Baseball News: Mei 2012

Kamis, 31 Mei 2012

Trade Candidate: Carlos Quentin

« Quick Hits: Moyer, Blue Jays, Myers, Middlebrooks | Main

If Carlos Quentin keeps hitting and the 17-35 Padres continue struggling, contending teams figure to call about the left fielder this summer. In a trade market that seemingly features little power, Quentin's right-handed bat will have considerable value.

Carlos Quentin - Padres (PW)

The 29-year-old recently returned to the Padres' lineup after missing nearly two months to recover from arthroscopic knee surgery. So far, the results have been remarkable. He has seven hits, including three home runs, in 12 trips to the plate. It's a small sample, of course, but in more than 2400 career plate appearances the two-time All-Star has a .254/.347/.496 batting line. In other words, Quentin offers an attractive combination of on-base skills and power as a hitter. On defense, he's sure-handed and has decent range with a below-average throwing arm, according to The Fielding Bible Volume III.

Quentin will earn $7.03MM this season before hitting free agency. Similar players -- think Josh Willingham, Jason Kubel and Luke Scott -- are worth $6-8MM on the free agent market, which means a qualifying offer in the $12-3MM range seems highly unlikely. The Padres won't be getting draft picks for Quentin, so a trade appears to be the only way for the team to obtain a long-term asset for the left fielder.

When GM Josh Byrnes acquired Quentin last December, he sent minor league left-hander Pedro Hernandez and right-hander Simon Castro, a former top-100 prospect, to the White Sox. The Padres may be able to acquire better prospects if Quentin's knee holds up and his bat returns to form. As I mentioned before, there doesn't seem to be much power on the trade market (Alfonso Soriano could probably be had, but he earns $18MM in 2013 and 2014, which makes things messy). And it could take a while for bats to become available because more teams than ever are within striking distance of a playoff berth.

Once Quentin plays enough to show he is healthy, Byrnes could make him available and wait for other teams to start making offers. The Indians, Orioles and Dodgers are among the teams that might have interest in adding a right-handed hitting outfielder with power in the next eight weeks. If Quentin is healthy the Padres may come out ahead this summer and trade him for better prospects than the ones they surrendered to acquire him.

Photo courtesy of US Presswire.

Longest Current Contracts By Team

« Mets Intend To Offer Wright Extension During Season | Main | Quick Hits: Moyer, Blue Jays, Myers, Middlebrooks »

As the number of long-term contracts and contract extensions increases, teams lock themselves into payroll obligations well into the future. With some help from Cot's Baseball Contracts, let's take a look at the longest current contracts for all 30 teams...

Signed Through 2023

Reds: Joey Votto

Signed Through 2021

Angels: Albert Pujols

Signed Through 2020

Brewers: Ryan Braun
Rockies: Troy Tulowitzki
Tigers: Prince Fielder

Signed Through 2019

Dodgers: Matt Kemp
Nationals: Ryan Zimmerman

Signed Through 2018

Red Sox: Adrian Gonzalez
Orioles: Adam Jones
Twins: Joe Mauer

Signed Through 2017

Cardinals: Yadier Molina
Diamondbacks: Miguel Montero
Giants: Matt Cain and Madison Bumgarner
Marlins: Jose Reyes
Pirates: Andrew McCutchen
Rangers: Ian Kinsler and Yu Darvish
Yankees: Alex Rodriguez

Signed Through 2016

Cubs: Gerardo Concepcion
Indians: Carlos Santana
Mets: Jonathon Niese
Padres: Cameron Maybin
Phillies: Ryan Howard
Rays: Matt Moore
Royals: Salvador Perez
White Sox: John Danks

Signed Through 2015

Athletics: Yoenis Cespedes
Blue Jays: Jose Bautista and Ricky Romero
Braves: Dan Uggla
Mariners: Danny Hultzen

Signed Through 2013

Astros: Wandy Rodriguez

Quick Hits: Moyer, Blue Jays, Myers, Middlebrooks

« Longest Current Contracts By Team | Main | Trade Candidate: Carlos Quentin »

Cal Ripken Jr. started his streak of 2,632 consecutive games played on this date 30 years ago. He played third base and batted eighth for the Orioles back on May 30th, 1982 and continued playing until September, 1998. Here are today's links...

Jamie Moyer told Troy Renck of The Denver Post that he hopes to continue pitching after being designated for assignment by the Rockies earlier today (Twitter link). When asked if Moyer will keep playing, MLBTR readers were split nearly 50-50.
It'll be an interesting summer for Blue Jays fans as they await the moves of GM Alex Anthopoulos, Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports writes.
Kevin Goldstein explains how teams could clear space for top prospects like Wil Myers and Anthony Rizzo in a piece at ESPN.com.
Will Middlebrooks and Yu Darvish join Matt Moore, Bryce Harper and Mike Trout on Jim Bowden's list of rookies with the best long-term futures at ESPN.com.

Mike Axisa contributed to this post.

Rabu, 30 Mei 2012

Quick Hits: Oswalt, Marlins, Hunter, Draft

« Phil Dumatrait Retires | Main | Trade Candidate: Matt Capps »

Free agent left-hander Joe Beimel underwent Tommy John surgery earlier this month, and Tim Brown of Yahoo! Sports reports (on Twitter) that the 35-year-old plans to resume his career once healthy. Brown says Beimel pitched with the torn elbow ligament for 3-4 years. Here's the latest from around the league...

The Angels were very close to signing Roy Oswalt at one point according to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com, but the right-hander had reservations about leaving his family for an extended period of time. The Rangers signed Oswalt earlier today.
The Red Sox remained in contact with Oswalt during the season but did not make him an offer, reports WEEI.com's Rob Bradford. They did make him in offer prior to the season.
'There are always things that can be done," said Marlins president of baseball operations Larry Beinfest to reporters (including Juan C. Rodriguez of The Sun-Sentinel) when asked if the club can add pieces this summer. "There's still room for improvement here. Whether that means changes or not, I don't know. It's still May."
Bill Shaikin of The Los Angeles Times reports (on Twitter) that the Angels have reinstated Torii Hunter from the restricted list. The outfielder spent time away from the team to deal with his son's legal issue.
In his latest mock draft, ESPN's Keith Law projects the Astros to take Stanford right-hander Mark Appel with the first overall pick in next Monday's draft. "The Astros intend to take whomever they believe is the best player, not the best player for the price," wrote Law.

Phil Dumatrait Retires

« Mets Intend To Offer Wright Extension During Season | Main | Quick Hits: Oswalt, Marlins, Hunter, Draft »

Phil Dumatrait has voluntarily retired and been released by a Twins, reports Tyler Mason of FOXSportsNorth.com (on Twitter). The team has confirmed the move.

Dumatrait, 30, had a 1.15 ERA in 15 2/3 innings for Minnesota's Triple-A affiliate this season. He owns a 6.20 ERA in 151 career big league innings spread across 17 starts and 70 relief appearances for the Reds, Pirates, and Twins.

Trade Candidate: Matt Capps

« Quick Hits: Oswalt, Marlins, Hunter, Draft | Main

The Twins are off to a 17-32 start, which gives them a projected 0.0% chance of claiming a postseason berth this year, according to Baseball Prospectus' playoff odds report. Expect general manager Terry Ryan to field his share of calls this summer, when buyers survey the rosters of second division teams for late-season depth.

Matt Capps - Twins (PW)

Matt Capps figures to draw interest, as contending teams are always looking for relief help. Yet he isn't your typical closer. Just three MLB relievers with as many innings as Capps (19) have a lower strikeout rate so far this year: Alex Burnett, Rafael Dolis and Jon Rauch. Capps strikes out just 4.7 batters per nine innings and doesn't induce a noteworthy number of ground balls or swings and misses. It'll be enough to make some general managers wonder how long he can keep his ERA below 4.00.

But the Twins can point to Capps' many positives in summer trade talks. The 28-year-old limits walks (1.4 BB/9) and has averaged 68 appearances per year since his first full season in 2006. He throws hard -- his average fastball checks in at 92.5 mph -- and owns a relatively low ERA (3.79) to go along with lots of saves (10 this year, 124 in the Major Leagues). He's earning $4.5MM in 2012, which makes him affordable for most buyers.

Capps was a ranked free agent last offseason, meaning the Twins had a chance at obtaining draft pick compensation for losing the right-hander. But under baseball's new collective bargaining agreement, teams must be prepared to offer players a salary in the $12-13MM range if they expect compensatory picks. There's no way Capps is worth that kind of money, and his $6MM club option ($250K buyout) is hardly team friendly either. In essence, the Twins must make a trade if they intend to obtain an asset for the future.

When the Twins acquired Capps midway through the 2010 season they gave up a promising young catching prospect who has since become an MLB regular: Wilson Ramos. It'd be a coup for Ryan if he can convert Capps into an equally promising MLB-ready prospect. But Capps' trade value isn't as high as it was two summers ago, when he induced more strikeouts and had a year of team control remaining. This time the Twins seem more likely to obtain secondary prospects if they trade the closer.

Photo courtesy of US Presswire.

Selasa, 29 Mei 2012

Roy Oswalt Could Sign This Week

« Dodgers Have Made Offer To Roy Oswalt | Main

There's an expectation that Roy Oswalt will agree to sign with an MLB team this week, Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com reports (on Twitter). The Rangers, Orioles, Red Sox, Phillies and Dodgers have all been linked to the free agent right-hander in recent weeks.

The Rangers, who may be the favorites, could use Oswalt now that Neftali Feliz is on the disabled list. The Orioles are known to be seeking pitching and their division rivals, the Red Sox, have endured the struggles of Clay Buchholz and Daniel Bard. Phillies starters are dealing with injuries and the Dodgers actually made Oswalt an offer earlier this year.

Cubs Open To New Contract For Ryan Dempster

« NL West Notes: Abreu, Dodgers, Padres, Giants | Main | Dodgers Have Made Offer To Roy Oswalt »

Even though Cubs right-hander Ryan Dempster knows that he could be traded in July, team president Theo Epstein says that he has talked to the pitcher about remaining in Chicago beyond 2012, writes Toni Ginnetti of the Chicago Sun-Times. Epstein said that there has been open dialogue and the two sides could possibly work out a new contract.

"Long term, sure. We'll have to take a realistic look at where we are," Epstein said.

Dempster, 35, is in his ninth season with the Cubs and in the final year of a four-year, $52MM deal. The veteran has a 2.14 ERA with 8.2 K/9 and 2.5 BB/9 through eight games this season and is likely the Cubs' most attractive trade chip.

Dodgers Have Made Offer To Roy Oswalt

« Cubs Open To New Contract For Ryan Dempster | Main | Roy Oswalt Could Sign This Week »

TUESDAY: While the Dodgers did make Oswalt an offer, it came a while ago and the sides were far apart, Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com tweets. The Rangers are seen as the favorite to land the right-hander.

MONDAY: The Dodgers have made an offer to Roy Oswalt, according to Tim Brown of Yahoo Sports (via Twitter). The Rangers, who are likely Oswalt's preferred team, are still in mix among other clubs.

Yesterday, it was reported that the Dodgers inquired on the veteran at one point but didn't appear to be involved any longer. The Brewers also checked in on Oswalt but didn't feel that his salary could fit into their budget. A major league source told Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe that Oswalt's preferred destinations are Texas and St. Louis, just as they were during the offseason.

Senin, 28 Mei 2012

Week In Review: 5/20/12 - 5/26/12

« Roy Oswalt Rumors: Sunday | Main | Rosenthal On Pirates, Astros, Rangers »

Happy Memorial Day Weekend! Let's take a look back at the week that was here on MLBTR...

Adam Jones can claim the distinction of being the second-highest paid center fielder in MLB (only behind Matt Kemp). His extension eclipses Miguel Tejada's six-year, $72MM deal as the largest contract in Orioles history. Jones, 27 in August, is currently enjoying a career year as he's hitting .311/.357/.601 in 196 plate appearances. The Orioles officially announced his six-year, $85.5MM extension this afternoon.
The Diamondbacks and catcher Miguel Montero agreed to a five-year $60MM contract extension, making him the highest-paid player in Arizona history. Montero, 29 in July, had a breakout season in 2011 when he was named to his first All-Star team and hit .282/.351/.469 on the year. It's been a busy year for catchers receiving hefty extensions as the Cardinals and Yadier Molin struck a five-year, $75MM deal in March.
The White Sox signed veteran infielder Orlando Hudson to a one-year deal. The Padres recently released the 34-year-old former All-Star, who will now provide the White Sox with depth at third base and second base.
A return to the Pirates has failed to reinvigorate Nate McLouth's career as Pittsburgh designated the veteran outfielder for assignment after his offensive struggles with the Braves followed him to PNC Park. McLouth was traded to the Braves from the Pirates in June 2009 and spent two-plus years in Atlanta.
The Diamondbacks designated Cody Ransom for assignment and the Brewers claimed the infielder on waivers to obtain depth at shortstop. Ransom, 36, has enjoyed success in limited action with Arizona as he posted a .269/.345/.577 batting line in 58 plate appearances.
Bill Hall was unable to build upon his first at-bat success with the Orioles. He homered in his first trip to the plate as an Oriole, but Baltimore designated the utility player for assignment this week and then outrighted him to Triple-A Norfolk.
The Angels designated David Pauley for assignment after the right-hander pitched ineffectively out of the bullpen for Los Angeles. Pauley, 28, was outrighted to Triple-A Salt Lake by the Halos after clearing waivers.
Released by the Cardinals earlier in the season, veteran reliever J.C. Romero signed a minor league deal with the Orioles and will report to Triple-A Norfolk.
After some early season struggles, right-hander Jason Marquis was designated for assignment by the Twins. Through seven starts in 2012, Marquis posted an ERA of 8.47 with 3.2 K/9 and 3.7 BB/9.
The Marlins are looking for outfield help after announcing that Emilio Bonifacio will miss four to six weeks due to surgery on his left thumb. They may have found an option when they acquired outfielder Justin Ruggiano, who has been hitting exceptionally well at Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Looking to improve infield depth, the Pirates acquired Drew Sutton from the Braves for cash considerations. Plans changed a day later as Pittsburgh flipped Sutton for a player to be named from the Rays.
D.J Carrasco's tenure with the Mets came to a close this week when the team released the veteran reliever after recently designating him for assignment.
With nearly as many walks (11) as strikeouts (12) in 18 innings out of the bullpen, right-hander Collin Balester was designated for assignment by the Tigers.

Roy Oswalt Rumors: Sunday

« Astros Sign Brian Bass | Main | Week In Review: 5/20/12 - 5/26/12 »

Earlier today, we learned Roy Oswalt would still prefer to play for the Rangers or Cardinals. Here is the latest:

Oswalt's asking price has gradually decreased over the course of the season, but still may need to be reassessed if the right-hander wants to return the big leagues any time soon, reports CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman. Oswalt may not meet his asking price of $7.5MM prorated, predicts an executive of an interested team, who says the former Astros ace should eclipse Andy Pettitte's $2.5MM contract.
Heyman says the Phillies could be more in play for Oswalt considering Roy Halladay's shoulder issue (Twitter link). Halladay left his start today after only two innings as a precaution due to right shoulder stiffness.
Peter Gammons of the MLB Network tweets Oswalt's agent is telling teams his client worked out for the Dodgers on Friday. This morning, Heyman reported via Twitter that the Dodgers inquired about Oswalt at one point, but don't appear involved now.
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reports the possibility of Oswalt returning in June is diminishing. According to Rosenthal, Major League executives say it's his asking price. One source tells Rosenthal Oswalt wants a pro-rated $7.5MM in base salary. Another said that Oswalt's desired salary is a moving target, 'but always high.'
Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (via Twitter) says the Brewers checked in on Oswalt but apparently he wanted more money than they have in budget for half a season.

Rosenthal On Pirates, Astros, Rangers

« Week In Review: 5/20/12 - 5/26/12 | Main

The acquisition of right-handers Jason Hammel and Matt Lindstrom has proved integral to the Orioles' early season success. The same cannot be said for Jeremy Guthrie, sent to the Rockies by Baltimore in the same trade, as the right-hander has struggled in injury-limited action for Colorado. Let's check in with Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports as he catches us up on news and rumors from around the league in his latest column:

The Pirates may be strong candidates to trade pitching for hitting the way the Mariners did when they traded Michael Pineda for Jesus Montero. While the Pirates' offense averages fewer than three runs per game their pitching staff has offered glimmers of hope. More specifically, the Pirates' bullpen leads the league in relief ERA with a plethora of quality relievers waiting for an opportunity at Triple-A Indianapolis.
Count Houston general manager Jeff Luhnow among the believers who think that the Astros may be buyers at the trade deadline given their plus-11 run differential heading into Memorial Day. 'I do think so,' Luhnow said. 'I don't necessarily know if we'll take on a whole bunch of salary. But we'll look at every opportunity that comes our way, evaluate it in terms of short-term impact and medium and long-term impact. Look for Houston to attempt to trade Wandy Rodriguez, Carlos Lee and Brett Myers if the team begins to mimic last year's 106-loss club.
The inability to move right-hander Koji Uehara during the offseason and later during Spring Training has paid huge dividends for the Rangers this season. After struggling in Arlington upon being acquired from the Orioles, Uehara has rebounded nicely in 2012 by posting a 1.04 ERA with 9.9 K/9 and 1.0 BB/9.

Minggu, 27 Mei 2012

Braves Sign Collin DeLome

« Two Walk-Year Closers With Declining Trade Value | Main

Here are the day's minor moves...

The Braves have signed outfielder Collin DeLome according to his Twitter feed. The 26-year-old hit .253/.318/.460 in his six year minor league career after being the Astros' fifth round pick in 2007. They released him last month.

Rosenthal's Latest: Morneau, Ruiz, Upton, Hamilton

« Orioles To Extend Adam Jones | Main | Two Walk-Year Closers With Declining Trade Value »

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports has a new Full Count video up, so let's recap...

Don't be surprised if the Twins consider trading Justin Morneau. The first baseman is owed $14MM both this season and next, and Minnesota likely needs the position for Joe Mauer long-term. Denard Span, Matt Capps, and Carl Pavano could also be on the block, but Morneau offers hard-to-find power. He has a no-trade clause but the extent is unknown.
The Phillies hold a $5MM option for 2013 on catcher Carlos Ruiz and an extension is warranted, but at 33 years old, Chooch is three years older than Yadier Molina and four years older than Miguel Montero. They aren't contract comparables.
This year's crop of free agent center fielders stand to benefit from Adam Jones' new six-year, $88.5MM extension, but age will again be a factor. B.J. Upton will be 28 next season and is two years younger than Michael Bourn and four years younger than Shane Victorino. All three will hit the open market after the season.
Josh Hamilton is unlikely to sign a contract extension with the Rangers, and the lack of comparable players (both on and off the field) make him even more likely to hit the open market. It's possible the only way to determine his actual value is to let other teams bid for his services as a free agent.

Two Walk-Year Closers With Declining Trade Value

« Rosenthal's Latest: Morneau, Ruiz, Upton, Hamilton | Main | Braves Sign Collin DeLome »

Uspw_6259562 The new playoff system may or may not impact the number of buyers and sellers this summer, but there's one thing about the trade deadline that won't change: pitching will be in demand. It is every year and in all forms -- starters and relievers, right-handers and left-handers, aces and innings-eaters -- there's a market for all of them.

A popular target for clubs looking to add bullpen help is the proverbial "closer on a bad team." The Rangers were 14.5 games out when they traded Eric Gagne to the Red Sox in 2007 and the Nationals were 13.5 games out when they traded Matt Capps to the Twins in 2010, just for example. The upcoming free agent class is littered with closers, but two of them have seen their trade value drop because of poor performance in recent weeks.

Brandon League, Mariners
League saved 37 games and was an All-Star a year ago, but this season he's pitched to a 4.43 ERA with a 44.4% ground ball rate that is well below his career norm (60.3%). Manager Eric Wedge removed the 29-year-old right-hander from the closer's role following last night's blow save, already his fourth of the season. He told reporters (including Larry Larue of The News Tribune) they'll instead "match up with what we think works" in the ninth inning.

Grant Balfour, Athletics
Three poor performances (two blown saves) in late-April and early-May cost Balfour his job as closer, and now he's working the seventh inning in Oakland thanks to Ryan Cook's emergence. The 34-year-old veteran has a 4.09 ERA in 22 innings, though his strikeout (7.0 K/9) and walk (3.3 BB/9) rates are both trending in the wrong direction for the second straight season.

Both League and Balfour are scheduled to become free agents after this season, though Balfour's contract includes a $4.5MM club option ($350K buyout) for 2013. With pitchers like Jonathan Broxton, Huston Street, and Francisco Rodriguez providing quality rental bullpen help alternatives on the trade market, the Mariners and A's could be left with nothing to show for their free agent-to-be relievers.

Photo via US Presswire.

Sabtu, 26 Mei 2012

NL Central Notes: Berkman, Cubs, Lucroy, Astros

« Rockies Notes: O'Dowd, Moyer, Guthrie, Pitching | Main | Quick Hits: McLouth, Padres, Oswalt, Hamilton »

The light-hitting Pirates again didn't generate much offense on Friday, scoring just one run against the Cubs. Fortunately for the Bucs, that lone run was all they needed --- five Pittsburgh hurlers (started off by A.J. Burnett's scoreless 5 1/3 frames) combined to shut out Chicago in a 1-0 result. The Cubs have now suffered 10 consecutive losses.

Here's the latest from around the division...

Lance Berkman was considering retirement two years ago before playing in pennant races with the Yankees and Cardinals reignited his love of baseball, writes Richard Justice for MLB.com. Berkman discussed retirement again in the wake of his recent knee injury, but he is expected to miss only 8-10 weeks of action, rather than the entire season. Justice can see Berkman signing to play DH with the Astros when they move to the AL West next season, but I'm not sure if Berkman's love of his old team would overcome his desire to play for a contender, should one exist this winter.
The Cubs are expected to focus on Major League roster moves once the June 4 amateur draft passes, reports Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune.
Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy's rise to the majors is profiled by Todd Rosiak of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Lucroy is enjoying a huge breakout season and the five-year, $11-13MM extension he signed with Milwaukee in March is looking like a great bargain for the team, especially given the much more expensive deals signed by catchers Yadier Molina and Miguel Montero.
"Rumors continue to swirl that Astros scouts prefer Byron Buxton but that higher-ups want someone who can provide more immediate help," writes Jim Callis of Baseball America. Callis thinks Houston should take Buxton, a high school outfielder who Callis compares to Matt Kemp, Justin and B.J. Upton in terms of overall tools.
Astros legend Craig Biggio has been given the title of special assistant with the team, owner Jim Crane tells Zachary Levine of the Houston Chronicle.

Rockies Notes: O'Dowd, Moyer, Guthrie, Pitching

« AL East Links: Jones, Wieters, Ohlendorf, Yankees | Main | NL Central Notes: Berkman, Cubs, Lucroy, Astros »

Here's the latest about the Rockies as the team opens up a three-game series against the Reds in Cincinnati....

GM Dan O'Dowd tells MLB.com's Thomas Harding that the organization isn't going to make any quick changes based on the club's poor record thus far, including his own job. "That's human nature: fire the GM....And we're examining our entire process," O'Dowd said. "We don't stick our heads in the sand, but we make decisions in a calmer way, rather than an emotional way. Hey, I've made them the other way. I've acted the other way in previous years. That doesn't work, either. I've intentionally chosen to act the way I'm acting. I'm all in. No backing out now."
Owner Dick Monfort told Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post earlier this week that he wasn't going to fire either O'Dowd or manager Jim Tracy. As part of a live chat with Denver Post readers, Patrick Saunders disagreed with Monfort, saying "if the Rockies' season continues to go south this season, O'Dowd's job should be in jeopardy. There is no way he should be getting a free pass. This is a performance-oriented business."
From that same chat, Saunders also said that Jamie Moyer's time in Colorado is running out as the Rockies will want to give their young pitchers a chance in the rotation. The Denver Post's Troy Renck cited Marco Scutaro and Jeremy Guthrie as midseason trade candidates; Renck would "be surprised if Guthrie is not dealt."
The performance of the Rockies' pitching staff, as well as Tracy and O'Dowd's handling of those pitchers, is criticized by Paul Swydan of Fangraphs. Swydan also recaps the Rockies' poor returns on recent trades.

Quick Hits: McLouth, Padres, Oswalt, Hamilton

« NL Central Notes: Berkman, Cubs, Lucroy, Astros | Main

It's never a good sign for a team when its catcher has the game's best pitching line. Jeff Mathis' scoreless inning of mop-up work made him the only Blue Jay hurler to not allow a run in the Rangers' 14-3 drubbing of the Jays. Nelson Cruz swung the hottest Texas bat, going 4-for-5 with a home run and eight RBIs.

Here's some more news from around the majors...

The Angels have "no real interest" in Nate McLouth, reports MLB.com's Alden Gonzalez (Twitter link). McLouth was designated for assignment by the Pirates earlier today.
Major League Baseball has given approval for three ownership groups to review the Padres' financial records as a step towards possibly buying the team, reports MLB.com's Barry M. Bloom. The groups are respectively headed by Thomas Tull, Peter O'Malley and Steve Cohen. Tony Gwynn is affiliated with Tull's group, while O'Malley and Cohen also recently bid to buy the Dodgers.
Roy Oswalt needs to show some compromise if he really wants to pitch for the Rangers, writes Evan P. Grant for the Dallas Morning News (subscription required).
The Rangers should be willing to pay Josh Hamilton $180MM+ to keep him from leaving as a free agent, opines Randy Galloway of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. "You don't let immense talent walk. Immense talent always stays. Even if you overpay, immense talent, the best talent in baseball, stays -- warts, demons and all," Galloway says.
Juan Carlos Oviedo has received his visa and will arrive at the Marlins' minor league headquarters on Monday, reports Juan C. Rodriguez of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Oviedo and his representatives have not decided if they will appeal Oviedo's eight-week suspension for playing under a false identity as Leo Nunez.
The week's minor league transactions are recapped by Matt Eddy of Baseball America.

Jumat, 25 Mei 2012

Minor Moves: Gathright, Dodgers, Phillips, Benitez

« AL East Links: Orioles, Oswalt, Jones, Nova | Main | Quick Hits: Wright, Oviedo, Broxton, Catchers »

The latest minor moves from around MLB...

The Reds have signed Joey Gathright to a minor league deal according to the CBSSports.com transactions page. The 31-year-old outfielder was hitting .240/.348/.365 in an independent league. He appeared in seven games for the Red Sox last season.
The Dodgers announced that they have signed or are in the process of signing more than 20 Latin American players. The group includes at least 10 position players and 10 pitchers and reflects a new approach to the international market from the one adopted under the ownership of Frank McCourt. 'With our renewed resources in that area and the upcoming first-year player draft next month, we look forward to adding many talented young players to the Dodger family,' GM Ned Colletti said.
The Blue Jays acquired catcher Paul Phillips from the Brewers for cash, according to Mike Vassallo of the Brewers (on Twitter). Phillips had been playing at Triple-A Nashville and owns a .269/.317/.369 batting line in 13 minor league seasons.
The Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League signed former MLB closer Armando Benitez, according to Adam Rubin of ESPNNewYork.com. The 39-year-old has 289 career saves in 15 MLB seasons. He last appeared in the Major Leagues with the 2008 Blue Jays.

Quick Hits: Wright, Oviedo, Broxton, Catchers

« Minor Moves: Gathright, Dodgers, Phillips, Benitez | Main | Orioles To Extend Adam Jones »

Here's the latest from around the league as Thursday turns into Friday...

"We're all hopeful that long-term, [David Wright] will be here," said Mets GM Sandy Alderson during tonight's game broadcast according to MLB.com's Anthony DiComo (on Twitter). "I don't see any great impediment to that occurring."
Juan Carlos Oviedo confirmed to Enrique Rojas of ESPN Deportes that he has not yet received his visa but he is in the process of doing so. Earlier this week we heard that the pitcher formerly known as Leo Nunez had received his visa and was on his way back to the United States and the Marlins.
Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com says Jonathan Broxton could be either a trade candidate or an extension candidate for the Royals. The closer will be a free agent after the season, but Knobler compares him to Jeff Francoeur, who signed a one-year deal with Kansas City last season before agreeing to a two-year extension.
Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports.com wrote about offensive catchers, which he says are a dying breed. Joe Mauer, Brian McCann, Mike Napoli, and Miguel Montero all have sub-.815 OPSes this season.

Orioles To Extend Adam Jones

« Quick Hits: Wright, Oviedo, Broxton, Catchers | Main

Adam Jones is the best player on the first-place team in baseball's most competitive division and the Orioles aren't going to let him slip away. They are nearing a long-term contract extension with the center fielder, Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports report (plus Twitter links).

Adam Jones - Orioles (PW)

Jones completed his physical yesterday and the sides are in the process of completing the final details of the contract. The Orioles are making a commitment "well north" of Miguel Tejada's six-year, $72MM contract and Nick Markakis' six-year, $66MM extension, Rosenthal and Morosi report. This means the CAA Sports client will sign the largest contract in Orioles history.

Jones, 26, is earning $6.15MM this year as a second-time arbitration eligible player. The extension will buy out one year of arbitration eligibility and an unknown number of free agent seasons.

Jones is hitting .311/.357/.601 in 196 plate appearances this year. He's on his way to establishing career-highs in home runs (14 so far) and slugging percentage. Though he has a career on-base percentage of .322, his walk rate and on-base percentage are both on the rise.

Earlier this month Dave Cameron of FanGraphs compared Jones' breakout to Matt Kemp's 2011 season and suggested an extension in the $120-140MM range could work for both sides. Check out MLBTR's Extension Tracker for more comparable contracts.

Photo courtesy of US Presswire.

Kamis, 24 Mei 2012

Quick Hits: Oviedo, Ransom, Greinke, Boras

« Blue Jays Place Adam Lind On Outright Waivers? | Main | Heyman On Hamels, Yankees, Oviedo »

Andy Pettitte's last game before his retirement was in Game 3 of the 2010 ALCS against the Rangers, featuring Jeff Francoeur. Pettitte allowed two runs over seven innings in that game and tonight, Francoeur got another look at him, this time as a member of the Royals. Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com asked him if he looked just as sharp this time around as once again allowed two runs over seven innings of work. "Absolutely," Francoeur said. "He looks good. I thought he would." Tonight's links..

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports runs down veterans on minor league deals that can ask for their releases if they are not promoted to the majors by June 1st. Interesting names include David Bush, Oliver Perez, and Doug Slaten.
Juan Carlos Oviedo (formerly known as Leo Nunez) received his visa and will begin serving an eight week suspension when he reports, tweets Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald. He adds that Oviedo will likely report in a few days.
Diamondbacks skipper Kirk Gibson is sorry to lose Cody Ransom as he hoped to keep him after he was waived, tweets Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic. The infielder was claimed by the Brewers earlier today.
As it stands now, no big league managers appear to be in danger of losing their jobs, writes Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports.
Jim Bowden of ESPN.com (Insider subscription required) lists Zack Greinke, Ryan Dempster, Kevin Youkilis, Wandy Rodriguez, and Justin Morneau as his five candidates who could be moved by July 31st.
In a piece for ESPN.com (Insider sub. req'd), Kevin Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus explains how agent Scott Boras can capitalize on this year's draft.

Blue Jays Place Adam Lind On Outright Waivers?

« Lance Berkman Considering Retirement | Main | Quick Hits: Oviedo, Ransom, Greinke, Boras »

WEDNESDAY, 8:46pm: As of today, there are no indications that the Blue Jays placed first baseman Adam Lind on outright waivers, writes MLB.com's Gregor Chisholm.

If Lind was outrighted, he would have been removed from the 40-man roster after a 48-hour period, but a second source told Chisholm that the 28-year-old was still on the club's official list.

SATURDAY, 6:00pm: The Blue Jays placed recently demoted slugger Adam Lind on outright waivers on Friday, according to Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com (via Twitter).

If Lind is claimed, the claiming team will assume the balance of the four-year, $18MM extension he signed early in the 2010 season. That deal also includes club options for 2014-16, with corresponding buyouts. If he goes unclaimed, he will remain with Toronto but will be removed from the 40-man roster.

Lind signed his extension on the heels of a breakout 2009 in which he posted a .305/.370/.562 line with 35 homers. The 1B/OF/DH has fallen well short of that since then, however, hitting .238/.289/.420 with 52 homers in 1,287 plate appearances from 2010 till his demotion to Triple-A this week.

Outright waivers are irrevocable, meaning the Jays wouldn't be able to pull Lind back if another team were to claim him. However, an AL executive tells Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com that there's "no chance he gets claimed" (Twitter link).

Heyman On Hamels, Yankees, Oviedo

« Quick Hits: Oviedo, Ransom, Greinke, Boras | Main

The Phillies haven't been in touch with Cole Hamels to discuss an extension recently, according to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com. It's getting to the point where it would almost seem like an upset if the Phillies re-signed the left-hander, Heyman writes. Here are the details on Hamels and more of Heyman's notes from around MLB...

Three agents suggested to Heyman that Hamels' next contract could fall in the $150-175MM range. The deals for left-handers Johan Santana (six years, $138MM) and C.C. Sabathia (seven years, $161MM) could provide reference points for interested teams and agent John Boggs.
Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner says rumors that he might sell the team are a "complete fiction," (Heyman tweets). "Me and my family have no intention to sell the Yankees and expect [the franchise] to be in the family for years to come,'' Steinbrenner said. The New York Daily News reported that the Yankees are exploring the possibility of selling the team.
Juan Carlos Oviedo, who recently received his work visa, will report to extended Spring Training soon, Heyman tweets. The pitcher formerly known as Leo Nunez will serve an eight week suspension before returning to the Marlins.

Rabu, 23 Mei 2012

Minor Moves: Cory Aldridge, Lance Zawadzki

« Tigers To Designate Collin Balester For Assignment | Main | Quick Hits: Lidge, Hamels, Worley, Ortiz »

The latest minor moves from around MLB...

The Angels have signed outfielder Cory Aldridge to a minor league deal, reports Bill Shaikin of The Los Angeles Times (on Twitter). The 32-year-old hit .363/.440/.650 in the Mexican League this year after not playing in 2011. Aldridge has 18 career big league plate appearances to his credit with the 2001 Braves and 2010 Angels.
The Braves signed infielder Lance Zawadzki to a minor league contract, according to the transactions page at CBSSports.com. The 26-year-old switch-hitter has big league experience with the 2010 Padres and had spent the early part of the 2012 season with the Dodgers' Triple-A affiliate. Zawadzki owns a .259/.332/.394 batting line in parts of six minor league seasons.

Tigers To Designate Collin Balester For Assignment

« Roy Oswalt Rumors: Tuesday | Main | Minor Moves: Cory Aldridge, Lance Zawadzki »

The Tigers will designate Collin Balester for assignment tomorrow according to Brian Britten, the team's director of media relations (on Twitter). The move will clear a roster spot for Quintin Berry.

Balester, 25, pitched to a 6.50 ERA with nearly as many walks (11) as strikeouts (12) in 18 innings this season. Detroit acquired him from the Nationals for Ryan Perry this offseason. Balester is out of options and needs to clear waivers before he can go to Triple-A.

Quick Hits: Lidge, Hamels, Worley, Ortiz

« Minor Moves: Cory Aldridge, Lance Zawadzki | Main | 2013 Contract Issues: Kansas City Royals »

On this date in 2003, the Tigers signed Jair Jurrjens as a 17-year-old amateur free agent out of Curacao. He made his big league debut with Detroit in 2007 before being traded to the Braves as part of a package for Edgar Renteria. Here's the latest from around the league...

"They're going to have to ante up ... he hasn't been willing to take discount so far," said former Phillies reliever Brad Lidge to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com when asked about Cole Hamels' impending free agency (Twitter links). Lidge also speculated about a fit between his former teammate and the Dodgers.
A second opinion confirmed that Phillies right-hander Vance Worley does not need Tommy John surgery but will have to pitch with bone chips in his elbow for the rest of the season, reports MLB.com's Todd Zolecki (on Twitter).
Red Sox GM Ben Cherington told reporters (including WEEI.com's Alex Speier) that he feels David Ortiz has taken his leadership to a new level this season (Twitter link). He said he feels good about the relationship between the team and the DH, who is due to become a free agent after the season.

Selasa, 22 Mei 2012

Phillies In Contact With Cole Hamels' Agent

« Rangers Will Consider Roy Oswalt | Main | Minor Moves: Galarraga, Montanez, Barfield »

10:10pm: As of early this afternoon, there's no evidence of progress in the Phillies' talks with Cole Hamels, according to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com (via Twitter).

8:49pm: Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said he remains in contact with Hamels' agent, John Boggs, as free agency approaches, according to Matt Gelb of the Philadelphia Inquirer (via Twitter). While the two sides are keeping dialogue open, they have yet to set any deadlines or target dates in their discussions.

"It's been pretty open. We've kept it open. We haven't made any timelines. I haven't gotten any from them," said the GM.

Hamels is set to be one of the top talents on the open market this winter and at least one team inquired about the hurler early in the year as the Phillies struggled. The Phillies currently sit at 21-21 and at the bottom of the National League East.

2013 Contract Issues: Seattle Mariners

« Minor Moves: Galarraga, Montanez, Barfield | Main

The Mariners are next in MLBTR's 2013 Contract Issues series:

Eligible For Free Agency (5)

Ichiro Suzuki - Sentimentality only goes so far, as the Mariners know from Ken Griffey Jr.'s return to Seattle. Yet it's hard to imagine Ichiro in another team's uniform and he appears to prefer Seattle to other potential suitors. He won't be earning $17MM per season, no matter where he plays.
Brandon League - Nothing screams 'trade candidate' like established relievers nearing free agency on non-contenders. It won't be surprising if the Mariners trade League this summer. Hopefully for Seattle, potential suitors aren't put off by the right-hander's declining peripherals.
Hisashi Iwakuma - Manager Eric Wedge hasn't used Iwakuma much (four appearances in the team's first 43 games). That in itself could be an indication that he's not part of the Mariners' long-term plans.
George Sherrill - The left-hander will miss the remainder of the season to recover from Tommy John surgery.
Kevin Millwood - GM Jack Zduriencik did well to add Millwood to the rotation on a low-risk deal. The right-hander figures to sign another short-term, low-risk contract this coming offseason whether he's back in Seattle or pitching elsewhere.
Munenori Kawasaki - The infielder has the right to elect free agency for the purposes of going back to Japan but not to explore other opportunities in MLB.

Contract Options (1)

Miguel Olivo: $3MM club option. If at the end of the season the Mariners don't believe Jesus Montero is a future catcher, there could be a role for Olivo on next year's team. He has his shortcomings on offense and on defense, but he hits lefties, which makes him a suitable complement to the left-handed hitting John Jaso.

Arbitration Eligible (4)

First time: Shawn Kelley, John Jaso
Third time: Brendan Ryan, Jason Vargas

This relatively small arbitration class doesn't figure to generate many headlines, but Vargas could be an exception. He's building a case for another substantial raise via arbitration and it's hard not to wonder if the Mariners might cash in on him soon, while his salary's just $4.85MM, and obtain a couple of controllable players in a trade. Contenders will be looking for pitching help before long and Vargas' durability should generate interest.

2013 Payroll Obligation

The Mariners have committed $40MM to next year's team, according to Cot's Baseball Contracts. Ownership has been lowering payroll in recent years, and the 2012 team will cost approximately $85MM. GM Jack Zduriencik should have financial flexibility this coming offseason when he looks to round out his pitching staff and add some offense.

Minor Moves: Galarraga, Montanez, Barfield

« Phillies In Contact With Cole Hamels' Agent | Main | 2013 Contract Issues: Seattle Mariners »

Tonight's minor moves..

The Astros signed pitcher Armando Galarraga to a minor league deal, writes Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. The 30-year-old will help the Astros fill a rotation spot at Triple-A Oklahoma City after starter after Henry Sosa agreed to pitch in Korea.
The Cardinals signed outfielder Lou Montanez, according to the CBSSports.com transactions page. Montanez, 30, was released by the Phillies earlier this month. The outfielder struggled in 17 games for Triple-A Lehigh Valley, hitting just .136/.264/.159 in 53 plate appearances.
The Orioles re-signed utility player Josh Barfield and assigned him to Double-A Bowie, tweets Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com. The O's released Barfield from Triple-A Norfolk last month to make room for right-hander Jason Berken.

Senin, 21 Mei 2012

Quick Hits: Blue Jays, Lind, Ellis, Indians, Damon

« MLBTR Originals | Main | Lance Berkman Likely Has Torn ACL »

Sunday night linkage..

Blue Jays manager John Farrell would not comment on last night's news that Adam Lind was placed on outright waivers and spoke as though the slugger will remain with the organization, writes Chris Toman of MLB.com. The skipper believes that Lind can find his way back to Toronto with a "controlled aggressiveness" at the plate.
The Indians plan to stick by Johnny Damon despite his struggles so far with the team, writes MLB.com's Justin Albers. Damon has a clause in his contract which would allow him to be released if he isn't getting enough playing time or isn't a good fit for the team.
Offseason acquisition Mark Ellis has been a tremendous clubhouse influence and will be sorely missed by the Dodgers after undergoing emergency surgery on Saturday, writes Steve Dilbeck of the Los Angeles Times. Had the surgery been put off for six or seven hours, the veteran could have potentially lost his left leg, Dilbeck writes.

MLBTR Originals

« Lance Berkman Considering Retirement | Main | Quick Hits: Blue Jays, Lind, Ellis, Indians, Damon »

A look back at the original reporting and analysis from the MLBTR team this week.

Ben Nicholson-Smith continued the 2013 Contract Issues series by examining several NL clubs: Cardinals, Pirates, Brewers, Astros, Reds, Cubs, Nationals, Phillies, & Mets.
Ben also identified Cole Hamels and Jose Mijares as possible trade candidates. Some teams might have interest in Mijares as a specialist against left-handed hitters.
Mark Polishuk discussed the possibility of a contract extension between Melky Cabrera and the Giants.
Ben took a look at how the 2011 non-tenders are contributing with their new teams.
Zach Links revisited the acrimonious split between the Mets and Rickey Henderson 12 years ago.
Ben provided a brief primer on how free agent compensation works under baseball's new collective bargaining agreement.
Mike Axisa rounded up the best of the baseball blogosphere in Baseball Blogs Weigh In.
MLBTR first reported outfielder Nick Weglarz cleared waivers and was outrighted to Double-A.
Ben hosted this week's live chat.

Lance Berkman Likely Has Torn ACL

« Quick Hits: Blue Jays, Lind, Ellis, Indians, Damon | Main

It appears that Lance Berkman suffered a torn ACL in his right knee Saturday, Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch tweets. An MRI will take place today to confirm the early diagnosis. The injury could end Berkman's season and has the veteran switch-hitter considering retirement.

Matt Adams and Matt Carpenter provide the Cardinals with a pair of internal options at first base. Adams had a .340/.375/.603 batting line at Triple-A before getting called up this weekend and Carpenter has a .280/.345/.500 through 113 plate appearances as a corner infielder and outfielder with the Cardinals this year. Allen Craig could also play first base once he returns from the disabled list, ESPN.com's Buster Olney notes.

Berkman, 36, will earn $12MM in 2012 before hitting free agency this offseason. He is a client of Moye Sports Associates.

Minggu, 20 Mei 2012

Roy Oswalt Rumors: Saturday

« Quick Hits: Lind, Rhodes, Renteria, Hunter | Main

Free agent right-hander Roy Oswalt popped back up on the rumor radar yesterday, as he recently auditioned for the Red Sox and Phillies. He also plans to throw for two more teams and is reportedly looking to sign relatively soon so he can be back on the mound by next month. Let's keep track of the day's Oswalt rumors right here, with the latest up top...

Oswalt threw for the Rangers yesterday, reports Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports (Twitter links). The situation is the same as it was this offseason, however. Oswalt wants to start but Texas doesn't have a spot for him with both Scott Feldman and Alexi Ogando serving as extra starters in the bullpen. Rosenthal thinks the Rangers could trade Colby Lewis to make room for Oswalt, but there's no indication they're considering it, and there's no guarantee Oswalt would be better than Lewis (Twitter).
Oswalt's return to the Phillies is possible but not probable, explains Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com.
The Rangers were simply doing their due diligence with Oswalt, a source told Jeff Wilson of the Star-Telegram (via Twitter).

Blue Jays Place Adam Lind On Outright Waivers

« Orlando Hudson To Sign With White Sox | Main | Quick Hits: Lind, Rhodes, Renteria, Hunter »

The Blue Jays placed recently demoted slugger Adam Lind on outright waivers on Friday, according to Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com (via Twitter).

Quick Hits: Lind, Rhodes, Renteria, Hunter

« Blue Jays Place Adam Lind On Outright Waivers | Main | Roy Oswalt Rumors: Saturday »

Saturday evening linkage ...

The Marlins are likely to discuss acquiring Blue Jays DH Adam Lind, but their pursuit will be tempered, according to Juan C. Rodriguez of the Sun Sentinel (via Twitter). Miami optioned struggling first baseman Gaby Sanchez to Triple-A New Orleans today.
Free agent Arthur Rhodes has remained in playing shape in case a team becomes interested in signing a lefty reliever, according to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com (via Twitter). Rhodes last pitched last season for the Cardinals.
Free agent shortstop Edgar Renteria has turned down two offers and apparently wants to remain retired, according to Heyman (Twitter link). Renteria played for the Reds last year.
Angels manager Mike Scioscia hopes outfielder Torii Hunter will return from the restricted list during the Halos' ongoing road trip, according to Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times (Twitter link). Hunter was placed on the RL on Monday to deal with a family matter.
Indians closer Chris Perez suggested free agents prefer not to sign with Cleveland because of poor attendance at Progressive Field, writes Jordan Bastian of MLB.com. Specifically, Perez cited Cardinals outfielder Carlos Beltran, who turned down an offer from the Indians this offseason in favor of a comparable one from the Cardinals.
The Padres' youth movement will pay off someday, but things will be tough in the interim, writes Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com. The Padres have one of baseball's top farm systems and will have the opportunity to build on it with six of the first 70 picks in this year's draft.
Former Dodgers shortstop Rafael Furcal thinks that Dee Gordon will work out for the club in the long-term, writes Dylan Hernandez of the Los Angeles Times. The Dodgers felt that they could part with Furcal last year in part because of Gordon's presence.
Indians GM Chris Antonetti doesn't seem to have any regrets over acquiring Ubaldo Jimenez from the Rockies in last year's trade, based on what he told Paul Hoynes of The Plain Dealer. "Ubaldo's results continue to be inconsistent. His work, his preparation and his commitment hasn't wavered. He's worked tirelessly to solidify his mechanics with [pitching coach] Scott Radinsky, it just hasn't clicked consistently every five days. ... With the work he's put in, I believe we'll see more consistency."

MLBTR's Dan Mennella contributed to this post.

Sabtu, 19 Mei 2012

Oswalt Worked Out For Phillies, Red Sox

« Nolan Ryan Expects Hamilton To Test Free Agency | Main | Giants Sign Brad Penny »

8:14pm: Scott Miller of CBSSports.com hears that Oswalt already has several "very nice offers" on the table, though it's unclear which teams presented them.

3:53pm: The Angels haven't had anyone watch Oswalt throw near his Mississippi home recently, Alden Gonzalez of MLB.com tweets.

11:48am: Rosenthal reports (on Twitter) that neither the Yankees or Tigers are in the mix for Oswalt at this time. The righty intends to sign soon, possibly within the week, and pitch in MLB by mid or late June, Rosenthal tweets.

11:19am: The Phillies and Red Sox occupy last place in their respective divisions, but both teams are eyeing midseason reinforcements. Free agent right-hander Roy Oswalt threw a bullpen session for the Phillies last week and worked out for the Red Sox this week, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports (all Twitter links).

Oswalt is also throwing for two unknown teams, Rosenthal reports. Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com hears from someone who expects Oswalt to return within a month (Twitter link).

The Phillies, winners of five consecutive games, are familiar to Oswalt, who pitched for Philadelphia in 2010 and 2011. The Red Sox, who have won six of their last seven games, expressed interest in Oswalt last offseason after the Phillies declined his 2012 option. The 34-year-old appeared to be in good shape during his workouts but was not yet in midseason form, Rosenthal reports. Bob Garber of Select Sports Group represents Oswalt.

Mike Axisa contributed to this post.

Giants Sign Brad Penny

« Oswalt Worked Out For Phillies, Red Sox | Main | NL Links: Braves, Mets, Oswalt, Dodgers, Wood »

The Giants have signed Brad Penny to a minor league contract reports John Shea of The San Francisco Chronicle (on Twitter). The Legacy Sports Group client will head to Extended Spring Training next week and is considered a bullpen candidate.

Penny, 33, threw for GM Brian Sabean, manager Bruce Bochy, and pitching coach Dave Righetti today according to Shea (on Twitter). The right-hander started the year with the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks but requested his release after just one start. Penny pitched to a 5.30 ERA in 31 starts for the Tigers last season and spent the second half of 2009 with the Giants, posting a 2.59 ERA in six starts.

NL Links: Braves, Mets, Oswalt, Dodgers, Wood

« Giants Sign Brad Penny | Main

Here are some links from the National League as the Cardinals and Dodgers play baseball's only intra-league game of the night...

Dave O'Brien of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution hears the Braves have not ruled out signing Roy Oswalt, but he assumes their interest depends on the price (Twitter link). Oswalt has begun auditioning for teams.
The Mets, meanwhile, are not in the running for Oswalt according to Adam Rubin of ESPN New York.
Steve Dilbeck of The Los Angeles Times praises Dodgers GM Ned Colletti for his job building the team that owns baseball's best record.
The Reds tried to sign Kerry Wood this offseason, manager Dusty Baker told John Fay of The Cincinnati Enquirer (Twitter link). "But he loves Chicago, and Chicago loves him," said Baker.
The Cubs will announce Wood's new position with the team tomorrow, reports Paul Sullivan of The Chicago Tribune (on Twitter). He's expected to become a special assistant.
After Wood announced his retirement today, Baseball America compiled some old scouting reports from his days as a prospect. "Scouts say Wood is so advanced that he should be ready for the big leagues faster than all but one or two college pitchers," said the publication when Wood was a high school senior in June 1995, less than three years before he made his big league debut.

Jumat, 18 Mei 2012

Beat The Expert With DraftStreet (Sponsored Post)

« Quick Hits: Lind, Gomes, Chapman, Votto | Main | Franchise Notes: Padres, Athletics »

Bring your A game: DraftStreet is offering $2000 in cash prizes for an exclusive "beat the expert" MLBTR/DraftStreet league using Friday night's MLB games. The entry fee is $11, but DraftStreet is raising the pressure on me (Tim Dierkes) by offering $10 back to anyone who beats my team, separate from the regular prize pool.

The beat the expert contest is for Friday night's games (the afternoon Cubs-White Sox game is not included), so you have until 6:00pm central time to create your team. However, there are only 200 slots in this league, so sign up early.

You're given a $100K salary cap, and each player is assigned a price by DraftStreet. For Friday, Justin Verlander is considered the most valuable player since he starts against the Pirates, but he'll cost you over $20K. Your roster will cover these positions: C, 1B, 2B, 3B, SS, 3 OF, 2 utility, 2 SP, 1 RP, 1 P and 2 Reserves (14 starters). You get points based on how your team performs Friday. For example, you'll get 0.75 points for each strikeout Verlander racks up and 1.5 points if he gets the win. The teams with the most points get the prize money. You can apply all kinds of strategy in building your roster, but since we're in direct competition this time I won't divulge my secrets. Here's my roster in the beginning stages:

Draftstreet

Be sure to sign up as soon as possible, before the 200 slots are all taken. DraftStreet has raised the stakes by putting my fantasy baseball reputation on the line; are you up to the challenge?

Quick Hits: Lind, Gomes, Chapman, Votto

« NL Links: Giants, Diamondbacks, Mets, DeWitt | Main | Beat The Expert With DraftStreet (Sponsored Post) »

The Blue Jays optioned the struggling Adam Lind to Triple-A earlier today. The 28-year-old has hit just .238/.289/.420 in nearly 1,300 plate appearances since signing his four-year, $18MM contract extension in April of 2010. Toronto recalled Yan Gomes to take Lind's roster spot, and tonight he became the first first Brazilian-born player in baseball history. Here's the latest from around the league...

Richard Griffin of The Toronto Star notes (on Twitter) that the Blue Jays would not have been able to option Lind after June 29th, when he would have accrued enough service time (five years) to decline an optional assignment.
'The longer we go, it will be harder to stretch (Aroldis Chapman) to start,' said Reds GM Walt Jocketty to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. Chapman has not allowed a run in 20 1/3 innings this season with 34 strikeouts and seven walks. 'We may be resigned to the fact that he will have to pitch in the bullpen all year," adde the GM.
Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com spoke to Reds manager Dusty Baker about the difference between signing a huge contract with a new team (like Albert Pujols) and signing a huge deal with your current team (like Joey Votto). "You get more tolerance," he said, referring to the slow starts each player has endured.

Franchise Notes: Padres, Athletics

« Beat The Expert With DraftStreet (Sponsored Post) | Main

Here's the latest on the upcoming sale of one California team and the possible relocation of another...

MLB has vetted five possible ownership groups for the Padres and the sale of the team could be complete in weeks if not months, Dan Hayes of the North County Times reports. Some of the groups that had interest in buying the Dodgers also appear to have interest in the Padres, which has sped the process up. Some estimate that the Padres will sell for $600-700MM.
Athletics owner Lew Wolff told the San Francisco Chronicle that he doesn't intend to leave the Bay Area. Wolff believes that "there is only one location that'll provide [the A's with] a badly needed new venue, and that location is ... in downtown San Jose." Bud Selig established a committee to examine the Athletics' situation in 2009, but the commissioner said yesterday that there's no timetable for resolution.
The time has come for Wolff to start firing off lawsuits in an attempt to move the Athletics to San Jose or sell the team, ESPN.com's Buster Olney tweets.

Kamis, 17 Mei 2012

Minor Moves: Zavada, DeWitt, Cubs, Diamondbacks

« Quick Hits: Reds, Youkilis, Angels, Beltran, Orioles | Main

Today's minor moves..

The Cardinals have signed Clay Zavada to a minor league contract and released left-hander R.J. Swindle, according to the Pacific Coast League's transactions page. Zavada, 27, was recently let go by the Reds.
Cubs infielder Blake DeWitt cleared waivers and has been outrighted to Triple-A Iowa, tweets Carrie Muskat of MLB.com. The Cubs designated the 26-year-old for assignment ten days ago. Across parts of five big league seasons, DeWitt owns a .257/.324/.380 slash line.
The Diamondbacks outrighted minor league outfielder David Winfree to remove him from the 40-man roster, tweets Steve Gilbert of MLB.com. Winfree, 26, has hit .285/.331/.476 in four Triple-A seasons.

Phillies Not Prioritizing Roy Oswalt

« Mets Designate D.J. Carrasco For Assignment | Main | Quick Hits: Reds, Youkilis, Angels, Beltran, Orioles »

The placement of Vance Worley on the disabled list got some talking about the Phillies' lack of depth and Roy Oswalt potentially returning. However, General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. isn't looking to sign the veteran anytime soon, writes Todd Zolecki of MLB.com.

'We think he's throwing,' Amaro Jr. said. 'I guess he is. But right now what I'm worried about is our team playing better. That's my focus right now. I feel comfortable with the starters we have. If we get to the point where we're not comfortable with him then that might be something we explore. But I will tell you that right now I'm happy with our guys the way we are right now, unless something changes. I think we've got other fish to fry right now.'

The money that could be spent on the 34-year-old could also be allocated towards acquisitions via trade, but the Phillies have yet to determine whether they will be buyers or sellers. Fellow pitcher Jake Peavy recently gave Oswalt his endorsement, telling Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports that he'll be ready to contribute this year.

Quick Hits: Reds, Youkilis, Angels, Beltran, Orioles

« Phillies Not Prioritizing Roy Oswalt | Main | Minor Moves: Zavada, DeWitt, Cubs, Diamondbacks »

Links from around baseball as Wednesday becomes Thursday..

The Reds are not seeking outside help at third base with Scott Rolen on the disabled list, writes John Fay of the Cincinnati Inquirer. General Manager Walt Jocketty also said that he hasn't had discussions with the Red Sox, shooting down any speculation that the club might have interest in Kevin Youkilis.
Angels manager Mike Scioscia wouldn't go into much detail about the firing of hitting coach Mickey Hatcher, but it clearly wasn't his choice, tweets Alden Gonzalez of MLB.com. "Obviously the GM's position is to try to make changes, whether it's personnel or staffing, that he believes is going to help us [get] better, and we have to respect that," said the skipper.
Carlos Beltran didn't feel that the Giants made a strong effort to re-sign him last season even though the club knew that he liked playing in San Francisco, according to Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle (Twitter links). However, the team did talk with agent Dan Lozano in generalities, Schulman tweets.
Peter Schmuck of The Baltimore Sun hopes that the Orioles will spend the money necessary to keep Matt Wieters and Adam Jones in the fold despite the team's bad luck with hefty contracts in the past.
In a piece for Deadspin, Craig Fehrman gives an inside look at the Atlantic League's Bridgeport Bluefish.