A.J. Burnett Rumors

Braves Preparing Five-Year Offer For Burnett

2:07pm: Dave O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution believes the Braves will probably guarantee a fifth year to Burnett, at a salary of $15-16MM per. 9:56am: Will the Braves be the team to commit five years to A.J. Burnett? According to Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News, they're preparing such an offer. Feinsand wonders if Burnett will jump at this offer without waiting to see what C.C. Sabathia does. SI.com's Jon Heyman seems to agree with Feinsand's report. He learned from Braves GM Frank Wren that the Braves are in on Burnett but not Jake Peavy, and heard talk...   Continue Reading

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Javier Vazquez Trade Reactions

The word yesterday evening was that the Braves acquired starter Javier Vazquez and lefty reliever Boone Logan for Tyler Flowers, Brent Lillibridge, Jon Gilmore, and Santos Rodriguez (MLB.com's Mark Bowman confirms the prospects). Look for the trade to become official tommorrow. Reactions to the deal: South Side Sox expects a couple of accompanying moves: the trade of Jermaine Dye for a young starter and the signing of an affordable free agent outfielder. They don't see the White Sox benefitting from the Vazquez trade in 2009, but at least Ozzie cleared out his doghouse. Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune says...   Continue Reading

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Braves Rumors: Hampton, Lowe, Burnett

Dave O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution has the latest on the Braves in a new blog post. The Braves never intended Mike Hampton to be one of the two front-rotation starters they acquire this winter, so his rejection of their offer doesn't affect their plans much. O'Brien notes that he's heard no indications that the Braves are actively pursuing Derek Lowe. A.J. Burnett seems to be their top target, and it wouldn't be surprising to see the Jake Peavy talks revived at the Winter Meetings. The Braves made trade inquiries on Roy Oswalt and Matt Cain and "haven't received favorable...   Continue Reading

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Jays Offer Arb To Burnett, Not Zaun

According to the AP, the Blue Jays offered arbitration to A.J. Burnett and declined to offer it to Gregg Zaun. No big surprise here. Burnett's a Type A free agent, so he'll cost a draft pick to sign.   Continue Reading

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Perrotto's Latest: Teixeira, Burnett, Wilson

John Perrotto of Baseball Prospectus has his Sunday article up. Let's go through it: The Angels may be willing to match the Yankees $140MM offer to CC Sabathia. They won't offer 10 years to Mark Teixeira. If they can't land Teixeira, they will consider Pat Burrell for first base. A.J. Burnett is looking at the Blue Jays, Red Sox, Yankees, Braves, Orioles, and Phillies. The Twins want a left-side infielder for Delmon Young, so they can open a spot for Denard Span in the starting lineup. The Tigers are pursuing Jack Wilson from the Pirates and Matt Treanor from the...   Continue Reading

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Baseball Blogs Weigh In: Varitek, Burnett, Teixeira

Let's take a look at what is being written around the Blogosphere... River Ave. Blues debates Ben Sheets versus A.J. Burnett and wonders if Sheets will be the better bargain in the end. Detroit Tiger Thoughts shows that Jason Varitek is not a good fit with the Tigers, even in a platoon situation. Fire Brand of the American League lays down several reasons why the Red Sox should avoid signing Teixeira. Where have you gone, Andy Van Slyke? sees no downside to the Pirates' signing of Indian imports Dinesh Patel and Rinku Singh. The 'Burgh Blues feels Eric Hinske is...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Blue Jays, Dodgers, Dunn

Happy Thanksgiving! Here are some links to snack on before the big meal. Blue Jays interim CEO Paul Beeston believes they have a chance to re-sign A.J. Burnett, but may choose to save the money earmarked for him if he signs elsewhere. ESPN's Jayson Stark assesses the Tigers. Catching seems to be their top priority this winter, though they need a shortstop and closer too. There is a growing sentiment that the Blue Jays will have less to spend this winter than originally anticipated. Bill Plaschke attempts to get clarification from Jamie McCourt on her recent quotes. Curt Schilling remembers...   Continue Reading

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A.J. Burnett Rumors: Wednesday

MLB.com's Mark Bowman chatted with A.J. Burnett's agent, Darek Braunecker. Braunecker is confident he can get a five-year deal for Burnett, though a fifth year is not necessarily a requirement. A four-year deal is possible if the average annual value is significantly higher. My feeling: why pay Burnett $72MM over four years if you could get that fifth year for a marginal $8MM? The Braves and Burnett still have mutual interest, and Braunecker characterized talks as positive. Bowman also talked to Chipper Jones, who had kind words for Burnett. Bowman believes Jones will feel more comfortable about finishing his career...   Continue Reading

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C.C. Sabathia Rumors: Wednesday

6:19pm: It sounds like Sabathia's agent Greg Genske is shutting things down for the weekend. He didn't reveal anything new to Brewers GM Doug Melvin. Adam McCalvy also notes that the Brewers will offer Sabathia arbitration, a procedural move. 12:49pm: SI.com's Jon Heyman talked to Yankees people who believe the Angels leaked interest in Sabathia to reduce Tex's demands. Those people also believe the Halos will limit their offer to the $100-120MM range. Other factors: Tex makes more sense for the Angels, Arte Moreno loves him, and signing Sabathia could reduce the chances of extending John Lackey. Nonetheless, Heyman agrees...   Continue Reading

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No Agreement Yet For Moyer

12:01pm: David Murphy of the Philadelphia Daily News says everyone expects the Phils to re-sign Moyer. He says not to read into the Lowe/Burnett inquiries; the team has inquired on more than 25 free agents. MLB.com's Ken Mandel names six of them: Doug Brocail, Russ Springer, Raul Ibanez, Rocco Baldelli, Jerry Hairston Jr., and Nick Punto. 10:16am: According to Todd Zolecki of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Phillies are still talking to free agent pitcher Jamie Moyer but don't have an agreement yet. Moyer apparently wants a multiyear deal. The Phils recently contacted Derek Lowe and A.J. Burnett to hedge their...   Continue Reading

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Orioles Rumors: Burnett, Markakis, Japan

3:08pm: Roch Kubatko of MASN Online gives thoughts on the Orioles and Mark Teixeira and Burnett. Kubatko believes there's no chance the O's offer five years to Burnett, and even four would be a stretch. He'd have to be willing to take a discount to come to Baltimore. As for Tex, will he be willing to play for a team that may not be competitive in the first few years of his deal? 8:32am: Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun talked to A.J. Burnett's agent Darek Braunecker, who said his client has narrowed his list from twelve to about six...   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Dye, Burrell, Young

Here's a look at the latest from Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. Rosenthal says the Braves are interested in A.J. Burnett, but you already knew that. Rosenthal believes Trevor Hoffman to the Dodgers "makes sense." The Red Sox apparently have confidence they could trade Mike Lowell if need be, but rival execs believe he'd have to prove his health in spring first. Lowell has two years and $24MM on his deal. The White Sox want a young starter and additional players for right fielder Jermaine Dye. The Mets, Rays, and Phillies are "balking at such a price." Rosenthal learned that...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Halladay, Lopez, Glavine

Links for Monday... The Cardinals still don't have a deal with Trever Miller. Is a multiyear deal coming soon for Jamie Moyer? Ken Mandel's source says it's been delayed only because of scheduling conflicts. The D'Backs released infielder Jamie D'Antona, who is headed to Japan. J.P. Ricciardi says trading Roy Halladay hasn't even crossed his mind. Dan Graziano wrote last Wednesday that some continued to insist the Jays would explore trading their ace. River Ave. Blues considers Ben Sheets a better investment than A.J. Burnett for the Yankees. Jim Allen profiled the five Japanese players who plan to come over...   Continue Reading

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Yankees "What If": No A.J., CC, Lowe?

No new official information has been reported from either side--but that may be precisely why articles about the scenario where the Yankees fail to sign a big name free agent starting pitcher this offseason are starting to show up. First, Jordan Bastian at MLB.com reports that the Yankees may not make a contract offer to A.J. Burnett. Burnett, through his agent, appears to be insisting on a five-year deal. While the market may not provide one, Bastian says that the Yankees simply will not. In the CC Sabathia ring, separate postings at River Ave. Blues and Brew Crew Ball look...   Continue Reading

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A.J. Burnett Rumors: Saturday

According to Anthony McCarron of the New York Daily News, the Yankees won't offer A.J. Burnett a five-year contract. Ken Davidoff writes that Burnett's agent, Darek Brauneker, is confident that his client will sign a five-year deal somewhere. McCarron talked to a source who said that "the Yankees are not ready to go five years." The source also said that the Red Sox are more interested in Mark Teixeira and Derek Lowe than Burnett. The Blue Jays are still talking with Burnett, but they haven't yet offered him a deal.   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Furcal, Burnett, Halladay

Ken Rosenthal has a new column up this evening. The A's and Giants remain the top suitors for Rafael Furcal, and the team that's willing to give him four guaranteed years may win the bidding. The Dodgers, Braves, and Cubs are also in the mix. Rosenthal talked to a source with knowledge of the Blue Jays' thinking, and that person can't imagine them giving A.J. Burnett five years. Rosenthal says to forget the idea of a Roy Halladay trade, unless they attempt and fail to sign him to an extension. And if Burnett is signed, a Halladay extension would be...   Continue Reading

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Heyman's Latest: Lowe, Teixeira, Guillen

SI.com's Jon Heyman recently published several new blog posts. Free agent outfielder Garret Anderson has a new agent: Scott Boras. Click here for our full list of Boras clients. Rangers starters Vicente Padilla and Kevin Millwood are drawing interest from the Braves, Dodgers, and Mets. Padilla is owed $12MM in 2009 with a 2010 option for the same ($1.75MM buyout). Millwood gets $23MM over the next two seasons and has a limited no-trade clause. Heyman says rather than battle for A.J. Burnett, the Red Sox and Yankees may duke it out for Derek Lowe. Other suitors for Lowe: the Mets,...   Continue Reading

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A.J. Burnett Rumors: Friday

4:14pm: Tony Massarotti of the Boston Globe says that while the Red Sox have reviewed Burnett's medical records, they're still in the early stages of negotiations. 2:32pm: Robert MacLeod of The Globe and Mail has more from Ricciardi on the five-year idea: "I'm not going to commit to a five-year deal. There's some things we could do to maybe make it a five-year deal but that would have to be based on a lot of different things." 9:22am: The Blue Jays haven't made an offer yet to free agent starter A.J. Burnett, and GM J.P. Ricciardi doesn't expect to win...   Continue Reading

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Baseball Blogs Weigh In: Pedro, Sabathia, Peavy

A look at what is being written about the hot stove in the Blogosphere... Fire Brand of the American League looks at the ramifications of the Coco Crisp trade and what could happen if the Red Sox acquire Mark Teixeira and are unable to move Mike Lowell. Baseball Opinion says the Crisp deal leaves the Royals with a crowded outfield and a depleted bullpen and wonders if Mark Teahen or David DeJesus will be the next to go. Nationals Pride sees the Scott Olsen and Josh Willingham trade as a good start towards building a team with a core of...   Continue Reading

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Orioles Targeting Izturis

According to Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun, the Orioles have contacted shortstop Cesar Izturis' agent to express interest. Zrebiec believes the 28 year-old defensive whiz tops their list. Izturis earned $3.05MM this year. The Orioles have also had trade discussions for Khalil Greene and Bobby Crosby. The Padres requested Garrett Olson for Greene, and the Orioles passed. Zrebiec says the Orioles are not interested in Rafael Furcal, Orlando Cabrera, or Edgar Renteria. If they spend big on a free agent, it'll be A.J. Burnett or Mark Teixeira. However, Furcal's agent Paul Kinzer said yesterday that the O's are one...   Continue Reading

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Braves Rumors: Hampton, Ludwick, Burnett

Braves GM Frank Wren chatted with fans on MLB.com today and David O'Brien has some new Braves rumors as well. Wren told O'Brien that the Braves have had "a number of conversations" with Mike Hampton about keeping him in Atlanta. In his MLB.com chat, Wren said he thinks Hampton is still a "very good pitcher." O'Brien says that talks with the Cardinals about Ryan Ludwick "aren't dead." Wren doesn't comment when asked about Ludwick in the chat, but that is in itself something of a statement. O'Brien says that if Atlanta can't trade for Ludwick, Raul Ibanez would be an...   Continue Reading

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Heyman's Latest: Burnett, Lowe, Hudson, Tex

SI.com's Jon Heyman has several new blog posts up. Let's take a look. The Yankees planned offers in the four-year, $60MM range for A.J. Burnett and Derek Lowe, but that's not sufficient for either pitcher. Burnett wants five years, and Lowe presumably at least $16MM per year and perhaps five as well. The Indians, Mets, and Yankees are in on Orlando Hudson, who wants a five-year, $50MM deal. The Dodgers are another possibility. The New York teams would have to do some shuffling to make room for Hudson. Paul Hoynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported the Indians' interest yesterday...   Continue Reading

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Brown on Sabathia, Teixeira, Lowe, Peavy

In his latest article, Tim Brown at Yahoo! Sports considers a possibility that others have discussed: maybe C.C. Sabathia doesn't want to play for the New York Yankees. He certainly has options--Brown's list includes the Dodgers, Angels, White Sox, Red Sox, Mariners, Tigers, and of course, the Brewers. Not signing C.C. would increase the likelihood that the Yankees make a serious offer to Mark Teixeira. Nick Swisher seems to have the starting job at first base for now, but failing to land Sabathia might shift the Yankees' attention to all three of Teixeira, A.J. Burnett and Derek Lowe, says Brown....   Continue Reading

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Latest On A.J. Burnett

WEDNESDAY: SI.com's Jon Heyman says Burnett is only considering five-year offers; the Yankees haven't committed to that yet. TUESDAY: Kat O'Brien of Newsday has the latest on free agent starter A.J. Burnett. She says the Red Sox have "significantly increased their involvement" on Burnett recently. They'll butt heads with the Yankees, who have yet to make a formal offer. O'Brien shoots down George King's recent suggestion of "perhaps" a five-year, $80MM offer from New York. The initial offer will be four years at more than $13.5MM per. There's talk that Ryan Dempster's four-year, $52MM deal will raise the stakes for...   Continue Reading

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Crisp-Ramirez Trade Reactions

The Red Sox traded center fielder Coco Crisp to the Royals for reliever Ramon Ramirez today; tip of the cap to Brian McRae for the scoop. Let's round up the reactions and consequences. MLB.com's Dick Kaegel says Royals GM Dayton Moore will now attempt to rebuild his bullpen, perhaps by trading an outfielder or first baseman. Kaegel says "word from Chicago downplays the Cubs' reputed interest" in Mark Teahen. MLB.com's Ian Browne says Red Sox GM Theo Epstein will bring in a fourth outfielder to replace Crisp. Browne suggests free agents Gabe Kapler or Rocco Baldelli. Ken Davidoff says the...   Continue Reading

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Orioles Eyeing Burnett?

Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun talked to Orioles president Andy MacPhail, who said he's had one conversation with A.J. Burnett's agent (Darek Braunecker) since the free agent period opened. It's not known whether the Orioles made an offer. Burnett may not have anything on the table yet - Ken Rosenthal shot down the report of Toronto making a four-year, $54MM proposal. Burnett will apparently be pursued by all AL East teams aside from the Rays. ESPN's Buster Olney believes a guaranteed fifth year may land Burnett.   Continue Reading

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Blue Jays To Sit Out Free Agent Market?

Beyond attempting to re-sign starter A.J. Burnett, Blue Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi does not intend to dabble in free agency this year. He told MLB.com's Jordan Bastian he'd probably stay in-house. Ricciardi shot down rumors of interest in Jason Giambi, Milton Bradley, and Rafael Furcal. Drunk Jays Fans doesn't buy the talk, though. Trades are Ricciardi's ideal route, though Richard Griffin notes J.P. has rarely dealt prospects for Major Leaguers. Griffin believes big league trade chips may include B.J. Ryan, John McDonald, and Lyle Overbay. Jason Frasor could be another.   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Burnett, Lowe, Peavy

Here's a look at the latest from Ken Rosenthal. Rosenthal says reports of the Blue Jays' four-year, $54MM offer to A.J. Burnett are inaccurate - they've yet to make a proposal. He's on board with Kat O'Brien's info from yesterday, noting Boston's interest. Scott Boras is apparently telling teams he wants "a Zito-type contract" for righty Derek Lowe. Lowe is 35, while Zito was 28. Is Boras implying that he wants $18MM a year? Obviously Lowe will not find a seven-year offer. ESPN's Buster Olney says Boras wants five years for Lowe. The Padres told the Yankees a Jake Peavy...   Continue Reading

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Yankees Rumors: Abreu, Burnett, Teixeira

George King of the New York Post and Kat O'Brien of Newsday have the latest on the Yankees, who are in hot pursuit of free agent starting pitching. The Yankees will offer arbitration to Bobby Abreu, according to Jon Heyman. No surprise there. King says the Yankees are preparing an offer for A.J. Burnett, "perhaps a five-year deal worth about $80 million." Burnett's agent says they're just discussing parameters. It would be a strong offer, dwarfing the Blue Jays' four years, $54MM. ESPN's Buster Olney believes a fifth guaranteed year will ultimately result in the winning bid for Burnett. The...   Continue Reading

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Olney On Braves, Peavy, Burnett

Buster Olney writes that the Braves are still the best fit for Jake Peavy, even if they are apparently moving on for the time being. Olney argues that "both sides need this trade." The Braves will not bid on C.C. Sabathia, and Olney thinks they'll have a tough time signing A.J. Burnett. If the Braves can't sign Burnett, Olney suggests Jon Garland, Oliver Perez and Ryan Dempster as alternatives. The Braves have already had preliminary discussions with Burnett's agent, Darek Brauneker.   Continue Reading

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Steinbrenner Ready To Offer Burnett, Lowe Contracts

Hank Steinbrenner made a bold statement about the Yankees' free agent targets, A.J. Burnett and Derek Lowe. "We're prepared to make offers to Burnett and Lowe," Steinbrenner said. "I'm starting to become very optimistic. I think it’s going to be mutually beneficial to us and for these particular players that we’re after for them to join the Yankees.” Steinbrenner also confirmed that the Yankees offered C.C. Sabathia a contract.   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Peavy, Teixeira, Burnett

Ken Rosenthal's got an interesting new column up. Now that talks with the Braves have ended for the time being, Padres GM Kevin Towers is talking with the Yankees about Jake Peavy. The Yankees have had "numerous discussions" with the Padres, even though they just offered C.C. Sabathia a contract and are still considering A.J. Burnett and Derek Lowe. Peavy's agent Barry Axelrod said that "the Angels probably would be more appealing" geographically, but "from other perspectives, they might be less appealing" than other teams Rosenthal talked with an agent who said that the Angels could wait a week or...   Continue Reading

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Yanks Make Offer To Sabathia

5:13pm: Anthony McCarron of the New York Daily News says the offer is for six years and $140MM. 4:37pm: Ed Price of the Newark Star-Ledger says the Yankees made their initial offer to Sabathia, but they expect his agents to look around a bit. 1:14pm: SI.com's Jon Heyman says the Yankees will also make offers to A.J. Burnett and Derek Lowe within the next day or two. FRIDAY, 10:27am: ESPN's Buster Olney says this initial Yankees offer will be in the $140-142MM range. By the way, the Giants have already touched base with Sabathia's agents. THURSDAY: According to Joel Sherman...   Continue Reading

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Burnett, Braves Have Mutual Interest

According to MLB.com's Mark Bowman, the Braves and A.J. Burnett have mutual interest. Preliminary talks have taken place. Burnett's agent, Darek Braunecker, downplayed the idea that Burnett strongly desires to play closer to home. The Braves also like Derek Lowe and Ryan Dempster. They could try to sign two of the three if a Jake Peavy deal cannot be hammered out. Burnett has a four-year, $54MM offer from the Blue Jays to shop around. The Yankees should make an offer soon.   Continue Reading

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Jays' Plans Start With Burnett

According to Richard Griffin of the Toronto Star, the Blue Jays have a four-year, $54MM offer ready for A.J. Burnett. They'll apparently leave that proposal out there, let Burnett shop it around, and wait until the situation is resolved before moving on to other free agent pitchers. Surely Burnett can top $13.5MM a year. Griffin says Ryan Dempster (Canadian!) and Derek Lowe could be targets if Burnett signs elsewhere, assuming they are still on the market. Jeff Blair wrote yesterday that Brad Penny is also on the radar.   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Pettitte, Zaun, Blanco

Links for Tuesday... Scott Bordow feels the D'Backs and Randy Johnson should meet at $5MM, which still seems light. David Murphy explains why the Phillies make more sense than the Mariners for Jamie Moyer, geographically. David Ortiz would like the Red Sox to add a 30 home run bat. Richard Justice wants the Astros to sign both Randy Wolf and Andy Pettitte. He says the Cubs and Cardinals will be talking to Pettitte even though his heart is with the Yankees. El Lefty Malo recommends the Giants sign Derek Lowe. The Giants are at least considering the big-ticket free agents....   Continue Reading

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Angels Hold Off On Teixeira Bid

Mike DiGiovanna of the L.A. Times describes the Angels' strategy regarding free agent first baseman Mark Teixeira. He says that since Tex will test the open market regardless, the Halos will not make an offer within their exclusive negotiation period. So much for resolving the situation quickly. The Angels do not want Scott Boras shopping around their offer to the Yankees, Red Sox, Orioles, and Nationals and driving up the price. Just a guess, maybe the Nats consider Josh Willingham their cleanup hitter acquisition and will back out of the Teixeira derby. DiGiovanna adds that the Angels "plan a serious...   Continue Reading

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Perrotto's Latest: Free Agent Predictions

John Perrotto has his Every Given Sunday column up over at Baseball Prospectus. Perrotto offers a list of some educated guesses as to where some of the top free agents in baseball will land, with some surprises here and there. Let's take a look: Perrotto lists the Yankees loading up on starting pitching, landing C.C. Sabathia and Derek Lowe, while the Dodgers land Manny Ramirez after doubling their initial offer to four years, $100MM. Perrotto says the Nationals will land Mark Teixeira, as they could be prepared to offer Teixeira - a Maryland native - ten years, $200MM. Turning down...   Continue Reading

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Red Sox Rumors: Crisp, Lugo, Burnett, Baldelli

Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe has the latest on the Red Sox. GM Theo Epstein says there's one deal he might be able to do before the winter meetings, possibly involving Coco Crisp or Julio Lugo. The free agent market for center fielders and shortstops is weak this year. Cafardo doesn't believe the Sox are in on C.C. Sabathia or A.J. Burnett, and he says they're unsure about Derek Lowe. However, Buster Olney says "there is an expectation within other quarters of the AL East that the Red Sox will get in on the Burnett bidding." Cafardo does see...   Continue Reading

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Yankees Rumors: Cameron, Melky, Pettitte, Lowe

5:06pm: More on the Cameron situation: Ken Davidoff says Cabrera and Ian Kennedy have been discussed. However, the Brewers will probably wait to see if they can sign Sabathia, since he's good friends with Cameron. 10:26am: The latest Yankees hot stove buzz... According to Joel Sherman and George King of the New York Post, the Yankees inquired with the Brewers on Mike Cameron. The Yanks would be willing to send Melky Cabrera and pitching to Milwaukee. The Yankees are also talking to other teams about Wilson Betemit. The Yankees are only willing to do a one-year deal for Andy Pettitte,...   Continue Reading

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Latest Red Sox Rumors

A few notes on the Red Sox... From Nick Cafardo of The Boston Globe Scott Boras met with Theo Epstein about Jason Varitek. Boras is still seeking a deal similar to the one signed by Jorge Posada (four years/$52.4MM). Epstein continues to look at other catchers including Jarrod Saltalamacchia or Taylor Teagarden. Cafardo also notes that the Red Sox could go after a veteran through the trade market like Bengie Molina. Other teams have expressed interest in both Coco Crisp and Julio Lugo, but noted that Lugo would not be part of a deal to the White Sox. Cafardo says...   Continue Reading

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Yankees Rumors: Sabathia, Marte, Mussina

11:09pm: Brian Cashman sums up the Yankees' plan: "We're going to show a lot of love." 12:15pm: It's about time we check in with Yankees links. The Yankees will make their record-breaking pitch to C.C. Sabathia. If it fails, they'll move on to A.J. Burnett, Derek Lowe, and Oliver Perez. Joel Sherman says the Yankees could get involved on Manny Ramirez, but only if they fail to sign Mark Teixeira and manage to trade Hideki Matsui. Sherman says the Yanks are in on the catching market just to be safe, engaging the Rangers about Gerald Laird and Jarrod Saltalamacchia. They'll...   Continue Reading

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Cubs Rumors: Dempster, Peavy, Sabathia, Hill

6:05pm: According to Ken Rosenthal, the Cubs are willing to offer Dempster a four-year contract. This helps their chances, though Dempster's agent said today "there's very little possibility he's going to sign soon with the Cubs." 9:36am: Chris De Luca of the Chicago Sun-Times has fresh Cubs rumors this morning. De Luca's sources describe the Cubs' interest in Jake Peavy as "limited." Instead, the Cubs have "deep interest" in C.C. Sabathia. De Luca also wonders if the Cubs will entertain A.J. Burnett. Dave van Dyck suggested Derek Lowe could fit. The Cubs' payroll room will depend on free agents Ryan...   Continue Reading

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A.J. Burnett Rumors: Wednesday

Let's talk about free agent starter A.J. Burnett, who expects to receive multiple five-year offers (according to Keith Law). Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe says the Red Sox will explore signing Burnett, but aren't likely to exceed three years. The Blue Jays never made a formal offer to Burnett, but J.P. Ricciardi seems optimistic about their chances.   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Tex, Furcal, Johnson, Lofton

Here's a look at the latest from Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. If they are to sign Mark Teixeira, the Angels would like to do it quickly. However, it's Scott Boras' custom to let the market develop until late December or so. It's possible the Angels change gears on November 14th. There are other big names to pursue, though none fit as perfectly as Tex. Rosenthal's worst case scenario for the Yankees: C.C. Sabathia goes to a West Coast team while A.J. Burnett re-signs with Toronto. The Jays truly are in the mix for Burnett. ESPN's Keith Law says Burnett...   Continue Reading

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Heyman's Latest: Holliday, Bradley, Hudson

SI.com's Jon Heyman reports from the GM meetings... Matt Holliday showed up at the GM meetings to talk to Scott Boras, sparking trade speculation by reporters. The Rangers failed to reach an agreement with Milton Bradley, and he'll seek a four-year deal worth more than $10MM per. Good luck with that. Heyman says the Nationals are interested in Mark Teixeira and Matt Holliday, which MLB.com's Bill Ladson first reported yesterday. It does not seem that the Nats have the goods to acquire Holliday. Heyman adds A.J. Burnett as a possibility, though Ken Rosenthal said to scratch them from the running...   Continue Reading

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A.J. Burnett Opts Out

4:28pm: According to Ken Rosenthal, Burnett has officially opted out of the remaining two years and $24MM on his deal. The Blue Jays remain in the mix. If he leaves, they'll at least end up with two draft picks. 10:22am: What's the deal with A.J. Burnett? We were supposed to have an opt-out decision yesterday before the GM meetings began. Ken Davidoff talked to Burnett's agent, Darek Braunecker. Apparently Braunecker will meet with the Jays today to see if they'll make a "knock your socks off" offer to keep Burnett off the market. Cathal Kelly of the Toronto Star says...   Continue Reading

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Heyman's Latest: Sabathia, Burnett, Matsui

Here's a look at the latest column from SI.com's Jon Heyman. C.C. Sabathia is the Yankees' top offseason target, and they'll make him an offer beyond Johan Santana's $137.5MM. Heyman also sees the Yanks pursuing A.J. Burnett, Derek Lowe, and Oliver Perez (with Ben Sheets a less likely target). Heyman's sources believe the Yanks could even attempt to sign three free agent starters. The Yankees aren't counting on Mike Mussina, and may wait on him before considering Andy Pettitte. Contradictory note from Heyman: the White Sox have no plans to try to keep Joe Crede or Juan Uribe, but might...   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Fielder, Beimel, Eckstein

Ken Rosenthal is on the scene at the GM meetings, and as usual has all kinds of new info. The Brewers are unlikely to trade Prince Fielder, and reluctant to trade J.J. Hardy or Alcides Escobar. It'd be smart to retain those three players. Rosenthal still likes the Braves as the favorite for Jake Peavy, but wonders if the Cubs or another team could incorporate a third team to get it done. The Cubs will need to spend much of their available money on pitching, which may leave little payroll room for an outfielder like Bobby Abreu. They could backload...   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Peavy, Burnett, Sabathia

Let's take a look at the latest column from Ken Rosenthal at FOX Sports. Don't look for a Jake Peavy trade this week at the GM meetings, as the Padres haven't found a match with Peavy's five preferred teams. A.J. Burnett's agent should announce his client's decision to opt out today. Rosenthal notes Burnett's preference to sign near his Maryland home, with the Yankees and Red Sox as the most realistic possibilities. Rosenthal believes the Brewers offered C.C. Sabathia $100MM over five years (rather than four). The Brewers can say they tried, but no one expects Sabathia to settle so...   Continue Reading

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Burnett Decision Due Monday Before GM Meetings

ESPN's Jerry Crasnick talked to A.J. Burnett's agent Darek Braunecker, who says his client will make his opt-out decision prior to the start of Monday's GM meetings. We all know Burnett is opting out, of course. Crasnick believes Burnett and Derek Lowe will seek salaries of at least $16MM per year. He names the Yankees, Mets, Rangers, Red Sox, Orioles and Nationals as potential suitors for Burnett. The Blue Jays will remain in the mix as well.   Continue Reading

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Orioles May Explore Free Agent Market

Steve Melewski of MASN Online recently spoke to Orioles president Andy MacPhail about the possibility of spending money in free agency. MacPhail is open to a possible big dollar contract, but he leans toward youth: Whatever the player and the investment, they have to fit into the strategy of what it is we are trying to achieve as an organization. The likelihood of us signing someone who is 35 is not great. If they are younger and can be helpful to us and their career will be longer with us that just a short-term fix, that's a whole different story....   Continue Reading

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Burnett Would Consider Yankees

George King of the New York Post talked to A.J. Burnett's agent Darek Braunecker, who said Burnett will "see if the Yankees are interested" if he chooses to opt out of his deal. It always makes sense to keep the Yankees involved. When we last checked in on the Burnett situation Friday, we were confused by J.P. Ricciardi's characterization of the talks. Jeff Blair believes the Blue Jays are willing to do a three-year, $48MM contract. Talking to Murray Chass recently, Braunecker downplayed his client's injury history.   Continue Reading

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Perrotto's Latest: Red Sox, Mets, Burnett, Blalock

John Perrotto over at Baseball Prospectus has his weekly column up... let's take a look at what he has to say: Couple of notes about the Red Sox: Perrotto expects Theo Epstein to re-sign Jason Varitek to a two-year deal in the $16MM range. This seems like drastically overpaying for what Varitek has become, in my opinion, but as Perrotto points out, there's very little on the free agent market. Epstein will then look to trade for a young catcher who can become the starter in 2010 or 2011. Additionally, he'll try to move Mike Lowell to open up a...   Continue Reading

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Blue Jays Rumors: Burnett, Manny, Ryan

10:07pm: Dave O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution heard the Blue Jays will make Burnett a "take it or leave it" offer of four years, $54MM ($13.5MM per year). Burnett's agent hasn't heard that, and Ricciardi says there's no offer on the table currently. Jeff Blair of the Globe and Mail says the Jays have indicated privately they'll do a three-year, $48MM deal ($16MM per year). On the open market, Burnett can probably get four or five years at a higher salary. 10:06am: A little more on Ricciardi's talks with Burnett's agent. Here, Ricciardi says talks have been "very productive." But...   Continue Reading

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Ricciardi On Burnett, Manny, Shortstop

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports talked to Toronto GM J.P. Ricciardi today. Re-signing A.J. Burnett is one of Ricciari's primary goals, but Rosenthal says J.P. won't spend $15-18MM on another free agent starter if Burnett leaves. The Jays also want to add a hitter. Ricciardi's take on Manny Ramirez: "Manny is not priority No. 1. I can't even say he's priority No. 2. It would really be a long shot for us to bring him to Toronto. He's on our radar, but maybe not on our radar like some people will report. I don't see us getting involved in unbelievable,...   Continue Reading

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Peavy Rumors: Wednesday

Another day, another batch of Jake Peavy links. Joel Sherman of the New York Post talked to several executives. They expect Peavy will be traded to the Braves for Tommy Hanson, Jordan Schafer, and one of Kelly Johnson/Yunel Escobar. This scenario becomes more plausible to me if Johnson/Escobar is replaced with a lesser player. But, maybe I am misguided. Buster Olney also talked to execs who envision a Hanson/Schafer/Johnson package. Tom Krasovic of the San Diego Union-Tribune checked with Towers and Peavy's agent Barry Axelrod, and learned that Peavy has a clean bill of health. Krasovic also discusses Peavy's violent...   Continue Reading

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Perrotto's Latest: Peavy, Unit, Joba

John Perrotto has his Every Given Sunday column up over at Baseball Prospectus. Here's some highlights from his "Rumors and Rumblings section" this week: Perrotto expects a Jake Peavy deal to be done before the Winter Meetings, stating that the Braves, Yankees, and Dodgers seem to be the leaders in the race right now. He notes that the Yankees will be willing to include Phil Hughes, while the Braves are willing to move Yunel Escobar. I personally like the Escobar idea for San Diego, as it would allow them to make Atlanta take on Khalil Greene's salary. A package around...   Continue Reading

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