10:16pm: Patrick Reusse of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that, despite the strong potential for Joe Mauer to miss the first few weeks of the season, Twins General Manager Bill Smith "made it clear that signing free agent Ivan Rodriguez" is not considered an option. They’re looking internally for a temporary solution.
10:15pm: Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle says that the Giants "have explored the idea" of signing Rodriguez. Orlando Cepeda talked to Pudge about the Giants’ interest at the WBC and says "he’s very happy about it. He would love to play here."
7:39pm: Danny Knobler at CBSSports.com writes that the Astros are showing interest in Pudge, though "it is not yet clear how serious the Astros’ interest is." Last night MLB.com’s Alyson Footer seemed quite certain the Astros would not be signing Rodriguez, after talking to GM Ed Wade.
5:35pm: La Velle E. Neal III of the Minneapolis Star Tribune says he has heard nothing from the Twins to indicate that they are interested in Rodriguez. The Twins are waiting for an update about Joe Mauer’s back, but Neal writes that, "as of now, there is nothing the Twins have heard that suggests Mauer will be out a long time."
2:03pm: As noted by Juan C. Rodriguez of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, the "Marlins have nothing to discuss with" Pudge if he is still demanding a good chunk of playing time.
1:17pm: SI.com’s Jon Heyman reports that the Twins and Giants have emerged as new potential landing spots for Pudge. He’d be a nice fill-in for the ailing Joe Mauer in Minnesota, and San Francisco reportedly may think about using him at first or third base.
9:19am: few Ivan Rodriguez rumors for the morning…
- According to Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com Pudge could sign shortly. When he was asked when we’ll know where he’s playing this year Rodriguez said "You’ll see soon."
- The Miami Herald has more quotes from Pudge, who repeats that he considers himself an everyday player. His agent is communicating with the Marlins, but Pudge says "nothing’s happening" right now.
- According to MLB.com’s Joe Frisaro Pudge is open to playing first or third base. He played a little first base for the Tigers in 2006 (and even a game at second) but he’s never played third in the majors.
