Reds GM Walt Jocketty told ESPN.com’s Jayson Stark that he doesn’t mind the constant discussion surrounding Aroldis Chapman’s role. "I like it. It creates interest in our club, and that's all good,” Jocketty said. “Everybody has a theory on it.” The GM says Chapman would like to start, and that the left-hander will remain in the bullpen for the 2012 season. Here are the rest of Stark’s notes and rumors:
- Twins people have told rival teams they aren’t likely to trade Justin Morneau this summer.
- When teams have asked about Denard Span, the Twins have said they aren’t interested in making trades right now, Stark reports. However, there are indications the Twins will listen on Span if the offers are good enough.
- Stark hears that the Nationals don’t consider Bryce Harper the answer in center field.
- Scouts and executives from three teams say they don’t have interest in Adam Lind, who was recently optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas.
- The Braves are more likely to pursue an impact starting pitcher than a hitter this summer, according to rival teams. GM Frank Wren maintains that Kris Medlen is “probably better than any arm who will be available.” Medlen could join the rotation midseason, according to Wren.
- Rival teams say the Orioles would like to upgrade at first base and/or third base.
- Stark hears that Angels manager Mike Scioscia doesn’t have to worry about his job security. The skipper is under contract through 2018.
Crazy to think about firing Mike Scioscia.
What? How is Harper not the answer? They mean they think he’s a corner OF right?
Right. Have you seen him play CF? He doesn’t have a lot of errors because of his insane athletic ability, but he has no idea what he’s doing (right now at least)
From what I’ve seen, he totally looks like a 19 year old out there. He’ll be alright.
he’s a BUST
Span stays unless it’s a can’t miss 1-3 starter. Contract is way too friendly
I would hope so, but who would do it?
The best case scenario I can see is something similar to what Atlanta sent Houston for Michael Bourn last year. Denard is signed longer (and more team friendlier) than Bourn is/was, but they are similar players as far as ability/position/age.
That’s what I was thinking too. I’d like to think it would take a solid starting pitching prospect who is close to MLB ready. However, this is the Twins we’re talking about.
I wonder if the Twins would trade Ben Revere instead of Span. Revere’s value is much lower than Span’s, but it would make sense. Both are true center fielders and only one can play there. Span is only 28 years old and is signed through 2015 (including an option) for 4.75, 6.5 and 9 million the next 3 years.
That would be crazy for Ryan and the Rangers to do. He is in the bottom ten of catchers right now. He can not hit lefties, with a dismal .184 ba,and he barely is hitting over .200 in Arlington. He hasnt driven in a run since May 13th, and last homered april 25th… If he doesnt start hitting soon, he wont be worth anything.
Lombardozzi and Alex Mayer for Span