ESPN’s Jayson Stark has a new blog post jam-packed with hot stove rumors.
- The Cubs are getting frustrated with the Brian Roberts situation, wondering if they’ll ever complete this trade. The Orioles are scouting players but still haven’t given the Cubs the names they crave. I got the exact same vibe from the source who told me Jose Ceda’s inclusion was never proposed by the Cubs.
- The Tigers and Phillies are both hunting for bullpen help; Detroit’s sights are set higher than Philadelphia’s. Unwanted players such as Wes Helms and Brandon Inge aren’t in demand. And while Marcus Thames is desirable, he’s not enough to get Aaron Heilman from the Mets. Brian Fuentes, also a Yankees target, may be the best available reliever. But Stark says the Rox want a "high-upside young arm" for the southpaw.
- My own guess at some useful relievers who may be available: Damaso Marte, Joe Nathan, Jamie Walker, Chad Bradford, Huston Street, Alan Embree, Kevin Gregg, Jon Rauch, and Chad Cordero.
- Stark names the Cubs, Rays, and Mets as the teams looking for an extra outfielder. No deals appear imminent, though the Rays made an unsuccessful offer to Kenny Lofton. The Mets and Cubs are considering the same names we’ve heard for a few weeks now. The Cubs are in a holding pattern since they may get Jay Payton in a Roberts deal with Baltimore.
