Trevor Hoffman Rumors

Padres Decline To Offer Arb To Hoffman

According to Corey Brock of MLB.com, the Padres declined to offer arbitration to reliever Trevor Hoffman. Kevin Towers pretty much announced the plan earlier. Hoffman is a Type A free agent, but his new team will not have to surrender a draft pick upon signing him.   Continue Reading

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Indians Shift Focus To Closer

According to Paul Hoynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Indians decided last week that multiyear deals for Rafael Furcal or Orlando Hudson would be too risky (health concerns). They're likely to switch their focus to finding a closer. Hoynes says the Indians have talked to the agents for Brian Fuentes, Trevor Hoffman, Jason Isringhausen, and Francisco Rodriguez. Hoynes believes the Mets have the upper hand on K-Rod. Still, Fuentes has scheduled a trip to New York to visit with the Mets.   Continue Reading

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Odds And Ends: Tazawa, Hoffman, Halladay

Links for Saturday... Junichi Tazawa is expected to announce early next week that he will sign with the Red Sox. He turned down offers from the Rangers, Mariners and Braves. The Padres recently offered to talk with Trevor Hoffman, but he hasn't responded. Tom Krasovic also has a Sandy Alderson quote that the Padres are "highly unlikely" to offer Hoffman arbitration. Robert MacLeod talked to Blue Jays insiders who believe trading ace Roy Halladay would send "the wrong signal" to fans since the Jays want to compete in 2009. Rob Neyer wonders how C.C. Sabathia's weight will affect his performance...   Continue Reading

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Mets Will Try To Trade For Bullpen Help

The New York Times has sources who say the Mets will look to improve their bullpen through trades before starting more involved discussions with Francisco Rodriguez and Brian Fuentes. According to the article, the Mets have had discussions with various teams about trading for Jose Valverde, J.J. Putz, Huston Street and Bobby Jenks and are considering free agent relievers Kerry Wood and Trevor Hoffman. Even if the Mets add one of these relievers, they could still sign K-Rod or Fuentes in their efforts to completely remodel their bullpen. This week Mets GM Omar Minaya said Fuentes' asking price was "a...   Continue Reading

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Brown's Latest: Fuentes, Hoffman, Wilson, Aurilia

Here's a look at the latest from Yahoo's Tim Brown. The Mets kicked around the idea internally of signing both Brian Fuentes and Trevor Hoffman. The eighth inning would be a tough sell for either pitcher though. Brown says that if the Angels fail to sign Mark Teixeira they will try to sign C.C. Sabathia as well as a closer like Fuentes. The Dodgers want the Pirates to eat "a huge chunk" of the $7.85MM Jack Wilson has coming. The Giants and Dodgers have shown interest in Rich Aurilia.   Continue Reading

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Mets Rumors: K-Rod, Dye, Vazquez

6:22pm: According to SI.com's Jon Heyman, Minaya has reached out to K-Rod and Fuentes. He says the Mets prefer free agency to trading. We also have a rumor from Joel Sherman of the New York Post. He says the Mets offered Aaron Heilman to the Rockies for Street shortly after Colorado acquired him. The Rox wanted the Mets to add Pedro Feliciano, and the Mets refused. MetsBlog has more insight into the team's plans. 1:33pm: Rounding up today's Mets rumors... On Friday, David Lennon of Newsday said the Mets had received Francisco Rodriguez's medical records. He also had Omar Minaya...   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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Tigers Rumors: Zumaya, Hoffman, Miner

Joel Zumaya might be ready to pitch this spring--and he might not be, reports Jason Beck of MLB.com. Tigers assistant GM Al Avila calls it "basically a week-to-week, month-to-month situation." That's enough to force the Tigers to come up with a backup plan for their relief corps. Adding Trevor Hoffman as closer may be at the center of that plan. Brandon Lyon is another option for the ninth, says Beck. Zach Miner is mentioned as an in-house option for the bullpen, but likely wouldn't close. He may need to move to the rotation, pending an update on the futures of...   Continue Reading

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Closer Roundup: K-Rod, Fuentes, Wood, Hoffman

Joel Sherman of the New York Post takes a look at the sudden surplus of potentially available closers in major league baseball, a situation that certainly benefits the Mets considering their need to upgrade the bullpen this offseason. Two free agent closers that seemed destined to retire with their 2008 teams, Trevor Hoffman and Kerry Wood, now appear to be more available than was expected in October. That pair, along with Francisco Rodriguez and Brian Fuentes, give the Mets and other teams several options in free agency. Other relief pitchers with experience in the 9th inning have been recently mentioned...   Continue Reading

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Hoffman Comments

ESPN's Buster Olney spoke to free agent reliever Trevor Hoffman, who felt blindsided by the sudden end of his Padres career. He tells his side of the story, and says the Padres are "spinning lies to do damage control." A couple options for Hoffman: the Indians and Tigers. Hoffman has never pitched for an American League team, however.   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Perez, Torres, Beimel

Links for Friday, with an unplanned emphasis on relievers... The Tigers and Trevor Hoffman may be a match. Hoffman's agent closed the door on the Padres. The Royals brought Mike Arbuckle aboard, formerly of the Phillies. The Nationals have interest in re-signing Aaron Boone and Odalis Perez. MLB.com's Bill Ladson gives it a 50-50 chance. The Nats re-signed infielder Pete Orr, who could earn $600K. The Brewers picked up Salomon Torres' 2009 option, more of a procedural move than anything. The Marlins have an eye on minor league free agent Zach McClellan. Ken Davidoff makes contract and destination predictions for...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Ankiel, Hoffman, Mussina

Linkage for Thursday... Viva El Birdos tries to put a price on Rick Ankiel, and decides now is the time to trade him. Ankiel, a Scott Boras client, is eligible for free agency after the '09 season. Derrick Goold runs through the lefty reliever options for St. Louis on his blog. It doesn't seem like Trevor Hoffman is on the Cardinals' radar. Hoffman wants to remain a closer, so he won't be going to San Francisco either. Brian Cashman explains that $6MM for one year of Damaso Marte was too much, but $12MM over three years works. Ken Davidoff still...   Continue Reading

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Tigers Interested In Darren Oliver

Jon Paul Morosi of the Detroit Free Press talked to Darren Oliver's agent, who said the Tigers and Angels are two of four teams interested in his client. Morosi says the Tigers have also contacted the agents for Trevor Hoffman, Brandon Lyon, David Weathers, and Arthur Rhodes while also expressing interest in Florida's Kevin Gregg. Oliver, 38, posted a 2.88 ERA in 72 innings. His strikeout rate wasn't great, but he limited walks and home runs. He earned $2MM this year. As a Type A free agent, Oliver comes with the added tax of Detroit's second-round pick in the June...   Continue Reading

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Debunking Angels Rumors

MLB.com's Lyle Spencer shoots down three recent Angels rumors, based on his talks with "an informed baseball source." Spencer says the Halos are not interested in free agents Randy Johnson or Trevor Hoffman, nor are they talking to the Rockies about Garrett Atkins. The Angels were never linked too seriously to the Big Unit, though I thought it was a good match. Hoffman's agent mentioned the Angels as a "potential interested party." Both Rockies beat writers, Tracy Ringolsby and Troy Renck, have linked the Angels to Atkins recently.   Continue Reading

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The Trevor Hoffman Situation

In a post on his blog, Padres exec Paul DePodesta outlines the progression of the Trevor Hoffman negotiations (and also explains why exercising Brian Giles' option was an easy call). Tom Krasovic also provides details, including quotes from Hoffman's agent Rick Thurman. Thurman believes the $4MM offer for '09 (with a club option at the same salary for '10) was insincere. He feels the Padres never intended to sign Hoffman and calls the chances of a deal "miniscule." Hoffman is also upset that owner John Moores did not want to meet with him. Plus, Thurman seems annoyed that Towers contacted...   Continue Reading

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Hoffman, Padres Reach Impasse

5:02pm: Padres exec Sandy Alderson told MLB.com's Corey Brock he's perfectly willing to talk to Hoffman. 10:53am: The door is closed on both sides, according to Olney. Hoffman is upset with the Padres' handling of the situation. TUESDAY, 8:00am: Hoffman's agent considers his client "the cream of the closers." The Indians are expected to be one interested party, according to Barry Bloom and Corey Brock of MLB.com. The Tigers at least inquired about some unknown players represented by the Beverly Hills Sports Council, possibly Hoffman. Jon Paul Morosi says he fits their profile. MONDAY, 10:34pm: Olney is now more emphatic...   Continue Reading

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Rosenthal's Latest: Johnson, Peavy, Dempster

Here's a look at the latest from Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. It doesn't seem likely that Randy Johnson re-signs with the Diamondbacks, though Johnson is holding out filing for free agency until the possibility is exhausted. The D'Backs hope he will take a significant hometown discount; they have roughly $10MM to spend for Johnson and a second baseman. If a Mark Loretta type takes $2MM, will Johnson take $8MM after earning $15.1MM for a fine '08 season? The Braves are frustrated with the progress on the Jake Peavy talks, and will explore other options (especially once the free agent...   Continue Reading

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Cardinals Rumors: Hudson, Lopez, Kennedy

The Cardinals have moved on from Matt Holliday for the time being; let's see what else is cooking. Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch has the latest. Middle infield seems to be the primary concern now. One option is to pursue a trade for Kelly Johnson or Yunel Escobar of the Braves, but that will probably require Ryan Ludwick. However, those talks must wait until the Braves resolve their chase of Jake Peavy. On the free agent front, the Cardinals are interested in Orlando Hudson but not Felipe Lopez. Scott Boras seems to be aiming for a multiyear deal...   Continue Reading

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Olney's Latest: Peavy, Hoffman, Sabathia

Buster Olney has a new update on the Padres and a new article about the Giants. Olney says there's a growing feeling that Jake Peavy will be dealt "sometime before Thanksgiving." Trevor Hoffman hopes to meet with Padres executives soon to discuss the team's direction. Olney says that the Indians are one of many teams who might be interested in Hoffman if he decides to reject the Padres one year $4MM offer. Olney writes that the Giants shouldn't let the Barry Zito signing stop them from going after C.C. Sabathia aggressively this offseason.   Continue Reading

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Hoffman Hopes To Meet With Padres Owner

According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Trevor Hoffman requested 12 days ago to meet with Padres owner John Moores and CEO Sandy Alderson. Hoffman's agent says the Padres have not responded, though GM Kevin Towers said he left a voicemail. Hoffman wants to talk about his role and the direction of the team. He has reason to be concerned, with the Padres openly shopping Jake Peavy. The Padres' offer is not impressive: $4MM in '09 and a club option at the same salary for '10. Hoffman's taken less to remain in San Diego in the past; will he do it...   Continue Reading

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More Odds And Ends: Padres, Francoeur, Manny, Phillies

A few more notes from the MLBiverse... Tom Krasovic of the San Diego Union-Tribune is reporting that the Padres have not set their '09 payroll but that it could be as low as $40MM. Krasovic also notes that the Braves are not one of the teams that have inquired about Khalil Greene. Also, Kevin Towers continues to sound positive about the possibility of resigning Trevor Hoffman. The Padres have offered Hoffman a one-year deal for $4MM with a '10 option at the same price. Paul DePodesta comments about all of the rumors that are swirling on his personal blog. We...   Continue Reading

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Indians Open To All Options At Closer

According to Paul Hoynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Indians GM Mark Shapiro is considering all options for the team's closer job. No free agents have been ruled out, even expensive closers like Francisco Rodriguez and Brian Fuentes. The Indians' #15 pick is protected, if they go that route. Shapiro admitted to interest in Trevor Hoffman and Kerry Wood, if they are not retained by their old teams. If the Indians can't find a closer, they may add a late inning reliever to put in front of Jensen Lewis and Rafael Perez anyway. On the trade front, the Indians have...   Continue Reading

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Indians Interested In Blake

According to Paul Hoynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Indians have expressed interest in bringing third baseman Casey Blake back to Cleveland. Blake stands out in a weak free agent market at the hot corner. The Dodgers are also interested, but they may view other needs as a higher priority. At the least, they should offer him arbitration as a Type B free agent. Blake's agent anticipates offers ranging from one to three years. Blake brings the added benefit of versatility, as he can play first base and right field as well. In other Indians news, agent Rick Thurman...   Continue Reading

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Padres Rumors: Hoffman, Giles

Padres GM Kevin Towers has more on his plate than just Jake Peavy and Khalil Greene - he also has to deal with Trevor Hoffman and Brian Giles. Towers talked to Hoffman's agent about a week ago; he submitted an offer two weeks ago. ESPN's Buster Olney said the offer was $4MM for '09 and a club option for '10. The Padres have until Saturday to make a decision on Giles' $9MM option (it has a $3MM buyout). Towers says he's leaning toward exercising it before the weekend.   Continue Reading

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Padres Waiting To Hear From Hoffman

SATURDAY: ESPN's Buster Olney says the Padres offered Hoffman a $4MM salary for '09, plus an option for '10 that includes a buyout. Tough call for Hoffman. THURSDAY: Tom Krasovic of the San Diego Union-Tribune talked to Padres GM Kevin Towers about the Hoffman situation. Towers says he made an offer to Hoffman on Friday and has yet to receive a response. TUESDAY: Trevor Hoffman wants to continue pitching. The Padres would like to retain his services. It sounds like a perfect match. According to Corey Brock of MLB.com, the two sides could get something done soon. The Padres will...   Continue Reading

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Padres Rumors: Bell, Hensley, Giles

A couple of Padres rumors this morning from Tom Krasovic of the San Diego Union-Tribune... Reliever Heath Bell says talks on a multiyear deal didn't get very far and he's content using the arbitration process for the first time. Bell stands to earn a million or two in '09. The Reds are interested in Padres pitcher Clay Hensley. Hensley, 29, posted a 5.31 ERA in 39 big league innings. He pitched another 48 innings in Triple A. His strong groundball rate could make a nice fit for the Reds. Jeff from Cot's Baseball Contracts told me Hensley has enough service...   Continue Reading

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Padres Rumors: Moores, Giles, Hoffman

MLB.com's Barry Bloom talked to Padres owner John Moores recently. Highlights: Moores doesn't expect to be out of the picture next year despite his divorce. Word was his wife Becky wanted to gain control of the Padres. Moores expects Sandy Alderson and Kevin Towers back in 2009, and Paul DePodesta was recently extended for three more years. Moores says it's "more likely than not" that the Padres exercise Brian Giles' $9MM option as opposed to the $3MM buyout. Moores acknowledges that the Padres probably cannot find a player like Giles for $6MM. Trevor Hoffman may be the tougher call, as...   Continue Reading

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Padres Meet With Hoffman

MLB.com's Barry Bloom spoke to Padres closer Trevor Hoffman yesterday. Hoffman revealed that he met with GM Kevin Towers on Saturday, and came away with positive feelings about re-signing for '09. First, however, the Padres need to determine their payroll for next year. Hoffman mentioned a desire for a multiyear deal, which could complicate the situation. The Padres surely want him back, but would they lock the 41 year-old in for two years? Perhaps one year with a vesting option would satisfy both parties. Hoffman will only explore the open market if the Padres don't want him back.   Continue Reading

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Padres To Talk To Hoffman Soon

MLB.com's Corey Brock talked to Padres GM Kevin Towers, who said he plans to talk to closer Trevor Hoffman about a contract for next year before season's end. The interest is mutual. If the Padres decline Brian Giles' option and trim payroll to $50MM, they'll have about $7MM left to spend on Hoffman and other free agents.   Continue Reading

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Odds And Ends: Mets, Embree, Olsen, Hoffman, Izzy, Phillies

A few notes from around the MLBiverse... Bill Madden says the Mets may be out of luck for a closer, even if Huston Street and Brian Fuentes have cleared waivers and are available. Madden says the price tags are just too high for the Mets. Alan Embree hopes that not being traded is a sign the A's are going to pick up his $3MM option for next season. Scott Olsen said he prefers to be back with the Marlins in '09 but conceded that the Marlins may prefer to move him due to his arbitration eligibility. Kevin Towers would not...   Continue Reading

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Odds and Ends: Kendall, Laird, Giles, Manny

Today's linkage... A friend pointed out to me how strange it is that the Twins were willing to take on Jarrod Washburn's salary and give up Boof Bonser but chose to trade Johan Santana before the season. If Bill Smith could go back in time, would he still make that deal? A Gary Sheffield acquisition by the Rays is "unlikely but not impossible," according to one Buster Olney source. As expected, Jason Kendall's option for '09 vested. He's off the list! The Rangers were willing to trade Gerald Laird and a solid prospect to the Marlins for Chris Volstad. The...   Continue Reading

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Padres Rumors: Maddux, Hoffman, Kouzmanoff, Greene, Bard

4:32pm: More from Towers - he's had inquiries on Jake Peavy, Trevor Hoffman, Heath Bell, Kouzmanoff, and Greene. Potential deals will be assessed after the season, though Towers wants Hoffman to stay until the end of his career. 2:43pm: MLB.com's Corey Brock has the latest on the Padres and Greg Maddux. Maddux apparently will only accept a trade to a West Coast team, preferably the Dodgers. Padres GM Kevin Towers doesn't mind trading within the division. The only piece missing is interest from L.A. They've got good pitching depth, but if Maddux could be added at a reasonable price, why...   Continue Reading

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Hoffman Re-Ups With Padres

The Padres brought back Trevor Hoffman today, getting their customary home-town discount. The deal will pay Hoffman $6.75MM annually and the option on the third year is based on games finished. There's nothing wrong with this move, considering the price. Back in late October, Hoffman's agent was talking about $10MM a year. Hoffman is still a dominant reliever across his 50-60 innings, although Scott Linebrink could easily handle the 9th inning. The poor guy won't be a free agent until after the 2007 season, at which point he could get Kyle Farnsworth money   Continue Reading

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Burnett, Hoffman, Manny, And More

Latest hot stove from around baseball: Jayson Stark and Jerry Crasnick are reporting from Dallas that the Blue Jays are close to signing A.J. Burnett to a five year, $55MM deal. Seems Burnett's agent is going back to Walt Jocketty one last time before finalizing the deal in an attempt to squeeze that fifth year out of him. We'll know soon enough if Jocketty caved in. According to Hot Stove All-Star Ken Rosenthal, the Indians are nearing a deal with Trevor Hoffman for $21-24MM over three years. For a team that got a solid year out of the decaying corpse..   Continue Reading

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