Let's round up some links from baseball's only four-team division…
- Darren Oliver is leaning strongly towards returning in 2012, reports MLB.com's T.R. Sullivan. "After what happened this year, that leaves a bad taste in my mouth," said Oliver. "I don't think I want it to end like that." The Rangers lefty is a Type-A free agent.
- The Angels have signed Dominican outfielders Ayendi Perez and Ranyemi Alberto Mendoza according to a press release from the Dominican Prospect League. Perez signed for $25K while Mendoza signed for $70K.
- The Mariners officially announced the hiring of Chris Gwynn as director of player development in a press release. Gwynn is Tony's brother, and he had previously been working in the Padres front office.
The Mariners are very lucky to have Chris Gwynn. Good luck Chris.
In spring training he can use the same parking spot
Papi seems to work harder under stress. Thus, a contract of, say, $9M/yr./2yrs. w/a mutual option 3rd, for the same amount, is as far as I would go for the parttime player, Ortiz. This, of course, would be contingent upon him meeting certain weight and conditioning requirements to keep in shape throughout the full span of the regular season. He may find a better deal elsewhere but it will have to be with an AL team that is filthy rich and plays its home games in a small park.