MLBTR Originals

A look back at the original reporting and analysis found on MLBTR this past week scattered amongst the Thanksgiving leftovers, Black Friday shopping bags, and Cyber Monday ads:

• Tim Dierkes was the first to learn the Twins were close to a major free agent signing, which turned out to be Ricky Nolasco (#20 on MLBTR's 2014 Top 50 Free Agents list).
• Tim suggests the Nolasco deal provides little upside for the Twins, but represents the market rate for mid-to-back-of-the-rotation starters.
• Steve Adams contends it is difficult to properly evaluate the four-year, $53MM contract the Cardinals gave to Jhonny Peralta (#21) because of a disconnect between his market value and the media perception of his worth.
• In the wake of the Peralta signing, Jeff Todd offered a series of proposals to create a more effective system of PED disincentives.
• The signing of setup man Joe Smith (#44) was a questionable allocation of resources for the Angels, according to Tim.
• MLBTR contributor Matt Swartz examined the aribtration cases of a pair of right-handers: Justin Masterson and Homer Bailey.
• Tim reported two teams have requested the medicals on free agent left-handed reliever Tim Byrdak.
• Zach Links revisited some of the major transactions which have taken place on November 28th in recent years.
• Mark Polishuk listed the managers and GMs entering the final year of their contract.
• Steve hosted this week's chat.
• Zach 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 the apps, features, and functions on MLBTR.