MLBTR Originals

A look back at the original reporting and analysis found on MLBTR this past week:

• MLBTR learned Carlos Torres re-worked the opt-out clause in his minor league deal with the Mets where he would remain at Triple-A Las Vegas, but be allowed to contact other MLB teams. If Torres found a 25-man roster spot somewhere, the Mets would then have 48 hours to put him on their own active roster or the right-hander could declare free agency and sign with that other club. The Mets promoted Torres yesterday.
• MLBTR was the first to report Greg Reynolds and Travis Ishikawa had June 15 opt-out dates in their minor league contracts with the Reds and Orioles, respectively. Ishikawa exercised his opt-out today and, in addition to either being added to their 25-man roster or released within 48 hours, MLBTR learned the Orioles could also trade the first baseman during that window.
• MLBTR was the first to learn the Rangers signed their ninth-round draft pick right-hander Jose Samayoa.
• Tim Dierkes broke the news of the Diamondbacks signing right-hander David Pauley to a minor league deal and the Rays signing their second-round draft choice Riley Unroe to an above-slot contract.
• Steve Adams sees Scott Feldman as a trade candidate the Cubs could turn into a pair of top 15 prospects.
• Jeff Todd asked MLBTR readers which team had the best draft. The top pick was the Cubs with over 1,100 votes (10%) out of the more than 11,000 cast while the Nationals brought up the rear with only 86 votes (0.78%).
• Steve hosted this week's chat.
• MLBTR contributor Marc Hulet updated the Prospect Rumor Roundup.
• Zach Links compiled the latest edition of Baseball Blogs Weigh In.
• There are many ways to enjoy MLB Trade Rumors. Here's a refresher on how to use MLBTR.