MLBTR Originals

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

• There is a new platform on which you can enjoy MLBTR: MLB Trade Rumors Podcast. In the debut episode, host Jeff Todd recapped the week’s notable transactions and discussed the looming free agency of Chase Headley, Brandon McCarthy, and David Robertson with Tim Dierkes and Steve Adams. A new edition of MLB Trade Rumors Podcast will be released every Thursday evening with a free subscription available on iTunes.
• MLBTR’s Free Agent Profile series featured Headley, McCarthy, Robertson, Francisco Rodriguez, Luke Gregerson, Colby Rasmus, and Aaron Harang.
• Tim anticipates Headley receiving $48MM over four years.
• Steve envisions multi-year deals for both McCarthy (three years, $36MM) and Robertson (four years, $52MM).
• If teams are looking for a less expensive closer, Jeff anticipates Rodriguez signing for two years and $14MM.
• Tim foresees clubs in the market for a setup man will pay Gregerson $20MM on a three-year pact.
• Rasmus could receive a three-year contract, according to Jeff, but will prioritize finding the right fit over maximizing his earnings and will settle for a one-year, $12MM deal.
• Zach Links believes Harang will parlay his solid 2014 into a two-year pact worth $14MM.
• The Offseason Outlook series continued with the forecast for the Red Sox (by Mark Polishuk), Cubs (by Tim), Astros (by Steve), Marlins (by Jeff), Diamondbacks (by Zach), Phillies and Rangers (both by Brad Johnson).
• MLBTR’s Free Agent Faceoff is back for another offseason as Jeff featured shortstops Asdrubal Cabrera, Stephen Drew, and Jed Lowrie. Nearly 58% of you would prefer to sign Cabrera.
• Jeff asked MLBTR readers how the offseason will unfold for Brewers third baseman Aramis Ramirez. More than 56% of you see Ramirez remaining in Milwaukee either through an extension, accepting a qualifying offer, or both sides exercising their $14MM mutual option.
• MLBTR was the first to learn Braves right-hander Garrett Fulenchek and his agent Craig Rose both joined MSM Sports.
• Steve hosted this week’s live chat.
• Zach assembled the best of the baseball blogosphere for you in Baseball Blogs Weigh In.