haeger.  You have to like the move; he’s only 24.
• Ken Davidoff writes about Nationals pitcher Tim Redding, who dreams about returning to the Yankees one day.
• Davidoff also says that contrary to popular belief, C.C. Sabathia did not buy a home in Southern California.
• In another post, Davidoff lists the worst trades of ’08.
• Nats GM Jim Bowden will probably bring in a veteran first baseman next year due to health concerns with Nick Johnson and Dmitri Young.
• Not much cooking on the Pedro Alvarez front…Bud Selig testified yesterday, and the next part of the hearing isn’t until September 23rd.
• Andrew Baggarly explains Bengie Molina’s contentious relationship with the Giants.
• From Saturday: Carl Pavano’s side of the story.  Can Pavano be a useful pitcher next year?
• Larry Borowsky would like to see the Cardinals enterain an extension for Todd Wellemeyer.  He’s eligible for free agency after the ’09 season.
• Joel Sherman isn’t sure the Yankees will invite Andy Pettitte back next year.
• Brad Penny says he pitched through a shoulder injury because of uncertainty around his ’09 option.
• Interesting fact…A.J. Burnett is second in MLB with 3286 pitches thrown (Sabathia jumped into the lead last night).  Many of the ’07 leaders in pitches thrown came down with injuries this year.
• Michael O’Keefe sits down with agent Scott Boras.
• ESPN’s Buster Olney notes that the Blue Jays will pursue a shortstop this winter.
• All you ever wanted to know about Dr. James Andrews.
• Jed Hoyer explains where Curt Schilling learned his negotiating tactics.