Wolf Will Test Market

THURSDAY: Wolf told KRIV-TV in Houston last night that he’s flattered by the Astros’ efforts, but he plans to test the market.  His main goal is playing for a winning team, and he says his urge to play on the West Coast is overstated.  Astros GM Ed Wade says he’ll look at alternatives starting Friday.

WEDNESDAY, 5:30pm: The Astros also made an offer to reliever Doug Brocail.  His agent says about a dozen teams have inquired, the Red Sox among them.  The Astros would also like to re-sign Mark Loretta, but conversations have not yet begun.

1:46pm: According to Brian McTaggart of the Houston Chronicle, the Astros made an offer to free agent lefty Randy Wolf.  They’re hoping to get him signed before he hits the open market Friday.

Wolf, 32, tossed 190.1 innings of 4.30 ball for the Padres and Astros this year.  According to Ken Rosenthal, at least six other teams have expressed in Wolf already.  He could pull in a three-year deal north of $30MM.