Johan Santana Rumors

Let’s check in on Johan Santana.  It’s kind of a big deal when the best pitcher in baseball becomes available.

• Ken Davidoff spoke to an NL official who believes the Twins will hold onto Santana and try to win with him in 2008.  Re-signing him long-term seems unlikely.  Davidoff believes every team in baseball would be interested, but the Mets would have to part with Jose Reyes to get him. Nonetheless Don Burke says the Mets will "pounce" on Santana if he becomes available.
• Joe Christensen spoke to Twins people who believe re-signing Santana is almost impossible.  The Twins won’t go to five years on an offer for him, and may lowball him the way they did Torii Hunter and Carlos Silva.  The offer would at least pave the way for an intense auction during the Winter Meetings.  A midseason trade is always a consideration too.  Keep in mind that Santana does have a limited no-trade clause allowing him to block trades to 12 teams.  He may use that as leverage. 
• Christensen adds that the Yankees may covet Santana more than they do Miguel Cabrera.  It’s still believed that they won’t part with Joba, Phil, or Ian though.
• Phillies GM Pat Gillick believes Santana "will be moved for sure."