Jorge Posada Talks Future With Yankees
Jorge Posada isn’t sure about much when it comes to his future in the Major Leagues but he knows he wants to keep playing. The longtime Yankee, who turns 40 tomorrow, told Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News that he’s leaning toward returning for an 18th MLB season after 2011, when his four-year, $52.4MM contract expires.
"To tell you the truth, I really don't know until the season's over and I get home and see what happens during the offseason, all the workouts and stuff,” Posada said. “I haven't really thought about it, but I still think that I will right now."
Though Posada hasn't caught this year, he believes he could return behind the plate as a backup “here and there.” The Yankees, who don’t view Posada as a catcher at this point, are the only team he has ever suited up for and the switch-hitter told Mark Hale of the New York Post that he “could” end up playing for another team in 2012. However, manager Joe Girardi called Posada a “beloved Yankee” and Posada himself admitted that it would be difficult to suit up for another team and for other fans.
It's a possibility that Posada will likely face in the relatively near future, since Russell Martin is under team control for another season and top prospect Jesus Montero is nearly Major League ready.
Blue Jays Sign Daniel Norris, Kevin Comer
The Blue Jays did not sign top pick Tyler Beede, but they did come to terms with two other high picks on substantial deals. They signed left-hander Daniel Norris for $2MM, according to Jonathan Mayo of MLB.com (on Twitter) and they signed right-hander Kevin Comer for $1.65MM, according to ESPN.com's Keith Law (on Twitter). The Blue Jays have confirmed the move via press release and noted that they also signed infielder Christian Lopes and third baseman Matt Dean.
You can keep track of which top picks have signed with MLBTR's list.
Cubs Sign Dillon Maples
The Cubs signed 14th rounder Dillon Maples for $2.5MM, according to Kendall Rogers of Perfect Game USA (on Twitter). Though they selected the right-hander 429th overall, the Cubs signed Maples for as much as MLB recommends offering the fifth overall pick. Top Cubs pick Javier Baez signed for $2.65MM after being selected ninth overall earlier tonight. The 19-year-old Maples stands 6'2" and weighs in at 195 pounds.
You can keep track of which top picks have signed with MLBTR's list.
Padres Sign Austin Hedges
The Padres announced that they have signed catcher Austin Hedges. They selected the 18-year-old in the second round of the draft after Baseball America named him the 12th-best position player prospect available and praised his defense. Tom Krasovic of Inside the Padres, who first reported the deal, says the agreement is worth $3MM (Twitter link).
You can keep track of which top picks have signed with MLBTR's list.
Nationals Sign Matt Purke
The Nationals signed third rounder Matt Purke to a four-year Major League deal, according to Jim Callis of Baseball America (on Twitter). The deal is worth roughly $4.4MM.
The Rangers drafted Purke in 2009, selecting him 14th overall out of high school. The following season, Purke was named National Freshman of the Year at TCU.
Mariners Release Chris Ray
The Mariners have released Chris Ray, according to Greg Johns of MLB.com (on Twitter). The 29-year-old right-hander began the day with a 4.68 ERA, 6.1 K/9 and 3.3 BB/9 in 32 2/3 innings.
By releasing the six-year veteran, Seattle creates space on its 40-man roster for Danny Hultzen, the second overall pick in the draft. Hultzen signed a big league deal, so the Mariners needed 40-man roster room.
Blue Jays Do Not Sign Tyler Beede
The Blue Jays did not sign first round pick Tyler Beede, according to Jim Callis of Baseball America (on Twitter). Octagon Sports represents the right-hander, who will head to Vanderbilt next year. The recommended bonus for the 21st overall pick was $1.332MM, but Beede appeared to be a tough sign even before Toronto scouting director Andrew Tinnish selected him in June. Beede turned down an offer of $2.3MM, according to ESPN.com's Keith Law (on Twitter).
You can keep track of which top picks have signed with MLBTR's list.
Brewers Sign Taylor Jungmann
The Brewers have signed first round pick Taylor Jungmann, according to a team press release. Hendricks Sports represents the right-hander, who was the 12th overall selection in the June draft. Jungmann was one of three Golden Spikes award finalists for Texas this year.
You can keep track of which top picks have signed with MLBTR's list.
Pirates Sign Josh Bell
The Pirates signed second rounder Josh Bell for $5MM, according to Jon Heyman of SI.com (on Twitter). The team has confirmed the deal. The high schooler appeared to be one of the toughest signs in the draft.
Nationals Sign Anthony Rendon
The Nationals have signed sixth overall pick Anthony Rendon, according to Jim Callis of Baseball America (on Twitter). Rendon obtained a four-year Major League deal that includes a $6MM bonus and a $7.2MM guarantee. Tim Dierkes explained Major League deals for draft picks earlier today. The Boras Corporation represents the third baseman.
Earlier in the year, I spoke to Rendon about his health and the team he rooted for growing up. Here's the transcript.
You can keep track of which top picks have signed with MLBTR's list.