MLB 2005-2006 Offseason Thread

[YOUR Hero]

They can't afford to let him go. At least not look like they tried to re-sign him. A team that wins a championship must do everything they can to defend. At least that's the common wisdom.

[VonErich Lives]

Originally Posted by The Miz Konerko has been offered 4 years, $13 million per by Chicago as an initial offer. Waaaay too much.

based on what?

he's easly a 30hr/100rbi hitter. career .279, take away his early years and injuries, he's probably around .290

in todays market 13mil for those stats at age 29...

Dunno, doesn't seem that far off...

[The Miz]

$52 mil is too much for anyone's initial offer.

And uhh apparently the Mariners are about to sign Kenji Jojima to a 2 year 8 mil per deal. Already?

[VonErich Lives]

Originally Posted by The Miz $52 mil is too much for anyone's initial offer.

just so I'm clear, anyone as in any team to offer him, or anyone as in any player?

Given, we wont see a Manny or A-rod deal for awhile (if we do, baseball owners should just be shot for being stupid, you can't cry poor mouth and then sign guys for 20mil a year).

I think in the current market, especially with his age and recent power #'s, that sounds about right for him, plus although he's said money wont be the top decider, the white sox know the Red Sox will probably make a run at him.

[BCWWF]

Maybe I'm remembering wrong, but it seems like Konerko has always been good, but never seems to play a full season. Is that right?

[Joey Slugs]

Wednesday, November 9
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Bret Boone Twins	Cardinals?	Comeback story? Nov 9 - Bret Boone traveled to the general managers' meetings in Indian Wells, Calif., and had a sit-down Wednesday with St. Louis GM Walt Jocketty, ESPN.com Insider Jerry Crasnick reports. The Cardinals could have an opening at second base if they don't re-sign free agent Mark Grudzielanek. Boone, 36, made $9 million last year in Seattle. But he said he has no problems signing a contract for a low base salary with incentives. He has to prove himself again after hitting .221 with seven homers in 326 at-bats for the Mariners and Twins last season. "As far as teams and where I'm going, that's really the last thing on my mind," Boone told ESPN.com. "I'm in a situation where I've never been in my career. I'm just thinking about getting my mind, my swing and my body right to go out there and have the best year I can have."
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Jorge Posada Yankees		Pricy catch Nov 9 - Looking to cut their payroll, the Yankees are trying to gauge interest in catcher Jorge Posada and his bulky contract, the New York Daily News reports. The 34-year-old Posada will make $8 million next season. And if he starts 81 games at catcher, a clause in his contract guarantees a $12 million option for 2007.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Danys Baez Devil Rays	Mets?	Minaya catching some Rays Nov 9 - Mets GM Omar Minaya is working on a potential trade with the Devil Rays for closer Danys Baez and first baseman Aubrey Huff, the New York Daily News reports. A D-Rays exec at the GM meetings in Indian Wells, Calif, told the newspaper that Minaya initiated discussions about a deal for Baez or Huff, or both.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Kevin Mench Rangers	Royals	Mench-ionable Nov 9 - According to The Kansas City Star, the Rangers are finally willing to consider offers for outfielder Kevin Mench, a prize the Royals have coveted for some time. "We're not shopping him, but we're not going to turn a deaf ear to listening to ways to make our club better," Rangers GM Jon Daniels told the newspaper. The Royals reportedly are offering left-hander Jeremy Affeldt as part of a deal that could include other players.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Jacque Jones Twins	Padres	Keeping up with Jones Nov 9 - The Padres are exploring Jacque Jones as an option in the outfield if they can't re-sign Brian Giles, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports. "They've got quite a bit of interest," said Jones' agent, Rick Thurman, told the newspaper. "A lot of it depends on Giles. Jacque is interested. San Diego is his home base."
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Tim Worrell Diamondbacks	Diamondbacks	That cut hurts Nov 9 - Reliever Tim Worrell isn't thrilled with the Diamondbacks' offer to re-sign him for $1 million for 2006, The Arizona Republic reports. "I know that's a lot of money in the real world," Worrell told the newspaper. "But I don't live in the real world. I live in this crazy, stupid world of baseball, where things are different, and in the end, I don't think I should have to take a pay cut of two-thirds of my salary last year." Worrell made $3 million in 2005.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Kevin Millwood Indians		High five Nov 9 - Agent Scott Boras reportedly wants a five-year deal for right-handed starter Kevin Millwood, The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. The Indians are willing to make a three-year offer, possibly four, but not five.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Brian Fuentes Rockies		Relief appearance Nov 9 - Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd on Tuesday stepped away from the general managers' meetings to have an initial talk with Brian Fuentes' agent, Rick Thurman, about a two-year deal with a possible option for the reliever, the Rocky Mountain News reports.

[Joey Slugs]

Thursday, November 10
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Manny Ramirez Red Sox	Mets? Angels?	Manny rivers to cross Nov 10 - Manny Ramirez's agent, Greg Genske, met with Red Sox CEO Larry Lucchino and team chairman Tom Werner at the GM meetings, and the team agreed to explore trade options, the Boston Globe reports. According to the Orange Country Register, Genske presented Lucchino and Werner with a list of teams Ramirez would agree to join. The list is believed to include the Angels, Diamondbacks, Indians and Mets. Manny told owner John Henry he wanted a trade or he would not report to spring training, but keeping the slugger also remains an option for the Sox. "Larry said we'll explore it," Werner told the newspaper. "I wouldn't be surprised if we conclude that it's best for the Boston Red Sox to retain his services." According to the Boston Herald, a source said the Mets have received indications that Manny may indeed want to play close to his hometown and that any reports to the contrary were merely a "smokescreen." A deal for Manny would reportedly include center fielder Mike Cameron and two of three prospects: outfielder Lastings Milledge and right-handed pitchers Aaron Heilman and Yusmeiro Petit. The Herald says such deal would rule out the possibility of re-signing free agent center fielder Johnny Damon. The Los Angeles Times reported recently that the Angels were trying to find a way to acquire Ramirez, and trade talks could expand to include the Diamondbacks. Boston would get Arizona third baseman Troy Glaus and Anaheim first baseman/center fielder Darin Erstad in a potential three-team deal; the D-Backs also would receive additional players and prospects. As a 10-5 player, he has the veteran right to block a trade to a team he doesn't want to join.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Boston		That was then ... Nov 10 - Don't expect Theo Epstein to return to the Red Sox as GM -- despite wide speculation that he might. According to the Boston Globe, the team is moving on without him. "I have read all the rumors," team chairman Tom Werner told the newspaper. "But as far as we're concerned, we're turning the page and we're looking for the next general manager of the Red Sox. Werner and CEO Larry Lucchino interviewed three candidates for the job Wednesday: Nationals GM Jim Bowden, Braves assistant GM Dayton Moore and Twins assistant GM Wayne Krivsky. They will interview former Montreal and Balitmore GM Jim Beattie on Friday. The Sox reportedly have not asked for permission to interview Dodgers assistant GM Kim Ng. And two candidates -- Indians assistant GM Chris Antonetti and Tony LaCava, Toronto's director of player personnel -- were granted permission to interview but declined.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Alfonso Soriano Rangers	Dodgers? Mets	So, what would it take ... Nov 10 - Texas second baseman Alfonso Soriano, who will be a free agent after next season, has been discussed in Dodger circles, and is available, the Los Angeles Times reports. The Mets also are looking to add a powerful middle-of-the-order bat to their lineup and have spoken to the Rangers about Soriano, The New York Times reports.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Nomar Garciaparra Cubs	Dodgers?	Blue blood Nov 10 - The Dodgers planned to speak to Arn Tellem, the agent for shortstop Nomar Garciaparra, before the end of the GM meetings, the Los Angeles Times reports. Garciaparra is unlikely to return to the Cubs in 2006 but would be willing to play third base for the Dodgers.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
A.J. Burnett Marlins	Mets? Mariners Blue Jays Rangers? Red Sox? Orioles?	Big Apple of their eye Nov 10 - Despite having an abundance of starters, the Mets want to upgrade their rotation and are considering A.J. Burnett, Newsday reports. Mets GM Omar Minaya and his staff met with Darek Braunecker and Mark Rodgers, the representatives for Burnett on Wednesday. Burnett is looking for a five-year deal, and interest remains high in a weak market for starters. "I can tell you, 70 percent of the teams in baseball have contacted us about A.J.," Braunecker told ESPN Insider Jerry Crasnick. "It's certainly nice to be him right now." Burnett came away impressed after a visit to Toronto, during which he met with Blue Jays officials and ace starter Roy Halladay. Former Jays pitcher Pat Hentgen even drove up from Michigan to help with the recruiting effort. But Braunecker said the process is "wide open," and it's too early to label Toronto the frontrunner. Burnett plans to visit selected cities where there's an interest -- Seattle, for instance. But he expects to take a more low-key approach to free-agency than former teammate Carl Pavano, who parlayed a nationwide tour into a four-year, $40 million deal with the Yankees last winter.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Billy Wagner Phillies	Phillies? Cubs? Mets?	Shea it is so? Nov 10 - Billy Wagner's chances of landing with the Mets are looking up after he received a low offer from the Phillies, the New York Daily News reports. The left-handed closer is the Mets' top priority in the free-agent market, and his rift with Philly may afford them the chance to sign him. The last standing offer to Wagner was for two years with a vesting third based on appearances, and well below the $10 million per season he is likely to be offered by other clubs, including the Mets. Wagner will not accept any offer for fewer than three seasons. "I can't imagine why they wouldn't have already gone to three years," Wagner told the Philadelphia Inquirer of the Phillies' offer. "I can understand not wanting to do a full no-trade clause, but I can't understand why they're not going three years. I'm surprised."
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Paul Konerko White Sox	Angels Red Sox White Sox	Let the bidding begin Nov 10 - The White Sox made the first move in trying to get Paul Konerko back, offering him a four-year, $52 million deal, the Daily Southtown reports. But Konerko is intent on finding out how much he's worth on the open market. ESPN.com Insider Jerry Crasnick reports that Boston's front office contingent met Tuesday with Craig Landis, Konerko's representative. Boston is looking to upgrade at the first-base position, where Kevin Millar and John Olerud combined for 16 homers and 76 RBI in 515 at-bats last season.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Bob Howry Indians	Phillies? Tigers Brewers Indians Mets Rangers	The setup man Nov 10 - Bob Howry is looking for a three-year deal worth between $10.5 million and $12 million, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. The Indians considered making Howry a two-year offer for an estimated $7.5 million, but agent Craig Landis thinks his client can get a better deal. The Brewers are interested in Howry as a setup man for Derrick Turnbow, who saved 39 games last season, and Milwaukee GM Doug Melvin met with Howry's agents Tuesday in Indian Wells, Calif., ESPN.com Insider Jerry Crasnick reports. Howry went 7-4 with a 2.47 ERA and held AL hitters to a .191 average last season in Cleveland. He could step in as the Indians' closer in 2006 if Bob Wickman doesn't return, but the Indians are hesitant to give Howry the three-year contract he desires. Landis said about 75 percent of the teams interested in Howry want him to pitch primarily in the eighth inning. The other 25 percent have expressed a willingness to let him compete for a closer's job.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Milton Bradley Dodgers		No takers Nov 10 - According to the Los Angeles Times, the Dodgers have offered Milton Bradley to almost every team they've met with and continue to find resistance because of his volatile history. If the Dodgers can't trade Bradley, they aren't expected to tender him a contract by Dec. 20, making him a free agent, the New York Post reports.

[Joey Slugs]

WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Washington		Enough is enough Nov 10 - According to the Washington Post, Frank Robinson is getting fed up with Major League Baseball's slow movement toward resolution of the Washington ownership. Bud Selig said Wednesday the team will not be sold to a new owner in the next two weeks. "It's not fair to this ballclub and this organization to be put in this position for the coming season because we're behind on moves and things we can do and approaching players, the free-agent market, either signing free agents or even really seriously talking to them," Robinson told the newspaper. "Just overall, the feeling and the atmosphere around this ballclub is that we're at a disadvantage." For now, GM Jim Bowden is working with a budget of about $60 million.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Trevor Hoffman Padres	Mets	Welcome to New York? Nov 10 - Trevor Hoffman's days as Padres closer might be over. When the Padres offered him only a two-year deal, $10-million deal (half of what he believes he is worth), Hoffman cleaned out his locker at Petco Park, the New York Daily News reports. The Mets met twice on Tuesday with Hoffman's agent, Rick Thurman, and were scheduled to speak with him again this week. The right-hander, who is 42 saves shy of the all-time lead, could switch coasts if New York doesn't get Billy Wagner. "He would definitely go to the Mets," Thurman told the newspaper. "They are committed to winning with a first-class team and Trevor wants to be with a team in contention."
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
David Riske Indians	Rangers?	Swap meet Nov 10 - According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Rangers and Indians have been talking trade. Texas needs a reliever and outfielder, and has expressed interest in setup man David Riske and left fielder Coco Crisp. The Indians also may have some interest in first-base prospect Adrian Gonzalez, who's stuck behind Mark Teixeira. Gonzalez hit .227 (34-for-150) with six homers and 17 RBI in a brief trial with the Rangers last season.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Odalis Perez Dodgers		Trade bait Nov 10 - Odalis Perez could be changing homes. According to the Los Angeles, the Dodgers are offering the left-hander in potential trades that would require them to give up a starting pitcher.

[Joey Slugs]

Friday, November 11
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Lyle Overbay Brewers	Dodgers? Pirates? Twins? Mets? Red Sox?	Brewers fielding offers for Overbay Nov 11 - Brewers GM Doug Melvin said there was a "good level of interest" in Overbay among other clubs at the GM meetings in Indian Wells, Calif. The Brewers have the luxury of fielding offers for Overbay, who hit .276 with 19 homers and 72 RBI this season, now that top prospect Prince Fielder is closing in on a big-league job. But Melvin told ESPN.com Insider Jerry Crasnick that the Brewers aren't averse to having Fielder begin next season in Triple-A ball. "There have been some pretty interesting proposals (for Overbay)," Melvin said, "but nothing to take me over the edge yet. I think there's a high percentage of chance that he'll be back with us."
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Johnny Damon Red Sox	Red Sox? Yankees? Cubs?	Damon offer? Nov 11 - The Red Sox on Thursday made an offer to one of their free agents, and the Boston Herald believes it was Johnny Damon. The Red Sox's Jed Hoyer did not comment when asked if Damon was the free agent receiving an offer. Damon is believed to be asking for at least a four-year deal from the Red Sox.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Carlos Delgado Marlins	Orioles? Mariners? Mets?	Big Fish Nov 11 - Three teams at the GM meetings -- the Orioles, Mariners and Mets -- expressed interest in first baseman Carlos Delgado, the Palm Beach Post reports. The Marlins would prefer to trade Delgado to an American League team, the newspaper suggests. He is owed $48 million over the next three years.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Hideki Matsui Yankees		Enough respect for Matsui? Nov 11 - The Yankees are prepared to make Hideki Matsui a sizeable offer: four years at $11-12 million per season, The New York Post reports. "It's rather simple: [Matsui] is either going to be with us, or he won't," GM Brian Cashman told the newspaper. "And there are other choices in the event we don't have him." Cashman is also talking with free-agent outfielder Brian Giles.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Javier Vazquez Diamondbacks		Vazquez requests trade Nov 11 - Arizona ace Javier Vazquez formally asked the Diamondbacks to trade him Thursday night, preferably to a team east of the Mountain Time Zone, ESPN.com's Jayson Stark reports. Even though Vazquez is owed $11.5 million next year and $12.5 million in 2007, the Diamondbacks would be likely to have a long list of potential bidders for a 29-year-old right-hander who has averaged 206 innings a season for the last six years. Among teams that figure to be interested: the Mets, Marlins, Red Sox, Phillies, Blue Jays, Tigers and Cardinals.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Bernie Williams Yankees	Yankees	A Bronx tale revisited? Nov 11 - Even though the Yankees are shopping for Bernie Williams' replacement, the veteran switch-hitter still could return to the pinstripes, The New York Daily News reports. GM Brian Cashman has yet to met with Williams' agent, Scott Boras, but there have been indications that Williams could be amenable to accepting a fourth outfielder/DH role.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Bengie Molina Angels	Yankees? Mets	Dream catching Nov 11 - The Mets have targeted Bengie Molina to replace Mike Piazza at catcher. According to The New York Daily News, GM Omar Minaya and aide Tony Bernazard planned go to Yuma, Ariz., to meet face-to-face with Molina in a "getting to know you" session. The teams wasn't expected to make an offer yet. Molina, who has spent his entire career with the Angels, is coming off his best season and is one of the best-available catchers in free agency. He hit .295 with 15 home runs and 69 RBI and threw out 31 percent of all runners who attempted to steal against him.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Kenji Jojima	Yankees Padres Mets Mariners	Catch-22 Nov 11 - The Mariners are Kenji Jojima's first choice, but the team is reluctant to sign him at the numbers (three years, $16-$18 million) floated by his representatives, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports. While the M's need catching help, pitching and left-handed power are their top priorities. "It's far down the list," a club source told the newspaper. "We have more pressing needs. To go out and get a catcher now, before signing a pitcher, wouldn't be prudent." The Padres, Mets and Yankees also are looking at Jojima, 29, who could become the major leagues' first Japanese catcher. In seven seasons with the Fukuoka Hawks, he batted .299 with averages of 30 home runs and 100 RBI, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

[Joey Slugs]

WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Rafael Furcal Braves	Cubs Mets	The sales pitch Nov 11 - Cubs infielder Neifi Perez is recruiting friend Rafael Furcal, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. Perez telephoned Furcal on Monday. "I told him I would be happy if he comes to the Cubs, because I know what he can do to help the team win," Perez told the newspaper. Furcal's agent, Paul Kinzer, is seeking a five-year contract at $10 million per season.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
David Wells Red Sox	Padres?	Welcome back, Boomer? Nov 11 - David Wells, who has one year remaining on his current contract with the Red Sox, wants to be moved to California (where he grew up), and his ideal destination is San Diego, where he played in 2004, The New York Daily News reports. The Sox and Padres have discussed a Wells trade, but talks are at a temporary standstill, the Boston Herald reports. Boston is interested in San Diego right-handed reliever Akinori Otsuka.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
B.J. Ryan Orioles	Yankees?	Ryan's song Nov 11 - Yankees GM Brian Cashman has had conversations with B.J. Ryan's agent, John Courtright, The New York Daily News reports. The Orioles' closer is expected to draw significant interest on the open market. The 29-year-old left-hander had 36 saves and a 2.43 ERA for the Orioles, striking out the 100 batters in 70 1/3 innings.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Ramon Hernandez Padres	Mets? Diamondbacks?	Leaving San Diego? Nov 11 - Hernandez is expected to depart San Diego through free agency, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. Teams likely to pursue Hernandez include the Diamondbacks and Mets. Hernandez, 29, hit .290 with 12 home runs and 58 RBI in 99 games last season. He made more than $4 million in the final year of his four-year deal.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Chien-Ming Wang Yankees		Thanks, but no thanks Nov 11 - Yankees GM Brian Cashman won't deal Chien-Ming Wang or Robinson Cano unless he's bowled over by a massive proposal, The New York Daily News reports. That hasn't stopped teams from asking. Cashman has received "numerous" inquires about the young talent, none of which has come close to being a blockbuster.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Tom Gordon Yankees	Mets?	Flash wants three years Nov 11 - According to The New York Daily News, the Yankees have had brief discussions with setup man Tom Gordon, but they are not interested in granting Gordon's wish for a three-year contract. A number of teams are interested in signing Gordon to be a closer (including the Mets), and it's generally believed Gordon will end up taking one of those offers. An official at the GM meetings told ESPN.com Insider Jerry Crasnick that Gordon wants a contract for more money than the three-year, $15.5 million deal that Ryan Dempster signed with the Cubs in early October.

[Evil Vito]

LOL a five-year deal for Millwood

....that STILL makes me crack up

[Joey Slugs]

sorry for all the insider updates, there was just alot going on in the MLB world and i haven't been around my computer much in the last few days. i'll try to only post them on the day they are released.

[The Miz]

Do the Mets think that signing 3/4 the league is going to stop them from finishing 2nd behind Atlanta's AAA team

Boy would I love the Jays to get Vazquez

[The Miz]

Vazquez wants to be as close to PR as possible, he said he'd only be traded to an east coast team but I don't think he meant back to Canada.

If I were the Jays I wouldn't want him anyway, he's sucked the last 2 years and there are much better available pitchers with the kind of money they intend of spending.

[VonErich Lives]

Originally Posted by The Miz Vazquez wants to be as close to PR as possible, he said he'd only be traded to an east coast team but I don't think he meant back to Canada. If I were the Jays I wouldn't want him anyway, he's sucked the last 2 years and there are much better available pitchers with the kind of money they intend of spending.

Sorry, gotta laugh a little here. Wish I had time to go searching.

This is the same Vazquez that when he went to the Yanks, Hero gave me a lashing because I felt he wouldn't be as good in NY, not because the "pressure" of NY, but because it's easier to pitch in the NL.. Hero told me how he's watched him and he'll be fine... etc... etc...

hmm... guess Hero was right on this one...

[The Miz]

Obviously VEL has never been wrong

[VonErich Lives]

Originally Posted by The Miz Obviously VEL has never been wrong

Nope, but I figure since everyone points out when I'm wrong, like they have never been, I should return the favor once in awhile.

[YOUR Hero]

VEL, I told you a year ago you were right about him didn't I?

I still say he's a good pitcher, but I didn't realize how much money he going to be making. I wouldn't want T.O. to spend that kind of money on him.

[VonErich Lives]

Originally Posted by YOUR Hero VEL, I told you a year ago you were right about him didn't I? I still say he's a good pitcher, but I didn't realize how much money he going to be making. I wouldn't want T.O. to spend that kind of money on him.

Yeah I know, but he had another bad year, didn't "bounce back" in Arizona..

that and it's not often you tell me I'm right and you're wrong, so I just like hearing it again

[YOUR Hero]

He didn't have that bad a year this year The wins weren't there, but he did over 200 innings, had close to 200 strike outs. Highish ERA and WHIP, yeah. He gives up way too many hits the last couple years.

I'd take him on my team, like I said, if it wasn't for the high salary he'll be commanding.

I think he's a guy that's not adapting to the fact his original 'stuff' isn't getting him the outs it used to regularly. He needs to adapt and learn new pitches. That's what I think.


His last 3 years...

Pitching
Last 3 years	Team	G	GS	W	L	SV	CG	SHO	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	K	ERA	WHIP	BAA
2003	MON	34	34	13	12	0	4	1	230.2	198	93	83	28	57	241	3.24	1.11	.229
2004	NYY	32	32	14	10	0	0	0	198.0	195	114	108	33	60	150	4.91	1.29	.255
2005	ARI	33	33	11	15	0	3	1	215.2	223	112	106	35	46	192	4.42	1.25	.266
Career		257	256	89	93	0	19	7	1643.0	1653	845	782	223	437	1418	4.28	1.27	.260

[Excellance of Execution]

A-ROD=MVP

Not to much of a surprise to me. Ortiz had a huge year, but he doesn't hardly play the field. Obviously, that was probably the deciding factor on why A-Rod got it and Ortiz didn't.

[Joey Slugs]

Monday, November 14
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Hideki Matsui Yankees		Matsui: Yanks or free agency? Nov 14 - Hideki Matsui and the Yankees will likely settle on a four-year deal worth at least $48 million that could include a fifth-year option, the New York Daily News reports. Matsui's agent, Arn Tellem, spoke with GM Brian Cashman on Sunday and is likely to meet with him on Monday. Matsui could become a free agent if a deal isn't struck before midnight Tuesday.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Billy Wagner Phillies	Mets Phillies	Mets knocking on Wagner's door Nov 14 - The Mets are willing to do whatever it takes to land Billy Wagner, even if it means adding a fourth year to the deal, the Newark Star-Ledger reports. The Mets are prepared to guarantee the 34-year-old left-handed closer $30 million over three years, an offer that could come as soon as Monday.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Los Angeles		Theo back in the game? Nov 14 - There were strong indications Sunday that the Dodgers have offered their vacant GM position to Theo Epstein, possibly with a small stake in ownership, the Los Angeles Daily News reports. If the Dodgers fail to land Epstein, the job likely will go either to San Francisco assistant GM Ned Colletti or Dodgers assistant GM Kim Ng, the newspaper reports.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Nomar Garciaparra Cubs	Dodgers?	Nomad Nomar Nov 14 - The Cubs have advised injury-plagued infielder Nomar Garciaparra to shop around, The Chicago Tribune reports. GM Jim Hendry Hendry said Garciaparra "is in a situation where he should go out and find if there is a better fit. With our situation at third, he's not going to play there, [though] he did fine when he got over there." The Cubs are pursuing free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Juan Pierre Marlins		Forget Pierre in pinstripes Nov 14 - The Marlins may trade center fielder Juan Pierre this offseason, but it won't be to the Yankees, The New York Post reports. According to the newspaper, the two teams did not have any talks about Pierre at last week's GM meetings.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Whats Clemens going to do? Be extremely sucessful in the regular season then do nothing in the post season? or just retire?

[Joey Slugs]

Saint Albert wins the NL MVP.

[Joey Slugs]

MLB, union agree to stricter drug policy
Deal bans three-time violators for life, includes amphetamines

[The Miz]

Yanks and Matsui close to a 4 year $52 mil deal

[BCWWF]

Saint Albert? You are from Chicago.

[YOUR Hero]

Originally Posted by Joey Slugs MLB, union agree to stricter drug policy Deal bans three-time violators for life, includes amphetamines

Tough policy. If they want to clean up the game, then I imagine this is a great tool to do it. Time will tell.

[VonErich Lives]

Originally Posted by YOUR Hero Tough policy. If they want to clean up the game, then I imagine this is a great tool to do it. Time will tell.

I love the "life time ban" but you can reapply after 2yrs.

It's like the old "Is this a last chance or like a Steve Howe last chance?"

[Joey Slugs]

Originally Posted by BCWWF Saint Albert? You are from Chicago.

I have a buddy of mine that lives in STL. I do believe that Saint Albert is the proper nickname.

[Joey Slugs]

Tuesday, November 15
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Mike Myers Red Sox		Myers gets pitch from Red Sox Nov 15 - The Red Sox have made an offer to reliever Mike Myers, the Boston Herald reports. The 36-year-old lefty specialist earned $600,000 last season.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Elmer Dessens Dodgers	Rockies Royals	Battle Royal Nov 15 - Kansas City appears to have outbid Colorado for starter Elmer Dessens, The Denver Post reports. The right-hander is leaning toward accepting the Royals' two-year offer, about $900,000 more than the Rockies' $2.5 million. "We were told he was heading in another direction," Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd told the newspaper.

[Joey Slugs]

Wednesday, November 16
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Mike Cameron Mets	Padres	Cameron expected to become a Padre Nov 16 - The Mets and the Padres are on the verge of a deal that would send Mike Cameron to San Diego, baseball officials told ESPN's Buster Olney on Wednesday. Other parts of the prospective deal are not known at this time, although the Mets are reportedly looking for bullpen help. The Padres nearly signed Cameron as a free agent after the 2003 season and still have a need for someone to patrol center field at Petco Park. Cameron won Gold Gloves in 2001 and 2003 playing center field for Seattle.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Reggie Sanders Cardinals		Sanders visits K.C. Nov 16 - In their quest for a power-hitting corner outfielder, Kansas City made its pitch Tuesday to Reggie Sanders, The Kansas City Star reports. The Royals will have to compete with the Cardinals, Twins, Marlins and Mariners.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Billy Wagner Phillies	Mets Phillies	Four more years! Nov 16 - What's it gonna take to lure Billy Wagner to the Mets? A four-year deal would be a great starting point. "Four years would be hard to turn down," Wagner told the Philadelphia Daily News. "The Mets are already ahead in some aspects because of the kind of team they can put on the field." The Phillies plan to meet Wagner at his Virginia home on Wednesday. The free-spending Mets will visit him early next week.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Dontrelle Willis Marlins		One-year ticket for D-Train? Nov 16 - Dontrelle Willis's big payday won't happen this offseason. His agent, Matt Sosnick, doesn't anticipate the 22-game winner working out a multiyear contract with the Marlins, The Miami Herald reports. When the two sides sit down to discuss a contract later this month, they'll likely try to work out a one-year deal for the left-hander in order to avoid arbitration.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Boston		A short short list Nov 16 - Another candidate -- the Braves' Dayton Moore -- has removed himself from the running for the Red Sox GM job, the Boston Herald reports. Only two of the four interviewed candidates -- Jim Beattie and Jim Bowden -- remain in the mix. Team president and CEO Larry Lucchino said the team is not looking at internal candidates.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Kenji Jojima	Padres Mets Mariners	Next stop: The Big Apple Nov 16 - The Mets get their chance to wine-and-dine Kenji Jojima on Friday, Newsday reports. The 29-year-old Japanese catcher, the newspaper reports, is leaning toward the Mariners. The agent for Japanese all-star catcher Kenji Jojima said Tuesday his client is not close to signing with the Mariners, one day after Jojima left Seattle following a weekend stay.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Orlando Hudson Blue Jays		Not 2B Nov 16 - Toronto has no interest in dealing Orlando Hudson to Kansas City for pitching, namely relievers Jeremy Affeldt and Mike MacDougal, The Kansas City Star reports. The Royals continue to pursue Mark Grudzielanek and Tony Graffanino but have no plans to contact Nomar Garciaparra.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
B.J. Ryan Orioles	Yankees?	Ryan Express Nov 16 - B.J. Ryan and his agent made a quick stop in Toronto earlier this week, the Toronto Star reports. GM J.P. Ricciardi said Ryan's visit amounted to "a question-and-answer session" followed by dinner in what will be a multi-city tour for the left-handed closer.
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Scott Eyre Giants		Erye demand Nov 16 - White Sox GM Ken Williams has called the agent for lefty reliever Scott Eyre, The Chicago Tribune reports. "I know the White Sox are a team Scott would be interested in," Eyre's agent, Tommy Tanzer, told the newspaper. The Yankees, Giants and Phillies called recently to express interest. Tanzer describes the Cubs' interest as "pretty serious."
WHO	INTERESTED	THE SKINNY
Jason Bay Pirates		Bay watch Nov 16 - Pirates GM Dave Littlefield said negotiations are "ongoing" on a long-term contract for left fielder Jason Bay, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. Bay, who made $355,000 last season, is not yet eligible for salary arbitration.

[RoXer]

Yeah, Cameron for Nady supposedley.

[OssMan]

Why are we looking for a first baseman

[The Miz]

There is still no blood testing.

[The Miz]

Nady for Cameron is just waiting for the results of a Cameron physical to go through. I see Nady probably being traded again as a package for someone else (Manny?) but if not I guess he'll just platoon with Mike Jacobs.

[OssMan]

So they actually did the trade. Cameron for Nady. We gave up a fast, gold glove outfielder for a younger "first baseman/outfielder" with pretty equal offensive numbers I guess. We don't really need a first baseman...I guess if Mike Jacobs struggles or we need depth in OF or something, he would help?

I barely know anything about Xavier Nady. Some one explain him to me

[The Miz]

He's 27 and like 2 years ago was one of MLB's top prospects. He hasn't lived up to his hype but he also hasn't gotten consistent playing time or a consistent position. He is an okay outfielder, a below average first baseman, and a shit third baseman. He has shown tons of power but he has also sucked bad against RHP.

[VonErich Lives]

Word is, Damons agent wants an 8year deal and the Red Sox already said "been nice knowing you"

Good defensively, Good on the bases, had a career year at bat (typically tied into being a free agent) had some injuries problems, and he's I think 32?

I'd give him 4years tops... more then that your throwing money away.