Ibanez May Be Too Pricey For Royals
According to Bob Dutton of the Kansas City Star, Royals officials view Raul Ibanez as the best free agent fit for them. However, they’re not likely to give him a three-year deal in the $10-12MM range. They’re also reluctant to surrender their second-round pick to the Mariners.
Dutton says the Royals are "taking a hard look" at Rafael Furcal, who is the best available shortstop and doesn’t cost a draft pick. However, Dutton doesn’t see the Royals as the high bidder for Furcal either. The Giants, A’s, and Braves are eyeing Furcal, among others. Dutton sees the Royals adding a cheaper free agent, someone of the Nick Punto/David Eckstein variety.
Also on the Royals front, Jesse Spector talks to GM Dayton Moore. Moore denied reports that he’s down on Billy Butler.
Royals Payroll Could Reach $70 Million
Sports Radio 810 in Kansas City talked to Royals GM Dayton Moore recently.
- Moore hopes to sign Zack Greinke long-term. Greinke, however, is comfortable going year to year to maximize his earnings.
- Moore named three free agent bats he ranked above Mike Jacobs: Mark Teixeira, Manny Ramirez, and Bobby Abreu. He implied those three are out of the Royals’ price range. Moore feels that Jacobs will continue to improve.
- Moore says he has flexibility to extend payroll toward $70MM or even higher. He notes that last year the Royals tried to sign Jose Guillen and Torii Hunter, which would’ve pushed payroll to that range.
- Moore lists his needs as speed, OBP, a starting pitcher, and bullpen help.
- Mike Aviles could be shifted to second base if the Royals can acquire a "proven everyday shortstop." Royals Authority says: don’t move him!