Joe Crede Rumors

Crasnick's Free Agent Bargains

ESPN's Jerry Crasnick lists nine possible free agent bargains in his column today. A few notes: Randy Johnson is looking for a one-year deal, and his agent says the list of interested clubs is approaching double figures. The Dodgers may make sense, though Johnson is on the backburner for them. Crasnick speculates that Philadelphia could be a nice fit for Felipe Lopez. Scott Boras seemingly wants a multiyear deal for Joe Crede, as he's using the Magglio Ordonez contract as a model. Maybe his new team would have the ability to opt out after the season if Crede hits the...   Continue Reading

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Twins Making Progress With Blake

Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune says the Twins have yet to make a formal offer to Casey Blake, but they're making progress in discussions of the term and salary range. Blake's agent says eight clubs are interested but only four have discussed a contract. Blake is looking for a three-year deal, and doesn't have any geographic leanings. The Indians, Dodgers, and Rangers are known to be in the mix. T.R. Sullivan believes Blake and Joe Crede are out of the Rangers' price range, however.   Continue Reading

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Stark's Latest: Abreu, Arroyo, Hudson

ESPN's Jayson Stark is back with a look at needs and plans for all 30 teams. I highly recommend you read the article, but here are a few highlights. He's also got a fresh blog post here. The Phillies are eyeing Doug Brocail and Russ Springer. The Mets like Bobby Abreu, but not his three year, $45MM asking price. The Reds are quietly listening on Bronson Arroyo, and the Rangers may be interested. Contrary to previous reports, Stark believes the Mets' first order of business is getting a starting pitcher. Here's a new one - the Marlins are interested in...   Continue Reading

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Indians Rumors: Shoppach, Roberts, Street

Paul Hoynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer discusses the Indians' offseason needs. With Victor Martinez, Kelly Shoppach, Carlos Santana, and others, the Indians have a surplus of catching (and mad guitar skills). The Red Sox, Marlins, Reds, and Tigers are known to be in the market, so maybe the Indians can deal a catcher to fill another need. Those other needs: an infielder, a late inning reliever, and a starter. Hoynes believes the Indians will fall short of meeting the demands of free agents Francisco Rodriguez, Brian Fuentes, and Rafael Furcal. Hoynes implies the asking price for one year of...   Continue Reading

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Odds And Ends: White Sox, Royals, Jays, Crede, Hosmer

A few notes from the MLBiverse... Ken Williams says the White Sox are in a position where they could either add more young players to develop or add some veteran pieces to the group. Williams says whichever road they choose, the team is "in a pretty good position." Joe Posnanski, on his blog, takes a look at some recent rumors surrounding the Royals. He feels that is the rumors have any truth to them, they are scary, noting that it would lead to an OBP-deprived lineup. Posnanski feels Dayton Moore is a "smart baseball man" and won't make the moves...   Continue Reading

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Rangers Rumors: Blalock, Blake, Catchers

Next up we'll dig into the latest Rangers rumors, courtesy of Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News. The Rangers are expected to pick up their $6.2MM option on Hank Blalock today. It doesn't seem that Blalock will spend much time at third base if he's with the Rangers in 2009. Instead, he'd play first and DH. Of course, a trade is possible. The Rangers may look at outside options for third base, and they've been in touch with Casey Blake's agent. The Rangers have an eye on defense, which might rule out Garrett Atkins. Grant finds Joe Crede questionable,...   Continue Reading

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Brown's Latest: Teixeira, Crede, Friedman

Yahoo's Tim Brown filed a column late last night; let's take a look. Scott Boras doesn't know of any kind of contingency where the Dodgers would have to unload Andruw Jones' contract before signing Manny Ramirez. The Angels have not yet made an offer to Mark Teixeira, but they'll deal with that situation before moving on to other needs. Boras is suggesting Teixeira pays for himself. Boras compared Joe Crede to Magglio Ordonez. I think he is implying that he may seek big money for Crede but allow a team to opt out after a year if he hits the...   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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Odds and Ends: Myers, Crede, Giants

Links for Wednesday... The Brewers snagged infielder Casey McGehee off waivers from the Cubs. The Crew also designated Joe Dillon for assignment. The Reds signed 16 year-old lefty Ismael Guillon out of Venezuela. MLB.com's Marty Noble discusses the Mets and impending free agents Oliver Perez and Pedro Martinez. The Mets will entertain re-signing Perez at their price, but they'll let Pedro leave. Any guesses on where he pitches next year? Joe Pawlikowski at River Ave. Blues would like the Yankees to sign free agent outfielder Juan Rivera. Brian Cashman traded Rivera, Randy Choate, and Nick Johnson to the Expos for...   Continue Reading

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White Sox Offseason Possibilities

I did a White Sox Offseason Outlook earlier this month, rattling off available speedy players and also suggesting a Bobby Jenks trade be explored. Today, Chicago Tribune beat writer Mark Gonzales offers his take on the Sox. Gonzales sees Juan Uribe and Toby Hall as two players the White Sox hope to re-sign, with Hall at a lower salary than his $2.25MM option. Orlando Cabrera, Ken Griffey Jr., and Joe Crede will be gone. Cabrera is good for two draft picks if the Sox offer arbitration and he signs elsewhere. Gonzales wonders if a Paul Konerko for Chone Figgins trade...   Continue Reading

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Perrotto's Latest: GMs, Angels, Offseason Moves

John Perrotto at Baseball Prospectus has his Every Given Sunday column up, let's take a look at what he has to say: Perrotto believes that there's a good chance that the only GM change baseball will see this offseason may be the one we already know about, as Pat Gillick has already announced his retirement. Perrotto cites Assitant GM Ruben Amaro Jr. as a likely replacement. The most likely other change is in Seattle, and cites Dodgers' Assistant GM Kim Ng as a possible replacement, which would make her the first female general manager in the game's history. Perrotto believes...   Continue Reading

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Crede's White Sox Career Likely Over

According to Timothy Wolfmeyer of the Northwest Herald, the White Sox have cleaned out Joe Crede's locker (hat tip to South Side Sox). Wolfmeyer heard the Sox are fed up with Crede's Boras-influenced drawn-out rehab from another back injury. It seems the Sox will either use Josh Fields at third base next year or explore the market. Fields had a disappointing year at Triple A. Another option would be to re-sign Juan Uribe. Crede, 30, played very little in August and September due to his back injury. He had surgery in June of last year. The White Sox were unable...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Pokey, Lowe, Boss

Before you fire up the grill, check out these links. Dayn Perry has an enjoyable series at Baseball Prospectus called Mock Blockbuster. He proposes trades that would benefit both teams. His latest: Greg Maddux and Brian Giles for Jordan Schafer. Rays Index wonders whether Eric Hinske or Gabe Gross could be expendable once Willy Aybar returns. Joe Capozzi remembers Mike Piazza's five game stint as a Marlin. Pokey Reese sighting! Ned Colletti told struggling free-agent-to-be Derek Lowe the Dodgers aren't slamming the door on him coming back. The Red Sox signed an Australian teen named Boss Moanaroa. Athletics Nation chats...   Continue Reading

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White Sox Interested In Figgins?

THURSDAY: Angels GM Tony Reagins says he hasn't talked to Williams and has no interest in trading Figgins at this time. It may be true that Figgins is on Williams' wish list, but perhaps that's where it ended. WEDNESDAY: Joe Cowley lights up the rumor mill with some rumblings about the White Sox. His source says Kenny Williams is inquiring about leadoff hitters who can play second base, aside from the apparently overpriced Brian Roberts. Williams' main target may be Chone Figgins; he called Figgins "an interesting name." Figgins, 30, is hitting .306/.421/.355 in 145 plate appearances. He's a free...   Continue Reading

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Free Agent Stock Watch: Joe Crede

White Sox third baseman Joe Crede hopes to stay in Chicago beyond 2008. He's willing to have his agent, Scott Boras, negotiate in-season with the Sox - but only if the team approaches him. Crede will still listen to the Sox after the season, but he'll be on the open market after the exclusive negotiation period expires. Will the Sox offer Crede arbitration? The possibility that he accepts and they have him for '09 seems a risk worth taking. Crede would probably be a Type B free agent, and he'd likely decline arbitration in hopes of a multiyear deal. It's...   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Crede, Lofton, Millwood, Dunn

Ken Rosenthal has a new Full Count video up; let's discuss. Despite his .268/.330/.537 start, the White Sox would still entertain trading Joe Crede if it'd help the big league team. This is a change from their apparent springtime willingness to deal him for prospects. The most likely desire would be pitching, if the Sox can find a suitor. Jake Peavy put on his GM hat, suggesting the Padres sign Kenny Lofton. Rosenthal likes the idea, but notes that Kevin Towers will first turn to his farm system. I discussed some future trade candidates for San Diego in my latest...   Continue Reading

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Odds And Ends: Crede, Morris, Thomas

Just a couple of lingering posts in my browser this morning. It looks like Joe Crede is sticking by Scott Boras's side as he enters free agency after this season. I can't blame him. It's one thing for a superstar like A-Rod or an established veteran like Kenny Rogers to do what they want. But Crede certainly benefits from being repped by Boras. If Pirates GM Neal Huntington has plans to ditch Matt Morris, he's not tipping his hand. The 33-year-old righty has been downright horrible since coming over to Pittsburgh, a gaffe made by who else by Dave Littlefield....   Continue Reading

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Orlando Cabrera Contracts Talks Will Wait

According to Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune, the White Sox will not have further contract discussions with shortstop Orlando Cabrera until after the season. While an extension is still possible at that time, the chances seem to decrease as he reaches the cusp of free agency. Often when a guy is that close, he'll then say he wants to explore the market. Cabrera makes $9MM this year, with the Angels paying $1.5MM. It's a solid price for the Sox, but Cabrera has to be looking for three years and at least $20MM. He'll turn 34 in November, so it'd...   Continue Reading

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What's The Deal With Crede?

The rumors of Joe Crede's demise were greatly exaggerated. With many people writing him off after a poor spring, the White Sox third baseman jumped out to a .393/.419/.679 start in 28 ABs. That marks less than five percent of the season, but it's a start. South Side Sox is both supporting and doubting the early returns. Understandably, Crede is leaving the trade and contract details in the hands of his agent, Scott Boras. He's earning $5.1MM this year, his last before free agency. The hot corner free agent market is looking bleak next winter, and Crede might be the...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Papelbon, Darvish, Crisp

Let's round up some morning links. McCovey Chronicles feels that the Jose Castillo signing reduces the Joe Crede threat level for the Giants. Jonathan Papelbon wants to drive the market for closers upward. Keith Law discusses J.P. Ricciardi's decision to overrule scouting advisers and draft Ricky Romero over Troy Tulowitzki for the Blue Jays back in '05. If Yu Darvish is posted after this season, will it cost $75MM just to negotiate with him? From Buster Olney on Sunday: "Rival teams are not entirely sure if the Red Sox are devoted to the idea of trading Coco Crisp." Pedro Martinez...   Continue Reading

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Dodgers Scrambling for Infield Help

With veteran infielders Nomar Garciaparra and Jeff Kent both likely to miss opening day, the Dodgers are scrambling to find themselves some backups. Ken Rosenthal says that since the Astros are unlikely to trade Mark Loretta while Kaz Matsui is out, L.A. is considering Ron Belliard of the Nationals and Esteban German of the Royals. Another possibility, Morgan Ensberg, seems unlikely, as the Yankees added him to their 40-man roster yesterday. Joe Crede of the White Sox and Brandon Inge of the Tigers are both probably too expensive. This could impact roster decisions Los Angeles will make on Monday, when...   Continue Reading

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Market For Crede Dries Up

Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times says the market for Joe Crede has "dried up," as the Dodgers and Giants have little interest. Tough luck for Josh Fields, who seems headed back to Triple A. Ozzie Guillen's explanation for the lack of Crede interest: This game has gotten to be a bunch of political, a bunch of [expletive] budget, a bunch of [expletive]. They forgot about the talent. I'm not sure what Ozzie means by that. Perhaps the "political" comment has something to do with Scott Boras, who represents Crede. SI.com's Jon Heyman offers an alternative explanation, quoting a scout...   Continue Reading

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No Crede Trade Imminent

Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune reports that it's become "increasingly likely" that Joe Crede will get the Opening Day nod at third base for the White Sox, with Josh Fields heading to Triple A. It's an unfortunate situation for the 25 year-old Fields, who doesn't have much left to learn in the minors. Gonzales adds that trade talks with the Giants have "all but ceased," and the Dodgers don't seem all that interested either. Crede is trying to shake off the rust (his last regular season game was June 4th of last year) and prove he's an above average...   Continue Reading

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Giants Plan To Keep Pitchers

According to John Shea of the San Francisco Chronicle, the Giants are looking to add a bat without trading pitching. The names mentioned remain Joe Crede and Brandon Inge, but the White Sox and Tigers want hurlers. The equation doesn't seem to make sense on the surface - if the Giants won't trade pitching, and they have no hitters to speak of, how are they going to make an acquisition? As we learned Thursday, the answer is that the Giants may only be looking to trade undesirable veterans. Names like Scott Williamson, Randy Messenger, and Dave Roberts have been part...   Continue Reading

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White Sox Not Happy With Crede Offers

We knew that Joe Crede's name would be an oft-mentioned this spring. Further, we knew that he'd be connected with the Giants, who have infield needs. It appears the two teams have been discussing possible swaps, but the Sox are less than impressed with what's been offered thus far. According to Mark Gonzalez of the Chicago Tribune, the Giants have been offering up the likes of recently-cut Scott Williamson, recently-optioned Randy Messenger, and outfielder Dave Roberts, though not all in the same package. On the other end, GM Ken Williams is looking for "one of the Giants' top prospects and...   Continue Reading

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Giants Scouting Crede, Inge

This morning we have reports that the Giants have recently scouted Joe Crede and Brandon Inge. Even without a decent third baseman in the house, I don't really see the point of acquiring either guy. On Sunday, the Boston Globe's Nick Cafardo noted that the Giants could be less likely to acquire Crede given the Noah Lowry injury. Then on Monday, Kenny Williams mentioned that the two teams he'd discussed Crede with hadn't impressed with their offers. Williams suggested Crede could be his Opening Day third baseman, despite Josh Fields' worthiness. Inge is the other veteran third base option for...   Continue Reading

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Cafardo's Latest: Inge, Marte, Fuentes, Lohse

TUESDAY: Troy E. Renck of the Denver Post has an update to Cafardo's Yankees/Fuentes item. Renck says that while the Yanks have scouted Fuentes, Rockies' GM Dan O'Dowd says there's "zero chance" of a trade at this time. I imagine he wants to see a healthy Luis Vizcaino before considering it. MONDAY: Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe checks in with plenty of rumors in his Sunday column. The Red Sox checked in on Brandon Inge during the Winter Meetings, but found his contract prohibitive. Most teams seem to feel the same way. The Yankees are eyeing southpaw relievers Damaso...   Continue Reading

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Heyman's Latest: Crede, Ethier, Teixeira

SI.com rumor guru Jon Heyman has a new column up; let's take a gander. Heyman talked to an NL scout who considers Joe Crede a below average third baseman right now. If that scout's opinion is the consensus, it makes sense that Kenny Williams is inclined to wait for Crede to build more value. The Rangers pushed hard to acquire Andre Ethier from the Dodgers, both in a Mark Teixeira deal and after L.A. signed Andruw Jones. If I were a Dodger fan, I'd be angry to see the team put its pride ahead of winning by playing Juan Pierre...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Loretta, German, Belliard, Baldelli

An update to the Ken Rosenthal article discussed earlier suggests that either Esteban German or Ron Belliard would be better, cheaper alternatives for the Dodgers than Joe Crede or Brandon Inge. It would take less to get Belliard or German, they're paid less, and either of them could back up Jeff Kent, 40, at second base in addition to playing third. Both players are "attracting the Dodgers' interest" according to Rosenthal. The Baltimore Sun is now reporting that the Orioles have an interest in Mark Loretta. Hopefully this is a sign that the Brian Roberts-to-Chicago saga will soon mercifully come...   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Crede, Willits, Rivera, Belliard

Ken Rosenthal checks in with all kinds of hot stove info. Continuing on yesterday's post regarding Joe Crede and the Dodgers , Rosenthal reports that a source close to Dodgers management explained that the team trading for a third baseman like Crede or Brandon Inge is "all about the budget and whether [owner Frank] McCourt will allow them to add money." Rosenthal continues to point out that Crede is a better deal than Inge in terms of their contracts, and that Crede could also be more attractive to Dodgers management because the White Sox might be willing to trade for...   Continue Reading

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Rowand Still Hoping For Crede To Giants

The indefatigable Aaron Rowand continues his Joe Crede-campaign, hoping the Giants will make a deal for him now that the Dodgers have entered the picture. In an article in the Chicago Sports Tribune, Roward argues that Crede has played the last few seasons with a bad back and, now healthy, will put forth his best season yet. ''I'm just the middle man,'' Rowand said when asked how hard he has been pushing to be reunited with his close friend. ''I'm not playing recruiter. It's not like I'm going to [the front office] and saying, 'Get him.' They asked me, and...   Continue Reading

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Does Crede Make Sense For Dodgers?

South Side Sox wonders if the Dodgers will look to acquire White Sox third baseman Joe Crede now that Andy LaRoche is out two months with a torn thumb ligament and Nomar Garciaparra's status is day to day after getting hit in the wrist by a pitch. Buster Olney says the Dodgers are likely to trade for a player like Crede because "the perception about Garciaparra, among scouts, is that his unusual throwing mechanics make it very difficult for him to play third base on a regular basis." Previously, Los Angeles had been mentioned as a possible destination for Detroit...   Continue Reading

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Sox To Wait On Crede Trade?

SI.com's Jon Heyman gives his take on the White Sox-Giants Joe Crede trade talks: The White Sox apparently haven't been enamored by what the Giants have to offer for third baseman Joe Crede. A Giants person conceded, "We badly need bats,'' but they aren't to the point where they'll give up any of their better pitchers to get them. One possibility could be hard-throwing reliever Jonathan Sanchez, though it appears now that Crede may not be traded until closer to this summer's deadline. White Sox GM Kenny Williams has previously said that Josh Fields will play third base in 2008,...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Ponson, Inge, Papelbon

Let's round up some Monday morning links. The Cardinals are taking another look at Sidney Ponson. Insert your own punchline in the comments. Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun could see the O's making a minor trade for a veteran second baseman if they acquire Ronny Cedeno but not Eric Patterson in a Brian Roberts deal with the Cubs. Brandon Inge is trying his best to talk his way out of town. The Dodgers' recently reported nibble hasn't been publicly shot down, so that's a plus. South Side Sox thinks speedy infielder Eugenio Velez is the type of player the...   Continue Reading

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Odds And Ends: Crede, Marlins, Canó, Bonds

Some interesting tidbits this afternoon before I check out: Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle reports that one of Brian Sabean's top advisors, Ted Uhlaender, was present to witness Joe Crede's homer off of Arizona's Max Scherzer on Saturday. Seems more and more likely, as Crede proves his back is fine, that he will be moved to the Giants. Will the White Sox get Kevin Correia in exchange for Crede? The White Sox need a back-of-the-rotation guy, and Kenny Williams and company think they can win this year. So prospects probably won't get it done. While the Giants could...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Crede, Rodriguez, Marlins

Just a couple items worth mentioning: Matt Hurst notes Elasticman Scot Shields says "(Heck) yeah" to whether or not the Angels should dish out the big bucks for Francisco Rodriguez, this despite incentives in Shields contract that would kick in should he be transitioned into the closer role. Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun Times touches in on Joe Crede's fate after notching his first homerun of the spring, easing concerns for his surgically repaired back. Says Cowley, "Crede's agent, Scott Boras, already has told general manager Ken Williams that they want to explore the market. With Josh Fields waiting...   Continue Reading

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MLB Roundup Video

Time for more video! This time it's a team effort for a program called MLB Roundup. I do a section on Joe Crede.   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Roberts, Garcia, Crede

Today's assortment of links. Gary Sheffield is not fond of Scott Boras. Arte Moreno and the Angels aren't closing the door on K-Rod yet. Turns out Brian Roberts left camp because of a possible kidney stone. From Small Ball To The Long Ball has all kinds of cool data that I haven't seen elsewhere. For example, average initial pitch speed for pitchers. Dustin McGowan's fastball: 96.11mph. Tim Wakefield's: 75.62mph. Seems that Freddy Garcia might wait a few months before signing. Andrew Baggarly says the Giants consider Joe Crede a possible long-term piece even with his impending free agency. So maybe...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Kelly Johnson, Nathan, Crede

Time for some early Monday odds and ends. Remember how White Sox GM Ron Schueler embarrassed Cubs GM Ed Lynch in 1998 by acquiring Jon Garland for Matt Karchner? Rany Jazayerli sees a parallel to that heist with the Royals' acquisition of Daniel Cortes as part of the July '06 Mike MacDougal trade. Mike Berardino's blog continues to entertain; this time with a Dan Miceli story. Ah, knife fights with siblings. Who among us can say they haven't had one or two? Buster Olney learned from Braves GM Frank Wren that Kelly Johnson has been the team's most asked-for player...   Continue Reading

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White Sox Never Offered Crede Multiyear Deal?

Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times has received conflicting reports from Joe Crede and the White Sox. It seems that Sox GM Kenny Williams claims multiyear overtures were made to Scott Boras regarding Crede, while the player says nothing was ever offered. Additionally, Crede implied that he never spoke to Aaron Rowand about being traded to the Giants. I find this a little hard to believe; it would be kind of weird for the topic not to come up. Crede's mindset right now is that he's a member of the White Sox, though a trade before Opening Day seems inevitable....   Continue Reading

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Giants Considering Ensberg, Crede

We learned earlier today that Pedro Feliz rejected the Giants two-year offer. The team plans to look internally for a solution at third base. Andrew Baggarly of the Mercury News comes in with the possible leading candidate: Kevin Frandsen. He hasn't manned the hot corner regularly since college, but his performance in just under 300 plate appearances last year has earned him a legitimate shot at the starting gig. He played third base for 55 innings last year. Most of his time was spent at second base, which figures to be occupied by Ray Durham in 2008. Frandsen is a..   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Foulke, Ordonez, Feliz, Phillips

All sorts of odds and ends to discuss this morning. I will be appearing on Rutgers Student Radio this morning at 8:40am CST. You can go here and click the "listen" link to hear it live. Keith Foulke threw for the majority of teams in baseball last week, topping out around 84. The D'Backs may make an offer. I don't believe they have signed a free agent yet. The New York Times says Jose Canseco has apparently dragged Magglio Ordonez into the steroid mess, with the FBI getting involved on possible extortion. I have to admit, I am going to..   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Cano, Colon, Lowry

Here are some links I've rounded up this morning. In theory, Robinson Cano would be open to a long-term deal. River Ave. Blues recently took a look at how historically good Cano has been so far, and suggest the Yankees lowballed him with their arbitration submission. Baseball Prospectus' Derek Jacques saw Bartolo Colon pitch in the Dominican League Finals, and lends his evaluation. Colon was not impressive, but not terrible. It doesn't seem like he will get the two-year deal he wants. The Brewers will bring Abraham Nunez to camp. Versatile, but a drain on offense. Mark Gonzales of the..   Continue Reading

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Perrotto's Latest: Sabathia, Varitek, Crede, Villone

John Perrotto of Baseball Prospectus checks in with his usual Sunday column. He's got some new hot stove material to consider. Perrotto says the Indians are holding firm at an offer of four years plus an option for C.C. Sabathia. As of a week ago, the Indians were said to have an offer on the table for him. I suggested that the Tribe might top out around four years, $72MM plus an option for 2013. Perrotto writes that "Boston is expected to sign catcher Jason Varitek to a two-year extension worth around $20 million." Varitek could retire after that. Perrotto..   Continue Reading

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Giants' Talks With Feliz Stall

According to Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle, talks between the Giants and free agent third baseman Pedro Feliz are stalling. The parties have now passed a Giants-imposed deadline, apparently because the Giants wouldn't go three years on him. Even a two-year offer would be a mistake. Bringing him back in general seems an odd idea. Schulman suggests that Scott Rolen or Joe Crede could now become trade targets for Brian Sabean. What is this team's direction   Continue Reading

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Mailbag: Nioka, Crede, Snell

Let's dig through the ol' mailbag once again. Feel free to shoot an email to mlbtraderumors@gmail.com. Do you have any news regarding Japanese shortstop Tomohiro Nioka? Is he a free agent and are any teams pursuing him? - Bob It seems that Nioka turned out to be ineligible for free agency. We'll have to keep an eye out for him next year. What's up with Joe Crede? Will the ChiSox be looking to deal him this summer if they are struggling? And if so, you have to believe the Phillies would be top contenders for him. - Dan I'm almost..   Continue Reading

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Giants Pursuing Corner Infield Help

I'm not sure of the Giants' plan - are they rebuilding? Playing for 2008? Kind of rebuilding but trying to seem respectable? At any rate, the Giants don't have much going on at first and third base. I like the idea of going after a cheap under-30 third base upside play like Dallas McPherson. But I wouldn't fill the spot with a vet just to fill it. As for first, I've said before I'd just toss Dan Ortmeier there for 550 ABs in lieu of adding some stopgap. But that's just me; here's the latest on Brian Sabean's corner infield..   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Guillen, Crede, Hamilton, Boone

Rounding up some of the day's random rumors and tidbits... Jose Guillen might get a light suspension for his exploits. There was a report that the Brewers were close to obtaining Joe Crede, but it was published last night. The BBWAA approved a new resolution for 2013. Any player with a contract provision linked to a major award of theirs will not be considered for that award. Makes sense - to repeat Curt Schilling's situation. Curt Schilling could get a million bucks by netting one Cy Young vote in 2008. The BBWAA would rather preserve its right to have members..   Continue Reading

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Brewers Considering Crede, Blalock, Feliz, LaRoche, Tejada

What, you thought the Brewers were dead set on Scott Rolen? Not so, according to Tom Haudricourt. They're considering the following options at third base, mostly because the left field options are worse. Joe Crede - I can see this one happening, Doug Melvin and Kenny Williams get along. And Kenny really has nowhere to play Crede. Hank Blalock - Trading Blalock now is generally seen as selling low, so this seems unlikely. Pedro Feliz - I'm going to disagree with Haudricourt that Feliz is intriguing. Andy LaRoche - Now this one is intriguing, hitting the Dodgers up for LaRoche...   Continue Reading

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White Sox Make Third Base Decision

MLB.com's Scott Merkin reports that Kenny Williams has made a decision about his third base logjam. Williams wouldn't say who's on the way out - Josh Fields or Joe Crede. It stands to reason it's Crede though. Perhaps Williams' decision is to trade Crede, no matter what. I can't see why it would ever get to the point of non-tendering him. Though the team's assistant GM recently spoke to Scott Boras about Crede, they discussed his back rehab and had no extension talks. The Phillies and Brewers both make sense for Crede   Continue Reading

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Brewers Rumors: Crede, Riske, Gagne, Dotel

MLB.com's Adam McCalvy recently filed a report with a few new Brewers tidbits. Nothing new on the Scott Rolen front, but feel free to jump over to that rumor to discuss it. On to McCalvy's article: The Brewers briefly discussed Joe Crede at last month's GM Meetings. The Brewers and White Sox have been on friendly terms in the past; maybe they can work something out. There hasn't been much buzz about Crede lately, but the Carlos Quentin acquisition seems to punch his ticket out of town. The Brewers passed on an effective one-year, $8.5MM contract for Geoff Jenkins for..   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Kuroda, Hunter, Crede

What'd I miss recently? Here are some odds and ends. The Tigers have expressed interest in Hiroki Kuroda. They join the Phillies, Mariners, Dodgers, Royals, Rangers, Cubs, and Mets in that pursuit. 10 teams are interested in Aaron Rowand! That's almost 1/3 of all baseball teams! Torii Hunter is after a seven-year deal. Most feel he's saying that because he wants six. Clever! The Twins are taking a look at Tony Clark as a cheap DH option. He's supposedly looking for something like two years, $4MM and more playing time. This would be a very Twins-like signing. T.R. Sullivan has..   Continue Reading

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Crede For Damon Declared Dead?

They say that if you love something, you have to set it free. MLBTR conjured up a speculative Johnny Damon for Joe Crede rumor back on October 28th, and then watched it blossom into something widespread. Now I think it's time to pronounce this one dead. As you probably know by now, Johnny Damon met for breakfast Wednesday with new Yankees manager Joe Girardi. Girardi gave Damon the impression that he'd "definitely be back," and Brian Cashman spoke highly of Damon. Cashman did admit that he wouldn't rule anything out. Ken Davidoff mentioned that the Yankees would actually prefer to..   Continue Reading

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Yankees Aiming Higher Than Crede

According to Ken Davidoff of Newsday, the Yankees aren't likely to trade for Joe Crede. They're aiming for bigger fish like Mike Lowell, Adrian Beltre, Miguel Cabrera, and Scott Rolen. Garrett Atkins has been deemed unavailable. Additionally, Kenny Williams hopes to deal Crede relatively quickly and the Yankees are in no rush to fill their third base vacancy. Maybe the Phillies will jump into the fray for Crede. Lowell at least won't involve giving up young talent. But there are some questions about how he'd hit away from Fenway. And we're talking four or even five years to lure him...   Continue Reading

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Heyman's Latest: A-Rod, Atkins, Gagne

SI.com's Jon Heyman has a new column up. Let's discuss. Alex Rodriguez's five possible destinations: Angels, Red Sox, Mets, Giants, Dodgers. That sounds about right. Heyman notes that the Dodgers do not have an advantage because of Joe Torre; he says star players don't consider managers as a criteria when deciding where to sign. Though not mentioned as one of A-Rod's five potential landing spots, Heyman says the buzz is growing that Mike Ilitch and the Tigers could go after him. Heyman says the Rockies will hang on to Garrett Atkins and follow through with the plan to try Ian..   Continue Reading

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Crede For Damon Picking Up Steam

This thing is gaining traction. Buster Olney comments on the idea of a Joe Crede for Johnny Damon swap this morning: Makes sense in a lot of ways: The Yankees would get the veteran third baseman they need without committing themselves to big dollars, shed Damon's salary, and the White Sox would solve their third base logjam while adding a center fielder for much less than what the free agent center fielders will get (Damon is owed about $26 million over the next two seasons, and presumably, the Yankees would eat some of that to make a deal happen). Mark..   Continue Reading

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Kenny Williams Ready To Deal

This is going to be an incredible offseason, I just know it. This is going to be a hot stove season for the ages. White Sox GM Kenny Williams seems ready to dive right in, starting with the GM meetings on Monday. Interesting notes from the above-linked Mark Gonzales article: Josh Fields' position for 2008 will be revealed shortly, which seems to indicate a trade of Joe Crede on the horizon. Fields will end up at third base or left field next year. Outfielders Brian Anderson and Ryan Sweeney may be shopped. Anderson is doing a nice job talking his..   Continue Reading

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Yanks Dragging Feet With Posada, Discussing Crede

Mark Feinsand has really been on top of the Yankee rumors in this young offseason. Bill Madden helps him on this one. The Yankees still haven't made an offer to Jorge Posada, and baseball insiders can't figure out why. The Yanks are said to be prepared to offer 3/40, which most perceive as only a starting point in the negotiations. The Mets hope to lure Posada away, but it could take four or even a ridiculous five years. Like I've said...4/56. The Yankees will pay up. But if the Mets do get the Posada prize, the Yankees at least get..   Continue Reading

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Latest Phillies Rumors: Lowell, Rivera, Schilling

Let's catch up on the rumors and minor moves involving the Phillies recently. One offseason objective is, of course, third base. Abraham Nunez was an easy buyout decision; Pat Gillick will import a new third baseman this winter one way or another. Phils fans can stop dreaming up A-Rod scenarios; Gillick won't pursue him. Mike Lowell is the one free agent 3B on the Phils' radar. While Lowell wouldn't mind playing in Philly, he made it clear yesterday that Boston remains his first choice. So there's a good chance Gillick will have to get his man via trade. Scott Lauber..   Continue Reading

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Dodgers Need a Third Baseman

Ken Rosenthal has a bunch of news and notes, including a bit about the misshapen offense of the Dodgers. They have plenty of bats and plenty of prospects, but not enough to solve every problem they've got. Rosenthal mentions Morgan Ensberg, Hank Blalock, and Joe Crede as potential trade targets, but rightfully notes that none would make that big of a difference. The Dodgers recently called up prospect Andy LaRoche, a third baseman, and moved another prospect, Tony Abreu, to third at Triple-A Las Vegas. So they are at least trying some different things while Wilson Betemit continues to not..   Continue Reading

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White Sox Considering Erick Aybar?

In his latest blog post at ESPN, Peter Gammons mentions that the White Sox might pursue Angels shortstop Erick Aybar if Juan Uribe's future remains unclear. Joe Crede could be the trade candidate. Aybar, who turned 23 yesterday, hit .283/.327/.413 in Triple A last year (equivalent to .234/.269/.328 in the Majors). Baseball America ranks Aybar as the Angels' third best prospect, behind Brandon Wood and Nick Adenhart. Aybar has come up in many trade rumors already in his career. According to BA, Aybar handles the bat well and his glove, arm, and speed are plus tools. They see him as..   Continue Reading

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Gleeman: Crede In Play

Aaron Gleeman reports from Orlando that White Sox third baseman Joe Crede "continues to be in play, regardless of whether the Angels remain the destination." As a Scott Boras client with two years left of service time, now might be the time to cash in for Kenny Williams. The feeling seems to be that Josh Fields is ready to step in at third base after posting an .894 OPS at Triple A as a 23 year-old. Of course, no one knows what kind of overall dropoff the Sox would experience in making that substitution. Williams, of course, holds other important..   Continue Reading

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Pitchers on the move

Jason Schmidt has been offered $45 million over three years to join the Cubs. If that offer has been leaked already, $60M/4 seems within the realm of possibility. Strangely, Schmidt has already said he's not interested in the East Coast-you'd think he'd wait until Cashman made an offer and drove up his price before saying no. Once Schmidt signs, it'll be fun to watch Scott Boras conduct the sure-to-be-insane bidding for Barry Zito. Some team (to be announced tonight) won the bidding for Kei Igawa for $25 million. Hanshin has accepted. That's the second largest posting fee ever-somebody must think..   Continue Reading

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