Griffey to Braves?

There is no question that the Braves will be looking for an outfielder this offseason. Their younger players are not ready to take over an everyday role and bringing in a superstar for the outfield just does not make sense when other upgrades need to be made. The Cincinnati Reds have a pretty crowded outfield and by trading Griffey would open a space for top prospect Jay Bruce. In return, the Braves could send Scott Thorman, a couple prospects and then they would have a legitimate center fielder who will hold the spot until their younger players are ready to take over. Griffey did grow up around Braves baseball because his Dad was on the team, so he is familiar with Atlanta. New GM Frank Wren has said he does not plan to throw a big contract at anyone, further backing up the scenario that Griffey could be on his way to Atlanta. “I would say that going strong in the free-agent market would be our least likely alternative,” Wren said. “I say that just because, with the young players we have coming [in the farm system], it just wouldn’t make sense to go sign somebody for four, five, six years when we have what we think are better players on the horizon. With that being said, the free-agent market probably doesn’t make as much sense as a trade. The trade market is probably the most likely way we’ll fill center field.” Now that Mike Cameron has tested positive for stimulants and will be out for the first 25 games, I do not expect the Braves to have much interest. The Braves would not only get half the contract paid for by the Reds, but would get an outfielder nearing the Hall of Fame who will fill seats for the next several seasons. Other possible destinations for Griffey include the Tigers, Cubs, and Mariners.

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Interview with Nick Swisher

Last week, White Sox outfielder Nick Swisher called me up but I was unable to talk because I had to run. When I thought I would never get my interview with Nick, who has been set up since July, he called me back up yesterday to talk with me. Swisher is currently the outfielder and first baseman for the Chicago White Sox, and will be for at least the next five seasons. He has a foundation called Swish's Wishes, and I suggest you all take a look at as the holiday's roll on in. I want to thank Joe Bick at Pro Star Management for setting this interview up for me, I really appreciate it.

ELI: You grew up around baseball because your Dad played, do you think your success can be credited to being surrounded by baseball as a kid?

NICK: Definitely. Growing up around baseball taught me about what to do and things to know. It was almost like I learned the unwritten rules of the game. Instead of little league, where most kids were playing baseball, I was with my dad in the big leagues , and it definitely taught me a lot.

ELI: You are a switch hitter, when did you learned to become one and what did you do?

NICK: The only reason was because I was solely right handed. Me and my friends were goofing around with it and at one point a Cross-checker with the Rangers said I would hit more homeruns if I switch hit. But it definitely elevated my game being able to play everyday, whether it was against a right or left handed pitcher. I'm still learning about it, but it gives me an extra dimension which a lot of people do not have.

ELI: Billy Beane is known for finding the best players under the radar, what did it do for your confidence when Beane said how much he wanted you with the A's?

NICK: Well I only care about Oakland, but when I think about them, all I can think about are the Glory Days. You know, like the Bash Brothers, Dennis Eckersley, and Ricky Henderson. They have such a reputation for having fun and bring in young guys. I'm in a great situation, with a great organization.

ELI: Have you read the book Moneyball?

NICK: Bits and pieces of it.

ELI: You're rookie season was the last year of the big three, what were Zito, Mulder, and Hudson like in the clubhouse?

NICK: They were good guys. But being a rookie, I was treated like just another rookie. I stay in touch with Zito, but those guys were good because they put Oakland back on the map. And then there our guys like Giambi who put them on the map to begin with. At the time though, they were three young studs.

ELI: What was the draft experience like for you? What were your thoughts coming into the draft?

NICK: The biggest thing with the draft was that so many people said so many things. I was projected to go between the 2nd and 4th round. To be drafted in the first round, like my dad, was absolutely amazing. I feel like people work their whole life to get to a certain point, and that point for me was right there. I got a call in the morning and I was jumping around. My dad came running down stairs in his robe and we exchanged a big chest bump. I think it is impressive that both my dad and I were taken in the first round. It is and experience I can share with my dad, and no one can ever take it away from us.

ELI: Can you tell me about your foundation?

NICK: It is called Swish's Wishes. I started it after I signed my five year extension with the A's. I didn't really know what to do, but Kathy Jacobson was great and helped me a lot. I did not really want to focus in on one charity because I would like to help everyone, so I work with a lot of charities. We have raised 75-80,000 dollars, donating 20,000 of it to the Oakland A's Fund. It is a non-profit organization that helps under privileged children.

ELI: Bob Geren was a new manager this year for the A's, what was he like?

NICK: He was very laid back and likes to have fun. He dealt with over fifty players this year, and that is a lot, especially for a rookie manager. I think he did a great job.

ELI: You play a couple positions, what would you say is your natural position?

NICK: First base. I'm playing outfield a little bit but I am still figuring it out. Daric Barton is on the rise at first base and I am more than happy to make the move to make room. Again, it gives me an extra dimension to play multiple positions.

ELI: I hear you play some video games, what is in the system right now?

NICK: Well, me and a friend beat Halo-3 last night. And I'll probably play some games with my brother this week.

ELI: You know, I do not think there has been a good baseball game in awhile.

NICK: Yeah, I have one right now, but I have not played it enough to give you a full analysis [Laughs]. For me, it is cool that I can go on and play and not have to create myself, I can just play. But I know some guys at EA Sports and I am sure they will come up with something good for next season.

ELI: If there is one player on the A's who would be sleeping in the dugout during the game, who would it be?

NICK: Oh man, who would it be? I'd have to say Joe Blanton [Laughs]. I can just see him right now with his sun glasses on asleep on in the dugout [Laughs]. I can definitely see him doing that.

ELI: If you could face one pitcher in the past, who would it be?

NICK: Probably Bob Gibson. His stuff was so nasty and overpowering that it would be fun. Scary but fun.

ELI: You worked out really hard following the 2005 season and it showed in 2006, did your output motivate you to work even harder coming into this season?

NICK: The biggest thing as a player is you always want to get better. And to be honest, it is harder every time. When pitchers figure you out and begin to pound your weaknesses, you have to adjust or there is nothing you can do. I have so much respect for the guys that can go and do it every year. Pujols, Ortiz, Ramirez-all those guys are where I would like to be at where I can go out and hit consistently.

ELI: Do you follow baseball during the offseason?

NICK: Yeah, but it is on and off. Everyone needs a break and the offseason is my break from it.

ELI: Where do you see the A's upgrading this off season?

NICK: Getting some guys in the bullpen probably. But we have the best GM in the world, and I am behind him, and the whole front office 110%.

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If Rowand Walks, Don't Expect Much

If Rowand walks, don't expect them to bring in Torii Hunter or anything. According to a source at Philly.com, he expects the Phillies to move Shane Victorino to center, and platoon Werth and Dobbs in right field. Werth and Dobbs put up good numbers and both are still young. I think Victorino could hold his own in center fielder, but he is no Aaron Rowand. The Phillies would love to keep Rowand, but I see them looking to upgrade pitching and at third base. The Rockies are the most obvious choice because both Brian Fuentes and Garrett Atkins are available. I see the Philles as one of the more proactive teams this offseason, but will probably go through trades more than looking at free agents.

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Reagins Wants A-Rod

Now that the Bill Stoneman era is over, the Angels are gearing up for a big run at Alex Rodriguez. Tony Reagins has said he has talked with Scott Boras concerning Rodriguez, and plans to talk with him again. The Angels do have money, and will get even more money from the MLB because of their success. According to Buster Olney, the Angels and every other team in the league will receive up to thirty million dollars from the MLB. Other than the Angels, I expect the Giants, Dodgers, and Mets to be interested. If the Angels confirm that they will go after A-Rod, that definitely makes them the front-runner because not only are they in the AL, where he has played his whole career, but they are a solid team who is missing that little piece that puts them above the top. Obviously, Boras will try and sell whatever he can to get more teams interested, and that's why I think this is far from over.

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Todd Jones to Atlanta?

The Tigers have expressed interest in Todd Jones, but do not seem to have any problems letting him walk. "Unless the Braves have interest, the next (likely) spot to come to is here,"Dombrowski said. "Unless it's an offer he can't refuse, we would like to talk." Jones, 39, lives in Alabama and could take over the closer spot next season for the Braves. It seems the Tigers are ready to give their spot to Joel Zumaya, so Jones is probably gone. Jones was 1-4 with a 4.26 ERA and 38 SV this season, and could put up similar if not better numbers with a NL team like the Braves. The Tigers plan to give Jones a one year contract, but if it is similar to what Atlanta or another team may offer, he may walk to be guaranteed a closer spot.

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Halloween Grumblings

Mets Evaluate Rodriguez: I do not think this is a good move on Minaya's part. The team held the division the whole season but it fell into a slump at the worst time. A-Rod I'm sure would be great, but would they then move Wright to second? What they should be doing is signing or trading for legitimate pitchers to back that rotation. If they do sign A-Rod, they should trade Carlos Delgado and move Wright across the diamond. Yes, Delgado is making a lot of money, but absorbing some of his contract and trading for some prospects would be beneficial.

Chacon To Test Market: Shawn Chacon filed for free agency yesterday, probably ending his time with the Pirates. He was used mostly in relief last season going 5-4 with a 3.94 ERA and 79 K. He has been used as a starter for parts of his career but has been more effective as a long reliever. I think the Pirates would like him back in that role, maybe as a spot starter. If the Pirates are not interested, look to see the Royals, Blue Jays, and maybe the Diamondbacks make a run for him.

LaTroy Hawkins Wants to be Back: Reliever LaTroy Hawkins, who was thought to have been out of baseball, reemerged and established himself as a big league reliever. Although his option was declined, he had a great year for the Rockies and performed in the playoffs. He is eager to be back with the Rockies, and I expect them to resign him. If he isn't resigned, I expect the Mariners to be interested.

Quirk, Farrell Lead Pack of Candidates: The Pirates can now begin interviewing for managers and it starts with the favorite, Red Sox pitching coach John Farrell. However, if the Red Sox do not give permission to interview or he is not interested, Jamie Quirk, the Rockies bench coach, could take over. Dave Holliday is expected to take over the Farm Director position with the Pirates, making it likely that Quirk might be selected. However, how could you not go with Farrell, who developed such pitchers mechanics as Clay Buchholz, Daisuke Matsuzaka, and Hideki Okajima and won a World Series?

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Torre Signs With Dodgers

Now it is official. The Dodgers and Joe Torre have agreed to a three year deal worth 14.5 million dollars. Torre rejected a one year deal, worth 5 million dollars with incentives from the Yankees and intially, it looked like he would take the year off and take the Braves job in 2009. But with the resignation of Grady Little for "personal reasons," he is back in the dugout. According to MLB Rumors correspondent Thomas Reiss, Torre is expected to bring Don Mattingly and Kevin Long over for his staff. Mattingly will be bench coach and Long with be the hitting coach. Mattingly is almost a guarantee to join the team because his son is just a couple years away from the Dodgers. Torre won four World Series with the Yankees and hopes to bring his past success over with him.

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Riske To Test Market

Royals pitcher David Riske filed for free agency today, and he is set to cash in elsewhere. Riske had a great year for the Royals this season going 1-4 with a 2.45 ERA and 52 K. Not only has Riske not had an ERA over four since 2002, but in 2001 his ERA was 1.98. He is a very consistent pitcher who will probably get a similar deal to what Scott Eyre got. Riske is just 31, and will probably get a three year deal, worth 12 million dollars. I expect the Phillies and Devil Rays to be interested, but see the Phillies coming on top because it seems that after pitching for the Royals, he would love to go to a contender. However, if the Red Sox miss out on some relievers they try to sign initially, Riske would be a great option because of how effective he is, and his experience in the AL makes him attractive to the Red Sox.

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Astros Looking At Hunter, Rowand

The Astros have put in calls to free agents Torii Hunter and Aaron Rowand expressing their interest, hoping to talk with them when the exclusive negotiating rights ends. "[Assistant GM] David [Gottfried] talked to their agents this afternoon," Wade said. "Just general calls that we may have interest. We'll get back and talk at the appropriate time." The Astros are expected to be very active this offseason, and it wouldn't surprise me if they talk with the Orioles about Miguel Tejada. Hunter, who has a home in Texas, has said the Rangers are on his list, and it would make sense that the Astros would interest him as well. However, I think they need to go very hard for Hunter if they plan to sign him because a team like the Nationals or Braves could sneak in and sign him right away. You would think they would prefer Rowand in this situation. Rowand's swing is also tailored for Minute Maid Park and he would definitely benefit from the dimensions of the park. Right now, it is still too early and these players have not even begun talking with their former teams. From previous reports, it does not seem the Astros are the front runner for either player, but two weeks from now it could be a lot different.

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Top 50 Free Agents: 21-30

21. Greg Maddux, Padres

He will keep pitching until he can’t, and he still can. The Padres love his veteran presence and his performance on the mound and will probably give him another one year deal, worth 8-10 million dollars.

Prediction: Padres

22. David Eckstein, Cardinals

The Cardinals would love to have him back but there has been no indication that he is leaning towards it. He has said he would love to be there, but if they do not overwhelm him with a contract he will leave. I think teams like the White Sox or Tigers might offer big for someone like Eckstein, and he may walk. But now that the Tigers have acquire Renteria, it leaves the White Sox as the front-runner.

Prediction: White Sox

23. Michael Barrett, Padres

Michael Barrett had an off year this year but is definitely a prospect to break out. I expect the Mets, Marlins, and Rockies to be most interested, but we’ll see what happens. There has been no indication that the Padres would like to keep Barrett, so it looks like they will take their chances.

Prediction: Marlins [Updated on 11/02]

24. Luis Castillo, Mets

Castillo did very well for the Mets and I am sure they will try to bring him back, but I think it depends how the Mets view their future. He has said he does not want to test the market, but instead sign with the Mets long term.

Prediction: Mets

25. Tomohiro Nioka, Japan

The Pirates may look to trade Jack Wilson this off season for pitching, and I think it makes sense that they sign this veteran shortstop out of Japan. He knows how to play and I think he would put up numbers considerable to Akinori Iwamura’s. It wouldn’t take much to sign him, and worst comes to worst they end up splitting time with one of their utility infielders.

Prediction: Pirates

26. Joe Borowski, Indians

Borowski was great for the Indians and they will probably give him one more year before they look elsewhere.

Prediction: Indians

27. Barry Bonds, Giants

There are few teams that are interested in bringing in Barry Bonds. They include the Tigers, Twins, and Angels. If I were the Twins, I would bring him in to play DH, but at a much reduced price loaded with incentives. I do not see Bonds accepting anything too low, so he might retire. However, he wants the 3000 hit mark-and will play just one more year to get it.

Prediction: Twins

28. Scott Hatteberg, Reds

Probably in his last year, but will be kept to platoon with Votto to ease him in. Hatteberg still has a good bat, and will definitely contribute for the Reds.

Prediction: Reds

29. Hiroki Kuroda, Japan

Kuroda is starting to draw a lot of interest from the Red Sox and Cubs. The Mariners are remaining quiet, but I expect them to go hard for him as soon as it is allowed. I think he might want to go to the Red Sox, but the Cubs tried to sign him last year and I think they will try again.

Prediction: Cubs

30. Kenny Lofton, Indians

Kenny Lofton has not lost a step, and will enter the market looking for a team who needs a one year guy. The Orioles are an option because they have holes, while the Mariners, Brewers, and Athletics remain options as well. I think the Orioles will be able to keep Patterson, but Payton and Gibbons were not impressive and Lofton would provide a one year guy to hold that spot and allow the Orioles to look around for a long term player.

Prediction: Orioles

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Red Sox Timlin Might Be Gone

Probably one of the most consistent relievers sine 1990, Mike Timlin probably pitched his final game with the Red Sox in game four. Timlin is still a great reliever going 2-1 with a 3.42 ERA and 31 K, and pitch in the most stressful situations. But it seems the Red Sox are ready to part ways with him, who has been with the Red Sox for the past five seasons, and look to a younger bullpen. “The whole thing was we thought it was impossible to win because everybody around us thought it was impossible,” Timlin said. “There was a negative energy that we had to fight through but once we did, this organization has been storied. I’m blessed to have been part of this organization with the history it’s had and the history we’ve made.” I expect some teams to be interested, but only at a one year deal. The teams that come to mind include The Phillies, Cubs, Blue Jays, and maybe the Astros, among others. The Blue Jays might have the inside track because he started his career there, and it is the same division. But Timlin resides in Dallas, and may be more inclined to join the Astros or Rangers.

Will Manny be Manny?: Will Manny be Manny this off season and ask to be traded again? Probably not, but it is possible the Red Sox would trade him to clear up some cash and upgrade defensively. It is safe to assume that Coco Crisp will be traded and I'm sure teams will be interested in Manny if he hits the market. The Angels, Rangers, and maybe the Tigers would be interested, but I expect the Angels would go for him. The Tigers already gave up enough prospects for Renteria, and the Rangers, although they could absorb some of his contract, may not want that distraction in the clubhouse as they try to rebuild.

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Blue Jays Have Short To-Do List

The Blue Jays do not have much to do this off season, but do have several players that need to be resigned. The Blue Jays have begun talks with Matt Stairs about a one year deal, in the range of 2-3 million dollars. Stairs, 40, has earned the opportunity to compete for the starting spot in the outfield next season after he hit .289 with 21 HR and 64 RBI. He is very important for the Blue Jays, who can also play him at first base, and to have the veteran in the clubhouse. Other than Stairs, the Blue Jays will look to bring Joe Kennedy back, but I am not sure why. Kennedy was 4-9 with a 4.80 ERA and 51 K. He made 2.8 million dollars and that will probably go down, but you'd think Ricciardi would put that money towards another pitcher. I suspect the Blue Jays will look for another Ted Lilly type pitcher-maybe Kyle Lohse. They do have money to spend and definitely need some help in their rotation and infield. Other than that, it is possible to see them trade Troy Glaus around the time of the Winter Meetings to a team who missed out on Alex Rodriguez. But since steroid allegations are surrounding Glaus, it might be hard to unload him.

Astros re-sign Ausmus: The Astros have resigned Brad Ausmus and have given him a one year deal. Although he will not be starting because J.R. Towles has been given the nod, he should help the Astros pitchers nonetheless.

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Rockies Looking To Japan?

It appears that the Rockies are still content on trading Garrett Atkins for some solid pitching, and if they do, they will have a big whole at the position. However, the Rockies and Kazuo Matsui are working towards a new deal and if they can get it done soon, Matsui could be used to recruit some of the newest Japanese imports, especially Tomohiro Nioka. I do not think Stewart should get the Opening Day nod at third base. Yes, he is very capable and will be a great ball player, but you have to look at examples from this season and work from there. You bring in someone like Nioka and platoon him around the infield and let Stewart get his swing down at Triple-A. Then when the Rockies feel he is ready, ease him into the starting role. Ryan Braun is a perfect example of what I am suggesting. Braun spent a month down at Triple-A and was called up at the end of May. After his call up, he dominated the league and is up for the Rookie of the Year. Now look at Royals third baseman Alex Gordon. Gordon got the Opening Day nod and struggled finishing the year batting .247 with 15 HR and 60 RBI. Hopefully, it does not effect his career but I think the Rockies should take this into consideration. Nioka is a veteran in Japan and batted .295 with 20 HR and 83 RBI. I expect him to be like Akinori Iwamura if he comes over, and he would not cost too much. Other than the Rockies, I expect the White Sox and Pirates to be most interested.

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Jason Bay To Brewers?

The Brewers are very disappointed with top pitching prospect Jeremy Jeffress after he failed another drug test and may look to trade him. They declined Geoff Jenkins option for next year opening a spot in the outfield. The Pirates are looking to trade Bay after a poor offensive year and the Brewers would be smart to get him while his asking price is still low. I suspect that if they traded Jeffress and a minor leaguer or two could land him, it might not even take that though. At Lo-A this season, Jeffress, 19, was 9-5 with a 3.13 ERA in 86.1 IP. He has got a great slider that compliments his fastball, and I think Huntington would love to stock the Pirates with young, capable pitching. Bay if familiar with the NL Central and an adjustment would not be hard at all. If Bay is officially put on the market, expect the Brewers to be all over him.

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Interview with Brad Tippett

Last week, I was put into contact with Brad Tippet via email. Tippett is a prospect in the Twins organization from Australia. He is just 19, and dominated this year at Single-A. There is no doubt in my mind that this righty will be with the Twins soon, and I want to thank him for donating his time to the site. I also want to thank Trevor Jarrett at BJS Sports Management for setting this interview up for me.

ELI: Is baseball very popular in Australia?

BRAD: Its not as popular as say, cricket or football, but a fair few people play.

ELI: How did you get into baseball?

BRAD: As I was growing up as a kid, I would always go to dads games. So just being around the game is what got me so involved.

ELI: You were signed last year right? What was that like to finally be able to come to America and play?

BRAD: It was a life long goal and dream of mine. And to achieve that was such a small step into the world of baseball.

ELI: Was it hard to adjust when you came here?

BRAD: I've traveled a few places to play, mostly everyone, no matter the country all have the same views on baseball. It makes it really easy to settle in.

ELI: Left handers struggled against you this year; did you notice anything you did differently to get them out?

BRAD: No not at all. I just tried to do what I could and it all seemed to work out for me.

ELI: What would you say is your best pitch?

BRAD: I don’t know. I like my fastball, just because I have good control of it, but others say my curve. Depends.

ELI: You have been used mostly as a reliever, would you prefer to start?

BRAD: My whole life before a became professional, I was a starter, so my first year or pro ball I had to makes several adjustments in my routine and everyday training to be comfortable.. I’m thinking I will eventually become a starter, we'll see over the next season.

ELI: Did you have a favorite player growing up?

BRAD: No, I can’t say I did.

ELI: What is one thing you would like to work on this off season?

BRAD: Maintaining my arm strength and durability.

ELI: Do you have a favorite sports movie?

BRAD: Remember the Titans.

ELI: You were named Baseball America Rookie All Star, what does that mean to you?

BRAD: To tell you the truth, I didn’t really know until Trevor told me a few weeks ago. I was pretty stoked to be named though. I think its pretty sweet

ELI: Do you keep in touch with most of the Australian Players in the league?

BRAD: Not with everyone. But you form a pretty good bond with most of your Aussie mates in your team or your opposition.

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BREAKING NEWS: Dodgers to Hire Joe Torre

The Dodgers plan to fire Grady Little and make Joe Torre their manager. Don Mattingly will be his bench coach. As of right now, Torre has agreed to manage the Dodgers they just have to work on a contract. Torre plans to bring over Kevin Long as well, the Yankees hitting coach. To read more about this, click here.

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Padres To Go After Kendall

The Padres catching situation is in limbo with Michael Barrett on his way out, and Colt Morton not quite ready to take over. Padres GM Kevin Towers told me he would keep his options open whether it is Barrett, Kendall, Lo Duca, or Morton, but it is widely agreed that he is enamored by Kendall and has been interested in bringing him in for years. In 57 games with the Cubs, he batted .270 with 1 HR and 19 RBI. I think he is so interested in Kendall is not because of his success in the NL this season compared to previous years, but because he is a defensive specialist who is now familiar with more teams and pitchers in the National League. He would not cost much, and he would be able to help Morton develop into a good catcher to eventually take over that spot. He has not filed for free agency yet, and is still interested in staying with the Cubs, but Geovany Soto and Henry Blanco seem like the guys behind the plate in 2008.

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Crosstown Battle For Crawford

The Chicago White Sox are very interested in trading for outfielder Carl Crawford, and have no problem in offering Jon Garland. They have Jack Egbert that is ready to take over in the rotation and could use an outfielder like Crawford to spark them. However, the Cubs are looking for ways to upgrade their team without spending too much money because of the sale of the club, and trading for Crawford definitely is intriguing. Piniella managed Crawford when he was younger, and Crawford would provide the Cubs with a young, and very capable everyday player. Yes, the Cubs would have to give up something worth while for the Devil Rays, including Felix Pie and probably Sean Gallagher, but it would make them better nonetheless. However, if you follow the Cubs, you know that they do not make too many trades where they throw prospects at teams. According to sources, they are interested in Torii Hunter, but would rather take the trade route this off season. Aside from the outfield situation, the Cubs are also looking for upgrades in their pitching staff. It seems that Plan A is sign Hiroki Kuroda, and have Jason Marquis and Kevin Hart duke it out for the fifth spot. However, Plan B is probably what they will go with, which will be to try Kerry Wood and Ryan Dempster in the rotation, while having Marquis and Hart fight it out for the fifth spot. For Plan B, they would move Howry or Marmol to the closer spot.

For the White Sox, aside from their pitching rotation which seems they will look to in house options, I see them looking for upgrades at shortstop, and of course in the outfield. Torii Hunter and Aaron Rowand are both options in the outfield, while I see them going hard for David Eckstein if he hits the open market. If they cannot land Eckstein, expect them to go for Japanese shortstop Tomohiro Nioka.

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Offseason Day 1

Day 1 Recap:
- The Braves traded Edgar Renteria to the Tigers for Jair Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez.
Who Wins?: The Braves take it on this one. They acquire a young, capable pitcher who is ready to take a spot in the rotation while acquiring a young outfielder with a lot of potential. They do not lose much with Renteria because Yunel Escobar is ready to play everyday at shortstop.
- Yankees offer managerial position to Joe Girardi.
Great Choice?: Yes. He has managerial experience and knows the Yankee organization very well. He is not afraid to stand up to the Front Office and is passionate about the Yankees, who he won a World Series with. The one thing he must do is bring in a veteran bench coach so some of the veteran players like Posada who played along side him do not feel upstaged. A possiblity, I think, is Frank Robinson.
- 57 Players file for free agency.
Notable players: Torii Hunter, Barry Bonds, Livan Hernandez, Kerry Wood, Francisco Cordero, Carlos Silva, Paul Lo Duca, Alex Rodriguez, Mariano Rivera, Jorge Posada, and Aaron Rowand.

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Top 50 Free Agents: 11-20

11. Adam Dunn, Reds

Although Dunn won’t be with the Reds till the end of Spring Training, they will still exercise his contract and give him one more year with the team. He does strikeout a lot, but his bat in the middle of that lineup makes them a lot better. He will be with the Reds at least for 2008, probably beyond that.

Prediction: Reds

12. Corey Patterson, Orioles

Corey Patterson does not seem like an All Star but is definitely contributing. He has done great in a low market town and both the Orioles and he would like to see that continue. However, teams would love to have his speed in their lineup, and I think he is curious to test the market. It would probably take a four year deal, worth 35-45 million dollars to sign him, 50 at the most if the market continues to soar.

Prediction: Orioles

13. Andy Pettitte, Yankees

A lot depends on what his other teammates do, but I think Pettitte will exercise his 16 million dollar option. He had a great year for the Yankees and could do it again without question. Also, he would be smart to wait for a year with better pitching available, like next season where he could make more money.

Prediction: Yankees

14. Mike Cameron, Padres

Cameron struggled some with the Padres but I am sure there will be interest. His hometown team, the Braves, are looking for an outfielder and they could take him for two or three years. That would give time for younger prospects to develop while giving them a good power bat in the middle of their order.

Prediction: Braves

15. Mariano Rivera, Yankees

Mariano Rivera is hurt by Joe Torre’s departure. He understands baseball, which makes me think he might stay, but Rivera looked to Torre as a father figure and he may decide to leave the Yankees behind and walk. He knows he would do better in the NL, would keep a closer spot, and have a couple extra years. I do not think the Steinbrenner’s would hesitate pulling him if he struggled, and I think Rivera needs some security.

Prediction: Yankees [updated 10/30-changed from Phillies]

16. Kosuke Fukudome, Japan

Fukudome will cause craze like Matsuzaka did, but since he is coming off surgery, his expectations might not be as high. I do expect a lot of teams to be interested, and since he does not have a posting fee, he could be signed without any warning. Kevin Towers will be looking for an outfielder and has his eyes on Fukudome, who he eyed back in high school (see interview). However, the Yankees may trade Melky Cabrera and prospects for Miguel Cabrera to fill the need at third base, and sign Fukudome to play outfield. Kei Igawa, who is from Japan, is with the team, along with Taiwanese Chien-Ming Wang, who he may find connections with.

Prediction: Yankees

17. Eric Gagne, Red Sox

I said earlier in the year that Gagne should be let go by the Red Sox and I believe that they will let him walk. He struggled with the Sox and I think it was because he was in a town like Boston, where baseball is the main sport. The Reds struggled in relief and might look to add him. The Giants who watched him pitch for the Dodgers might also look to sign him. I think there will be interest for him, but it will be a reduced price.

Prediction: Giants

18. Carlos Silva, Twins

Silva had a great year for the Twins and is probably going to go out and cash in. The Phillies, Cubs, Braves, Dodgers, Padres, and Mets are interested, but might drop out depending on how much he is looking for. The Cubs are looking to add another pitcher and if they can put together something between Lilly and Marquis, it is possible. The Braves seem the most likely, but if the Cubs can settle the ownership thing, they are my front runner.

Prediction: Phillies

19. Jose Guillen, Mariners

The Mariners would have to do a lot fast if they want to keep Guillen, who has a mutual option. They want to play Adam Jones but must make room for him. If they can trade Richie Sexson and move Ibanez to first base, they could keep Guillen and Jones, but that seems unlikely because Sexson has lost something in his swing. He wants a multi-year deal and could get one with Adam Katz as his agent.

Prediction: Mets

20. Milton Bradley, Padres

Milton Bradley ended the year in dramatic fashion but I think the Padres would like him back. He showed good power and had respect from his coaches and teammates, which many in the Front Office like. He did a good job in left field too, and adding a center fielder like Fukudome would make their lineup pretty good.

Prediction: Padres

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Torre, Mattingly to Dodgers?

Would the Dodgers fire Grady Little and his staff and bring in Joe Torre and Don Mattingly? If he does, Mattingly would probably bolt after one year for another managerial job, but it would be great to bring in that winning mentality for the team. There are a few players on the Dodgers that have either played for Torre, or played around in him, like in the same league. There is a lot of youth on the Dodgers and Torre could really be a father figure for them as they work their way into the league. He did this with Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, and especially Alfonso Soriano, and I think Frank McCourt, a good friend of Torre's, sees the effect he could have on his players. Also, by bringing in both coaches, it is possible that Alex Rodriguez would want to play in LA, and would take a reduced price. Little is no longer suited to handle the Dodgers, and his departure this off season seems inevitable. I expect something will be accomplished in early November so he can prep and recruit players by the Winter Meetings.

Hunter to file for free agency soon?: Twins outfielder Torii Hunter is leaning towards filing for free agency, MLB Rumors correspondent Steve Wilson has learned. It would makes sense. It seems the Twins are not willing to pay him what he thinks he is worth and will test the market. An announcement is expected tomorrow or Wednesday, but it seems it will happen soon.

CONFIRMED BY ESPNEWS

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Tigers Acquire Renteria

The Braves had traded shortstop Edgar Renteria to the Tigers for pitcher Jair Jurrjens and outfielder Gorkys Hernandez. The Tigers plan to move Carlos Guillen to first base and with that opening, fill that whole with an All-Star. "We are excited to add an all-star caliber shortstop in Edgar Renteria to the Tigers organization," Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. "Edgar is a quality player, proven winner and tremendous leader that solidifies our infield." Renteria had a great year for the Braves batting .332 with 12 HR and 57 RBI. With the trade, it opens the spot for Yunel Escobar to take over everyday, and it gives them a good, young starter to take a spot in the bottom part of the lineup. I am a little surprised that they traded Jurrjens, who was considered their fourth best prospect, and I think he will go on to put up pretty good numbers in the NL. Also, Renteria did struggle with the Red Sox in 2005 hitting and fielding, so hopefully he can handle the move better. When it is all said an done however, the Tigers got what they wanted and the Braves got what they wanted.

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Top 50 Free Agents: 1-10

1. Alex Rodriguez, Yankees

Rodriguez is looking for a lot of money, but I think most teams will see that the price is not worth it. As of right now, several teams are still interested but that could change because Boras is a very demanding agent. I expect a team like the Giants, who are desperate for an offensive surge, go after him at all cost. Not only that, but Pedro Feliz is a free agent and he occupied the position so it is now open. But the fact that he has been in the American League is whole career makes me think he might stay.

Prediction: Giants

2. Torii Hunter, Twins

Hunter is the most valuable outfielder on the market. He is a great in the field, and puts up good numbers that would boost any lineup. I see him testing the market because he has complained about the direction of the Twins. He also knows they do not have room for Johan Santana which makes me think he will go somewhere with some potential to be a contender. Like the Rangers, where he grew up, could be a contender in the AL West as players on the better teams begin to decline.

Prediction: Rangers

3. Aaron Rowand, Phillies

Rowand is also a great outfielder but injury problems are definitely a risk. He is great with the bat, but is reckless in the field leading to many injuries. Many teams would still be interested in him however, and he could command a pretty solid deal. I expect him to get around a five year, 80 million dollar deal. I know you may think that is a lot, but look what Alfonso Soriano, Carlos Lee, and several others got last season. The White Sox would love to have him back, but so would the Phillies. I think his heart may still be in Chicago, but if the Phillies can cough up the right price I think they will be able to hold on to him because of the late surge they had in September.

Predicition: White Sox

4. Andruw Jones, Braves

The Braves understand what he has done for the franchise, but he wants so much money that the Braves don’t think it is worth it. Many other teams will be interested and there are other free agents interested in playing in Atlanta. There are other center fielders that will do the job at a lesser price and Jones seems the most likely to fade away before the other free agents.

Prediction: Padres

5. Livan Hernandez, Diamondbacks

Livan Hernandez is the best pitcher on the market and his performance in the playoffs in only helping his cause. He is not only a veteran, but does the job every day with little to no complaints. He is a horse having started 33 games this season including playoffs as well. He is very close to his half brother Orlando Hernandez, who the Mets are very high on, and may try to bring in Livan to make them happy and improve their rotation. The Diamondbacks have little room to sign him so you will probably see him walk.

Prediction: Mets

6. Mike Lowell, Red Sox

Mike Lowell had a great season under the radar with the Red Sox. He thrived on having been blocked by Alex Rodriguez in the AL East, and it showed in his numbers this season and postseason. He is great player, and above average fielder who would help a lot of teams, but his love for Boston and playoff experience works for both sides. However, the Red Sox do not seem interested in long term, like some teams in need of his presence, like the Phillies.

Prediction: Red Sox

7. Jorge Posada, Yankees

It is hard not to see Jorge Posada in a Yankee uniform. And although Joe Torre is out, the Yankees will make an overwhelming offer to Posada before he has a chance to test the market.

Prediction: Yankees

8. Bobby Abreu

It might cost them more than 16 million dollars to find another outfielder, even if he can put up better numbers. Abreu was good for them this year but isn’t the best in the field. He will be good for one more year but I do not see him with the Yankees beyond 2008.

Prediction: Yankees

9. Francisco Cordero, Brewers

Cordero is coming off an excellent year for the Brewers, but the team’s struggles in the second half may lead him to leaving. He is the best closer on the market, and the Brewers aren’t helping by buttering him up so much. They plan to make an aggressive offer to him, and although he may be pressured to test the market, I think he will stay in Milwaukee.

Prediction: Brewers

10. Curt Schilling, Red Sox

Schilling had a decent year for the Red Sox going 9-8 with a 3.87 ERA and 101 K. He is getting older, but could put up good numbers on a National League team. Many are speculating that he will leave Boston after the season and return to Philadelphia. The Phillies are interested, and his family is looking into a house in South New Jersey, which would suggest that their house outside of Boston is sold and they are ready to move on. However, his performance in the post season may drive him to stick it out for one more year.

Prediction: Red Sox

HM. Tom Glavine, Mets

Glavine opted out of his contract and has said that because of his poor finish, he would like to end his career on a better note. Although the Braves are the front runner, do not rule out the Nationals yet. However, having started his career there and because he still lives there makes me think he will return.

Prediction: Braves

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Red Sox Win World Series!

The Red Sox have won the World Series in four games sweeping the Rockies and taking the fourth game by a score of 4-3. This is their second World Series in four years, and many will assume it won't be their last. What a great finish to an incredible season with several teams taking playoff spots in the final week of the season. Not only that, but several players cracked milestones, broke records, and established themselves as true big leaguers. The World Series MVP is Mike Lowell.

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BREAKING NEWS: A-Rod Will Opt Out

Alex Rodriguez tells the Yankees he will opt out of his contract and become a free agent. That means that the three years, 81 million dollars will be deferred and he can explore other options. If the Yankees are true to their word, they will not negotiate with him any further. Personally, I think the Yankees will still negotiate with him, but Rodriguez will probably sign elsewhere. So where will he sign? Rodriguez is coming off a career year and is in line to make thirty million dollars annually. The Angels have denied interest in him so I suspect the Giants, Dodgers, Cubs, Red Sox, and Phillies to be interested. Rodriguez was only hurting the club by waiting so long because they still have to work on signing Posada, Rivera, the coaching staff, and working to retain Andy Pettitte. I think Rodriguez is smart to leave New York. With the pressure on him to perform, making thirty million dollars would definitely get to him, and it seems obvious that he does not have the thickest skin. He is smart to go to a low market town, where the media is not as bad. I'm not saying he is done in New York, but I think he is opting out so Boras can have leverage in negotiations with them later.

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Are the Red Sox the New Yankees?

If the Red Sox pull off the sweep tonight and win their second World Series since 2004, can we consider them the new Yankees? They have spent tons of money, finding upgrades in Daisuke Matsuzaka for over 100 million dollars, J.D. Drew, Julio Lugo, and others. But, are they turning into the team not to root for? Personally, I do not have a problem with the Red Sox, and most people still like to see the collapse of the Yankees. Maybe because Steinbrenner makes such a big thing of it publically. Maybe it is how they go about their business. The players they pluck away from their teams after they get good that struggle is maybe what we all like to see. Jaret Wright, Carl Pavano, and Kevin Brown are just a few examples of players that have not worked out with the Yankees. Personally, I think the Yankees have been hyped up so much because of the amount of money they spend that people naturally root for the underdog, which is and has been the Red Sox. I mean, Terry Francona is the most underrated manager in sports; yet, he leads his team into the postseason every year. While the Yankees go out and find the best players, it seems the Red Sox find the right ones, and people naturally want to root for someone to do better. That's my take on it, whats yours?

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Report: Joe Is The Guy

Girardi, that is. According to the Daily News and confirmed by one of my correspondents, the Yankees are preparing a contract for Joe Girardi and hope to make an announcement later this afternoon or tomorrow. I would assume it is tomorrow because Bud Selig has a rule about holding announcement's till after the World Series, but I suspect it will be a three to four year deal. This is definitely the best move for the Yankees, who add someone who is familiar with the team, media, and managing. Tony Pena is definitely a close second if I was choosing, but I am sure he will remain on the staff. I think Mattingly will find a job, just not with the Yankees. Mattingly needs to realize that managing is tough, especially in New York. Mattingly will find an opening in 2008, with potential spots in Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York (Mets), and maybe Milwaukee.

Now, the Yankees can turn their attention to Alex Rodriguez, and it looks like they plan to offer him a five year deal, worth 150-160 million dollars. This does not surprise me at all because the interest for him would not exceed over 120-130 million dollars elsewhere. I do not expect them to make much of a run at Mariano Rivera, but I do think the Yankees will go ahead with there three year deal, worth 40 million dollars for Jorge Posada.

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The New Okajima: Hitoki Iwase

After seeing the success teams has had with Japanese relievers, other teams will dig in to Japanese bullpens to find their "Okajima." The most obvious choice is Koji Uehara, who is a closer with a fastball, slider, split-finger in his repertoire. He has stated his interest to come to the States and is already drawing interest from the Mariners, Angels, Cubs, Dodgers, Yankees, and Mets. According to the MLB Rumors West Coast Correspondent Thomas Reiss, the Angels are most interested and have been since he rejected their three million dollar contract. However, Hitoki Iwase is a lefty closer who would see much success as a late inning reliever in the States. He put up forty-three saves this year and 129 over the past three seasons. He has a great slider, but his fastball tops out at 88 mph, so there are some concerns. But he is considered the best lefty pitcher in Japanese history-and the same concerns about him were brought up when Okajima was signed, so I would not be too worried about him. I see the Red Sox, Giants, Twins, Dodgers, and Mets to be most interested, but we will know more when he officially declares that he will come here.

Here's my take on it all: Japanese pitchers are a different breed. They work harder, work on their pitches so much that they can throw them in any count. Okajima will throw that nasty breaking ball on a 3-0 count with the bases loaded. Furthermore, aside from personal skill, their tendencies are different than most American pitchers, and cannot always be read as easily. Okajima had so much success early on because no one could pick up his tendencies. I expect those kinds of things to happen with some of the new Japanese players along the way. I expect Kei Igawa to have more success in the bullpen than in the rotation next season. A middle relief pitcher that will set it up for the late inning ones, I believe that is where his success is. His stuff is not overpowering, but it can get the job done for an inning.

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Orioles Shopping, Tejada, Bedard?

The Orioles will come in to the off season looking to trade Miguel Tejada, and possibly Erik Bedard. Both of them, would draw considerable interest and would probably be traded early rather than late. For Tejada, I see interest coming from the Cubs, Angels, Astros, and Dodgers. Now would be a great time for the Angels to make a trade. They know where they have depth, and this would be a great start to the off season after two previous unsuccessful ones. They could trade Ervin Santana, Reggie Willits, and a third player for him. They may look to part with Chone Figgins and could offer him, but I think they will look to teams with more proven pitching for him. Personally, I think the Dodgers have the best chance to land him. They have young talent to offer and it would not hurt them too much to offer it. Chin-Lung Hu, Andre Ethier, and Tony Abreu, but a lot of pressure is on Ned Colletti to find a solid upgrade, and he would definitely be taking a chance on Tejada. Maybe they would offer Rafael Furcal? A sleeper in this race is definitely the Astros, who are looking for an upgrade in the infield. Yes, Everett is great defensively, but is power is next to nothing. Not only that, but Tejada's swing is tailored to Minute Maid Park, and he would benefit in two seasons there.

For Bedard, the Orioles feel they have enough starting pitching and can unload him for major league ready players. I hope they are not counting Radhames Liz in that list. Liz has some of the worst mechanics I have ever seen, and will probably lead to arm problems eventually. Bedard could probably bring in a capable outfielder, and couple prospects. I expect interest in Bedard to be everywhere in this weak market for pitching. The Indians, Rockies, Diamondbacks, Cubs, Cardinals, Nationals, Mariners, Twins, and maybe the Blue Jays to be interested. This would be a smart move to make on the Orioles part. They could land several young players that could take over spots in the field and they would potentially put them on the same path as the Rockies are right now. However, let's not get too far ahead of ourselves-Orioles President Andy McPhail is known for taking his time with trades and it might hurt their chances of landing the best players. Only time will tell.

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Nationals Looking At Wright?

The Nationals are looking for pitching and may take a chance on veteran pitcher Jaret Wright. Wright wasn't much of anything until 2004, when he went 15-8 with a 3.28 ERA and 159 K for the Braves. When the Yankees saw those numbers from a twenty-nine year old, they were all over it and signed him to a big three year deal, worth 21 million dollars. He went 16-12 with a 5.29 ERA in two years for the Yankees, and after battling injuries, he was traded to the Orioles. The Orioles were not impressed after he failed to make more than three starts, and released him. The Nationals appear to be the front-runners to land him, even though the list probably does not stretch very far. The Nationals tried very hard to land him back in 2004, and will certainly try again, but at a reduced price. If they sign him, it would be a win-win for the Nationals who would pay next to nothing for his services. Along with Wright, the Nationals will also look to go after Tom Glavine, along with Mark Prior and Joe Kennedy. They also plan to take the trade route and will try to acquire now benched center fielder Coco Crisp.

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Colletti Thinking Future

The next Yankees manager will definitely determine the status of Grady Little with the Dodgers. Little, who will be entering his third year as manager, will be under a lot of scrutiny if they do not see much improvement. They finished with a record of 82-80 this season, in fourth place, and many began to speculate that he had lost control of the clubhouse in September. Colletti has known Girardi since 1989, and has held talks with Girardi about becoming the bench coach if he isn't picked for the Yankees job. However, Grady Little is not involved in these discussions so it does set up an uncomfortable situation next season. Nonetheless, I think it is a good move on the Dodgers part. You bring in a young, experienced, coach, who has served time as the Yankees bench coach, and manager of the Florida Marlins, to familiarize himself with the team assuming he would be the manager when Little is let go. For now, all of this is speculation. The Yankees are not close to naming a manager yet, but will be soon. George Steinbrenner still favors Don Mattingly as manager, but several Front Office executives prefer Joe Girardi. If Girardi does not get the Yankees job, I suspect that Girardi would either talk with Little before making the switch, or take a Front Office role so he is not stepping on the toes of Little next season.

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Astros To Let Jennings Walk

The Astros sacrificed Willy Taveras for Jason Jennings last off season, and after he struggled going 2-9, they will let him go. However, it isn't a complete failure because they got a good look at Hunter Pence, who is now the everyday center fielder. The Astros were very disappointed with his numbers, especially because he left a hitters friendly park. Although the Astros are short on pitching, they will let him walk. Jennings will probably get a two to three year deal, worth 7-10 million dollars total. I expect the Rangers, who were interested in him last year take a shot at him, maybe even the Cubs, but they have Jason Marquis, and cannot afford another inconsistent pitcher. The Twins were very close to acquiring him last off season but talks fell through. I expect that Bill Smith will make another run at him for their pitching rotation, especially if they lose Silva. Jennings is twenty-nine, and is probably better off taking a one year deal with an option to get his numbers back up for 2009.

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Cardinals Interested In Kobayashi

Although Masahide Kobayashi is a closer, a source tells me that the Cardinals are very interested in him as a reliever. Kobayashi hasn't said he was leaving, but was lights out in the playoffs. The Cardinals could probably sign him to a minor league deal, but I do not expect him to be all that successful in the MLB. In 2006, he was 6-2 with a 2.68 ERA and 34 SV. In 2007, now 33, went 2-7 with a 3.61 ERA and 27 SV. He could be like Hideki Okajima, which would be great, but I expect him to be in between Kei Igawa and former Mariner Shigetoshi Haswgawa, on a good day. Calls were not immediately returned from John Mozeliak, but I will keep you informed. The Cardinals are expected to look for upgrades in their rotation and outfield.

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Braves Could Trade For Benched Crisp

The Red Sox have given up on Coco Crisp because of rookie outfielder Jacoby Ellisbury, and will look to trade him. There has been speculation that he will go to the Nationals, but it seems the Braves and Phillies are also interested. The Braves plan on letting Jones walk and will pursue Crisp for prospects. Crisp is under contract til 2009 making 10.5 million dollars with an 8 million dollar option for 2010. This will be the only thing holding a trade back, but I think they will get something done. Crisp batted .268 with 6 HR and 60 RBI, but is a switch hitter with some lead off experience. He would be a huge downgrade from Jones, but would only be a stopgap for prospect Jordon Schafer, who is in Single-A. The Braves will not give up much for Crisp, but I think they are the front-runner to land him.

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Reds Interested In Hawkins?

New Reds manager Dusty Baker is looking for familiar faces in the clubhouse including Kerry Wood, Mark Prior, and now LaTroy Hawkins. Hawkins stood behind his manager back in 2004 when the team was struggling, and Dusty really respected him for that. He has traveled around since leaving the Cubs, and although he will be turning 35 in December, he plans to keep playing. The Reds could use his experience in their bullpen, and could probably sign him at a reduced price. Along with Hawkins, the Reds are interested in Kerry Wood and Mark Prior; however, the Cubs are expected to hold on to both. I suspect that if Prior is not healthy in 2008, that they will look to trade him, but Wood has deserved another shot on the Cubs roster. The Reds are looking to retool their pitching staff and that will start by bringing in some proven veterans along with young, developing players. They could make another run at Kyle Lohse, but only if he is interested in returning.

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Romero To Hit Market

Left handed pitcher J.C. Romero played a big part in getting the Phillies to the postseason, but it seems that he and the Phillies are far apart in contract negotiations. Maybe they will pick up after the playoffs, but the Phillies would rather retain Aaron Rowand before Romero. Romero was 2-2 with a 1.92 ERA in 74 games. He has never had such a year which makes me think he won't be able to pull for too much money, but there will definitely be interest. The Phillies bullpen was a weak point this season and signing Romero and making other upgrades in the bullpen they will be even better in that division. Other teams will be all over Romero after the two week filing period including the White Sox, Braves, Dodgers, Rockies, Reds, and Cubs, among others, to be interested in him.

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Cubs Interested In Affeldt

According to sources inside the Cubs, Assistant General Manager Randy Bush thinks very highly of reliever Jeremy Affeldt, especially after his performance in the playoffs. His experience would be great for the Cubs, especially because they need a proven lefty specialist. Affeldt is twenty-nine, and could sign a three to four year deal, worth eight to ten million dollars. I would suspect his numbers to improve leaving a hitter friendly stadium, but the Cubs defense is not as good as the Rockies. Other teams that have shown interest in Affeldt include the Phillies, Angels, Twins, Padres, Rangers, Red Sox, and White Sox.

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Interview with Matt Sosnick

Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to interview Sports Agent Matt Sosnick. Sosnick is the founder of Sosnick Cobbe Sports, an agency that represents over twenty players. They are most known for Dontrelle Willis, but also represent Freddy Sanchez, Josh Hamilton, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Kevin Kouzmanoff, and more. I really appreciate Matt Sosnick for agreeing to do this interview while he plans for the off season ahead.

ELI: How did you start get your start in baseball?

MATT: I found one player, who was actually a family friend, let me represent him. He never actually made it, but he gave me my start and I was able to move on from there.

ELI: Did you play any sports growing up?

MATT: Not so much baseball, I was more a basketball player?

ELI: What are your day to day duties as an agent?

MATT: It depends. I usually make a list for myself each night, but stuff definitely comes up during the day.

ELI: How much contact do you have with each of your clients?

MATT: I have a lot of contact with my players. I was just at Dontrelle Willis' Charity Event and some my other clients were there as well.

ELI: Coming into the off season with several clients unsigned, how do you prioritize which players come first?

MATT: Well, we have different people in the off season doing different things. We have an arbitration guy, contract guy, other things like that. We take our guys on a week long trip each year-this year we are going to Cabo with our guys.

ELI: Do you go to a lot of your clients games?

MATT: Yeah, and I have a lot of guys on the same team. I've got three on the Pirates, six on the Marlins, three on the Rangers, so I can visit them in groups.

ELI: Was becoming an agent something you had always wanted to do?

MATT: Actually no, it is something I just decided to do one day and went with it.

ELI: Out of baseball, do you have a favorite team?

MATT: The 49ers.

ELI: How about a favorite movie?

MATT: Bull Durham.

ELI: What is the one thing you would say an everyday fan does not know about sports agents?

MATT: I think that fans do not know how important our relationships with our players are. With all the things out side baseball, having us can really influence a career. Wives, girlfriends, breakups, parents pass away, all that can effect a player. Having us to turn to really helps players and I think that is the one thing people do not understand.

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Dodgers To Fire Little?

The Dodgers are intrigued by the possibility of having Joe Torre as their next manager. Grady Little had little control over his clubhouse towards the end of the season and it seemed likely that he would be let go. Owner Frank McCourt knows Torre will not be on the market for long and would be smart to pick him up early. However, if Torre is not interested, it is possible to see Little still fired and go after Girardi or Mattingly, if either is passed up for the Yankees job. I see them going after Girardi before Mattingly because Girardi has experience managing younger players. The Dodgers finished with an 82-80 record, never really had to deal with. Nonetheless, if Torre is interested in the job, they would sign him in a heart beat.

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Cardinals Release Maroth

The Cardinals mid season experiment with Mike Maroth failed, and they have decided to release him. It doesn't come as a surprise to many after he was 0-5 with a 10.66 ERA in 14 games for the Cardinals. He was 5-2 with the Tigers before being traded, and is just thirty, so I am sure there will be interest in him. The Twins may be looking for a pitcher, especially a lefty, and could sign him. He is from Florida, and could pitch for the Marlins if they are interested in a veteran pitcher. So many teams are looking to round out the bottom of their rotation so I expect Maroth to be signed early rather than late. He can put up 8-10 wins, while hovering around a 4.50 ERA, not bad a for a fifth starter if he can stay healthy. Teams that have been interested in Maroth in the past include the White Sox, Rangers, Marlins, and others. He will probably make two to four million where ever he ends up going. I suspect a one year deal, worth about three million dollars with a club option so the team can have control over his fate if he struggles.

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Interview with Jamie Moyer

Last July, I put in a call to the Moyer Foundation about a possible interview with Jamie Moyer. The women I talked to, Sandy Murray, told me he would really like to focus on baseball and would get back to me at the end of the season. Come the end of the season, I put in another call and I had my questions sent over to have answered. Moyer is currently pitching on the Phillies, but has been in baseball since 1986. Many think, including me, that he will keep pitching until there is no long a jersey available. I want to thank Jamie Moyer, and especially Sandy Murray for staying to her word, I really appreciate it.

ELI: What was it like being drafted by the Cubs? Did you see it coming?

JAMIE: It was exciting. It was a dream come true to be drafted by a pro team and have the opportunity to play.

ELI: After pitching in the majors for several years, you were sent back to the minors in 1992? What did you work on while you were down there to get back?

JAMIE: Getting my confidence back.

ELI: What was it like getting traded from the Red Sox to the Mariners? How did you find out?

JAMIE: It was an exciting opportunity to be a starting pitcher on a regular basis, doing what I wanted to do, going to an organization where I knew there was a consistent chance to go far, as long as I did well. I found out right before a game- I took off my uniform and just got on a plane.

ELI: Many would say that 1997 was your breakout year with the Mariners. Do you remember working on anything in the off season before that to get better?

JAMIE: Nothing in particular, the same program every season. Consistent work outs and getting rest while trying to get mentally prepared is all.

ELI: What was it like going to Japan in 1998? Were any of the players playing on the Japan team playing in the majors now?

JAMIE: Ichiro and [Hideki] Matsui were there. The opportunity to play on an All Star team was really exciting. Often times I thought about how I wanted to play on a regular season team full of All-Stars.

ELI: The 2001 season was a crazy year for the Mariners. What do you remember most from that year?

JAMIE: Everybody came in with a great work ethic and expected win, and we did. We tied the MLB record with 116 wins.

ELI: The final game in 2007 was a big one, were you feeling any different about that start than other ones?

JAMIE: I knew the significance of what was going on, which made it exciting, starting knowing the Mets were losing. But I tried to focus on pitching well, and fortunately we were able to win, and it gave us a division championship.

ELI: Can you tell me some about the Moyer Foundation? Camp Erin?

JAMIE: The Foundation is an extended home for me with the support of great employees, great volunteers, and the generous support of the community believing in what we do at the Foundation. With all that support, it has been a great way to give back to the community. Camp Erin is our bereavement camps for children- it is a special place for us. I feel privileged and honored to establish more Camp Erin's in the Northwest and beyond. To see many children, who are going through such a difficult time, benefit from Camp Erin is fulfilling. We are so grateful to those who have supported our mission through Camp Erin and we look forward to continuing to help kids for many years to come.

ELI: What would you say is your best pitch?

JAMIE: Any pitch that I can get someone out early on!

ELI: Could you name one hitter you have had constant success against?

JAMIE: It varies. Nobody really stands out. Maybe Scott Brosius.

ELI: Who is the funniest guy in the clubhouse?

JAMIE: Shane Victorino.

ELI: Who on the Phillies is most likely to be found sleeping in the dugout during the game?

JAMIE: Nobody, because I wouldn't let them.

ELI: What is your favorite baseball movie?

JAMIE: Field of Dreams.

ELI: Can you think of a funny mound visit you had with a coach or catcher?

JAMIE: Danny Wilson, during a Yankees game. I had left him a message earlier in the day asking him to be a God father to my son. The message got mixed up at the hotel, and he didn't get back to me immediately. At the game that night, after the first pitch, he walked up to me, handed me the ball, and said, 'Oh, and by the way, yes!'

ELI: If you could pitch to one pitcher in the past, who would it be?

JAMIE: Babe Ruth.

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Left Off Roster, Tavarez Probably Gone

Seeing the Red Sox leave veteran pitcher Julian Tavarez off the World Series roster is a good sign that they have seen enough from Tavarez, and will probably decline his option. Tavarez, 35, was pretty adamant about starting and I do not think the Red Sox want to put someone making nearly four million in the bullpen. He is not as dominant as he used to be and is probably going to fade a little more coming into 2008. This season, he was 7-11 with a 5.15 ERA and 77 K in 134.2 innings. I think there will be interest in him, but probably at a one year deal, worth 2-3 million dollars. It is possible to see the Diamondbacks go after him for their bullpen or rotation, maybe the Reds as well. Tavarez was on the Cardinals when Baker was managing the Cubs, so we could see Baker lobby for him in his bullpen. Since 1993, Tavarez is 84-70 with a 4.42 ERA with the Indians, Rockies, Cubs, Giants, Cardinals, Pirates, Marlins, and Red Sox-so he has experience playing against most teams.

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Negotiations Heading South?

Carlos Silva, Twins: The Twins offered Carlos Silva a three year deal worth 24 million dollars that Silva turned down. The Twins haven't been the best in contract negotiations in the past, which may lead to another player leaving. They need to settle this fast before it carries on so long that Torii Hunter walks as well. Silva wants a four year deal worth 35-45 million dollars and he could probably get that because his numbers would look really good in the National League, on grass, and if he can work his sinker ball consistently.

David Eckstein, Cardinals: Cardinals GM John Mozeliak says no deal is imminent, and he hasn't had discussions with his agent recently, which suggests that Eckstein will explore the market. The Cardinals probably aren't terribly desperate to retain Eckstein, but would like to have him. They do have Brendan Ryan, who batted .289 with 4 HR and 12 RBI, but La Russa and Eckstein had a good relationship and the coaching staff really liked how versatile Ryan was. I expect the White Sox to be most interested if he hits the open market.

Jose Guillen, Mariners: The Mariners and Guillen have a mutual option it us becoming more and more clear that Guillen will opt out. He had a great year with the Mariners this season and could probably get a multi year deal if he went on the market. He hit .290 with 23 HR and 99 RBI and is just 31, so he could probably command a three or four year deal.

Mariano Rivera, Yankees: According the MLB Rumors East Coast Correspondent Martin Brooks, Mariano Rivera is looking for a three year deal, worth 45 million dollars. I do not think the Yankees will work with that, especially if they invest forty million in Jorge Posada. Interest is up for Rivera, especially from the Phillies, so I do not think he will have trouble finding a job.

Paul Byrd, Indians: The recent reports that Paul Byrd has taken HGH definitely has hurt his chances of the Indians picking up his option. Despite his fourteen wins, MLB and other teams denying that they knew about his use will probably force him out of Cleveland. I do not think Cleveland is completely turned off, but they might want to rework his contract a little bit.

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Cardinals To Shop Duncan?

Although Tony La Russa is a big fan of outfielder and first baseman Chris Duncan, the Cardinals may feel the need to trade him for pitching. He would do wonders for an American League team because of his versatility. If the Cardinals could land a pitcher by trading Duncan, they could test the market for a free agent outfielder like Aaron Rowand. Duncan, 26,hit just .259, but had 21 HR and 70 RBI in 127 games. I expect he would draw interest from the Tigers, who are looking for an outfielder and possible DH as Gary Sheffield continues to have setbacks. I also think the White Sox, Giants, Rangers, and maybe the Blue Jays to be interested in him, but a lot will determine whether or not the other free agents opt out of their contracts.

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Cliff Floyd To Explore Market

Cliff Floyd started his career with the Marlins in 1997, and finished with them in 2002. He has always spoken well of his Marlins and has told close friends he wouldn't mind finishing his career there. He is also good friends with Fredi Gonzalez, who was a base coach back when Floyd was with the team. This was probably Floyd's hardest year in the majors, having to deal with the death of his father and coming back from knee surgery, so playing near his Florida home would definitely be a plus. He made three million this year and batted .284 with 9 HR and 45 RBI, not bad, but it could have been better. He will probably look for another one year deal, worth 2-3 million again. That shouldn't be too much for the Marlins, but they probably do not want to take on that kind of salary for someone who can't play everyday. Who knows though, he could take a discount and really mold some of those young ballplayers into great ones. I think the Cubs really liked what Floyd was able to do for the team and I'm sure they would like to bring him back, if he is interested. He is a solid guy off the bench and in the clubhouse who can still crush the ball. Floyd told his agents to talk to with any team, so I suspect he will land somewhere-maybe Baltimore, Oakland, Twins, or maybe the Nationals, but he says if no one offers a contract, he will happily retire.

[Note: Republished From October 1st]

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Will The Orioles Trade Millar?

The city of Baltimore is openly mad at Orioles first baseman Kevin Millar for throwing out the first pitch for the Red Sox. Yes, Millar has ties to most of the players and coaches on the team, but throwing it out for someone in your own division, in the playoffs, isn't right. Could the people in the Front Office be so upset with Millar that they will look to trade him? I doubt this is the case, but Millar would definitely draw interest from around the league. The Giants are looking for a first baseman with Ryan Klesko on his way out and Millar would be a good upgrade. The Orioles and Giants have worked several trades with the Giants in the past, so this is plausible. Maybe a minor league prospect or two for Millar would do the trick, but Millar has just one more year on his contract which might turn the Giants off. Millar will make 2.75 million next season which is fair considering he will probably hit .260 with 15 HR. Another possibility is the Yankees, who are looking for a first baseman. This would make Ted Williams sit up in his freezer, but the Yankees would love to have his bat and experience in their lineup. Calls were not immediately returned from Brian Cashman, but I see the Giants, Yankees, and Rangers being interested in Millar if the Orioles decide to shop him.

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Rangers Shopping Laird

Jarrod Saltalamacchia is the catcher of the future for the Rangers and which suggests that Gerald Laird is now expendable. Laird was not impressive this season with his bat, but did throw out 39.9 % of the players stealing on him. He batted .224 AVG with 9 HR and 47 RBI, so he would make for a solid backup defensively, but I would not count on him as a starter. They could package him for an outfielder or a pitcher with other players, which seems more likely than a one-for-one type deal. The Rangers and Brewers have had pretty good relations when it comes to trades, working the Carlos Lee deal a couple of seasons ago. I think it is possible that Laird along with a pitching prospect or relief pitcher could land Hall, who struggled for the Brewers this season. The Mets, Cubs, Rockies, and Blue Jays I see as other legitimate candidates to land him because they have expendable players in the outfield. The Marlins and A's might also might join the race, but they would be minor trades because they are only looking for an upgrade at catcher. I see a trade happening either in early November, before the frenzy for Torii Hunter begins, or sometime in January as teams look for players to fill spots on their team. Laird is eligible for arbitration and will probably make some where between 500,000-500,500 dollars for 2008, a respectable contract for a budget conscience Marlins or A's.

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Barfield Back To Padres?

Padres GM Kevin Towers said in an interview with MLB Rumors that second base is the easiest position to full. The Padres have some second base prospects in their system but they are still a couple years away. I think the Padres are looking for a second baseman and may look to bring back Barfield, who struggled with the Indians this season after batting .230 with 4 HR in 130 games. The Indians have Asdrubal Cabrera, and have no need for Barfield so he will likely be traded anyways. The Mets and Twins might take a chance on him if their second base options don't work out, but they might look to in house options too. Barfield is a good option for the position, but if they think high of their prospects he might not be. If I was the Padres GM, I would be all over Barfield even if he is a three or four year player. He knows the Padres and how they play and had success playing in the NL West-I think it would be a great investment. If they are not interested in Barfield, Tadihito Iguchi is a great player to take a chance on. He is coming off a bad year but a change of scenery would benefit him.

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Cardinals Should Keep Mozeliak

The Cardinals have John Mozeliak on an interim bases but he is not looking at it like that. Since being promoted, he has signed Springer, Isringhausen, and La Russa. He has proven that he can negotiate contracts at a quickened pace, and has been in the organization long enough to understand its intent and direction. Mozeliak has also worked in the draft for the Cardinals which suggests he has a eye for young talent. Yes, there are other General Managers out there that are available and capable of doing a great job, but why move someone who is doing a great job? According to the MLB Rumors West Coast Correspondent Thomas Reiss, the Cardinals have narrowed their choices down to Diamondbacks Assistant GM Peter Woodfork, White Sox Assistant GM Rick Hahn, and Indians assistant GM Chriss Antonetti. However, he believes that Woodfork and Mozeliak are the leading candidates behind Hahn and Antonetti. The new GM will have some say in the payroll, which makes even more sense to keep Mozeliak. Furthermore, you have someone who is familiar with the organization and bringing someone in would only lengthen that process. The Cardinals would like to resign David Eckstein, while upgrading in the outfield, and pitching staff. I see them going after someone like Ryan Freel, while trading for number two or three starter like Jon Garland. Garland would be great to put in between Carpenter and Wainwright, and would make them a lot better. Scott Rolen and Jim Edmonds will likely be shopped around, but Rolen has three years left on his contract worth 36 million dollars while Edmonds may not be capable of playing center field on a regular basis. The Athletics might be looking for a new DH and could trade a pair of relievers for Edmonds and cash. Edmonds has played in the AL West and the Athletics might like to have a veteran in the clubhouse with experience against the division. The longer the Cardinals take to decide a GM, the more it weakens their chances of signing free agent to be David Eckstein, among others.

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Yanks Feel Heat, Request Meeting With Boras

The Yankees have made it clear that they will not negotiate with Alex Rodriguez if he opts out of his contract. Well apparently, it seemed that he was leaning towards exercising that clause and now the Yankees would like to convince him not to. Rodriguez has three years left on his contract worth 81 million dollars total, and if the Yankees want to keep him, it will probably go up. The Yankees would like get this settled and announced in the first days following the World Series so they can try and sign Rivera and Posada, while also deciding a manager. They do have a lot to do, but I think most can be accomplished. I think Boras has come to realize that A-Rod would only lose money if he opted out because teams that can afford him were starting to pull out of the running. So Boras is forced to lower his price tag or in other terms, come back down to earth, and work out a new deal with the Yankees. This could turn into a lengthy process, ending with the departure of several players including Mariano Rivera, who is looking at fifteen million dollars a year from the Phillies. I've said it from the beginning that I do not think A-Rod would leave simply because of this, and the Steinbrenner's see that it would only hurt the team, and have given the go ahead to pursue him. I do not know if the Yankees will go long term with Rodriguez, but I see the Yankees throwing three year deals at Posada and Rivera, both right around the 35 to 45 million dollar mark. For Rodriguez, he might be making that much annually. I see a final deal with Rodriguez at seven years, worth 30-33 million dollars annually, with a full no-trade clause. Boras will end up working his magic, like he has with so many clients before, but the 2007 MVP to-be will be under a lot of scrutiny if he doesn't repeat or improve upon the numbers he put up this year.

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Geoff Jenkins to Detroit?

Geoff Jenkins has played with the Brewers since 1998. Although he is no longer the face of the team, he has a presence in the clubhouse that cannot be replaced. However, he batted .255 with 21 HR and 64 RBI, numbers that are not worth 9 million for one more year. The Brewers have two options in this case:

1) Decline the option and sign him to a two year extension worth 15 million dollars with an option for a third year. You save some money that would go towards Francisco Cordero and other free agents.

2) Decline the option and let him walk. You have Mench and Stock, and you could go out and try and sign either Kosuke Fukudome, Jose Guillen, or maybe Kenny Lofton, as a one to two year stopgap for young players Cole Gillespie or Lorenzo Cain.

I would take option two and go with someone like Jose Guillen. He would provide a great bat for two to three years and by the time his contract is up, they would have young prospects ready to take the spot. Giving Guillen a three year deal worth 30-35 million makes sense, but I don't know if it will happen. If Jenkins is let go, I see the Indians going after him. Kenny Lofton did not seem to happy last night with the coaching staff in Cleveland and may walk. He has played with seven teams in eight years and I see him moving on again. The Brewers number one priority is signing Cordero, so seeing Jenkins walk might happen. The Tigers need a left handed hitter who can play left field or first base and Jenkins does fit the bill. He is thirty three and versatile, and would be a big upgrade over Timo Perez. Also, it would not be a long term commitment so it would be low risk for the Tigers.

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Phillies Should Take Chance On Cabrera

helping out as well. However, what could the The Phillies infield is stacked with talent and they are all fairly young. Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, and Jimmy Rollins already make them one of the best teams in baseball, with other fillers like Aaron Rowand, Pat Burrell, and Rule V Prospect Shane VictorinoPhillies do to get better? If their pitching can stay healthy, I would pick them to win the division again, but we will have to wait till it gets closer to Spring Training. Adding Mike Lowell would be great, but expensive, especially if they want to hold on to Aaron Rowand. The Phillies have some prospects waiting for their chance that could be expendable in certain situations. Adding Miguel Cabrera, who the Marlins are looking to trade, would complete that infield and make that lineup solid up and down. For the Marlins, it would make room in there payroll and ultimately make room for prospect Chris Coghlan at second while moving Uggla to third. They could offer Brett Myers, cash, and several prospects and still be a great team and put pressure on the aging Mets to improve. They have Hamels, Kendrick, Lieber, and hope to hold on to Kyle Lohse, while finding places for Moyer and Durbin. I think the Phillies have room for Rowand if they modify his contract to fit into their payroll, but if he decides to leave, they have Michael Bourn, Jason Werth, and other players around the league that are available. Greg Golson did pretty well for the Phillies in Double-A, and he is playing Fall Ball right now so he is a candidate in the outfield. According to the MLB Rumors East Coast Correspondent Steve Wilson, the Marlins have not ruled out any teams in trade negotiations, which makes this scenario more plausible. Most of these big trades will happen around the Winter Meetings, and I see not only the Phillies, but the Giants, Dodgers, Angels, and maybe the Yankees or Red Sox, depending on Lowell and Rodriguez, to be interested.

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Reds May Trade Freel

Despite Dusty Baker's love for veterans, the Front Office may see the potential for its younger players and stick with them. I'm not saying that Jeff Keppinger and Norris Hopper have at all proven themselves, but they have shown that they can contribute and deserve a fair look. Also, Encarnacion has shown great strides at third base and will get a good look while Votto and Jay Bruce should get spots in the lineup. I see them starting the year with Hatteberg at first, Votto in left, and a platoon of Bruce and Hamilton in center. However, when Dunn comes back I think, depending on how Hatteberg and Votto preform, that their time will be reduced and one will get the everyday job. Furthermore, if Bruce and Hamilton both do well and Griffey starts to slow down in right, it is possible that the Reds will trade Griffey once he accomplishes 600 homeruns. But Freel, a utility player who hits around .270, should draw considerable interest. I would attack the Padres bullpen in a trade involving Freel. He would be a great fall back option if they miss out on Fukudome and would provide them with a legitimate lead off man. Jim Edmonds is starting to slow down in center for the Cardinals and is probably in his last years, so he could fill in their. Also, the Cardinals might lose Eckstein at shortstop with the Front Office in limbo and Freel could platoon there as well. I think Freel would be a great player to bring in and play not only center, but shortstop, third base, and the other outfield positions. The Cardinals do not have much to offer though. Maybe Ryan Franklin and P.J. Walters, but maybe the Reds want something more close to ready with Franklin. Other teams that might be interested in Freel are the Twins, Blue Jays, Marlins, Braves, Giants, or Nationals.

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Twins Prefer Lefties

The Twins have a new GM coming into the off season and he has already made a conscious effort to turn things around. He understands that he might lose both Carlos Silva and Torii Hunter, but won't go down without a fight: "The reality with Torii Hunter and Carlos Silva is that it's a two-way street," Smith said. "It's done through negotiation. But if they don't want to come back, they have that option. So we have to have a Plan A if they're back and a Plan B if they're not." The Metrodome's dimensions play in favor to lefty pitching and lefty hitting, so it makes sense that they will look to players who will benefit from that. It is 327'' down the right field line and 343'' down the left field line so you can see how it helps. Look at their lineup right now: Mauer, Morneau, Punto, Kubel, Santana, and Liriano, it is mostly lefties. The short wall in right field helps the hitters while the big outfield in left helps the pitchers. That's why recent reports that suggest Chien-Ming Wang to the Twins and Santana to the Yankees seem foolish. "I think that's a fair statement," speaking on lack of depth. "We'll try and address that. If we are able to make any trades, it could involve trading pitching depth for position-player depth. We have more pitching depth at the higher levels than position-player depth." Although they may not want to trade in their division, Cliff Lee of the Indians would be a good choice. Not only is he a lefty, but is 2-1 with a 4.78 ERA in six games there and has experience against the division. Another pitcher that they would not have to give up much for is twenty-two year old Ryan Feierabend. Looking at hitters, players that should be available include Jacque Jones, Connor Jackson, Michael Bourn, Edgar Renteria, among others. However, they really do not have much leverage in the minors to acquire some of these players so may look to raise the payroll. They could try to bring back Luis Castillo, sign Cesar Izturis, Corey Patterson, and maybe even Barry Bonds. Bill Smith plans to be as aggressive as possible and hopefully the Twins can return to the top of the division where they stood for several years.

UPDATE: According to the MLB Rumors East Coast Correspondent Steve Wilson, the Yankees are preparing a trade involving Melky Cabrera, Ian Kennedy, and at least two minor league prospects for Johan Santana while shopping Johnny Damon around. Although this has not been confirmed, it is believed that the Yankees will pick up most of his salary to improve what they get in return. From there, they hope to add either Kosuke Fukudome, Corey Patterson, Aaron Rowand, or Coco Crisp, if they become available.

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Diamondbacks Focus In On Pitching

Like most teams, the Diamondbacks plan to focus in on pitching. However, they are planning to look at both free agents and through trades. They were very pleased with the success of Doug Davis and may try to pull of another trade like that. In an interview with MLB Rumors, GM Josh Byrnes said, "Livan is going to be entering the free agent market and we feel that there are some good pitchers that could help out our club." So who could those pitchers be? Livan is already out the door and probably on his way to the Mets. My guess is he will look to the Angels and Ervin Santana, the Indians and Jake Westbrook or Cliff Lee, the Orioles and Daniel Cabrera, and the Marlins and Dontrelle Willis. Although the Marlins might not want to trade him, the Diamondbacks have a lot of depth and could offer a deal including top prospect Carlos Gonzalez. However, they could also load a deal with Carlos Quentin that would include Juan Cruz, Connor Jackson, and Dustin Nippert. Personally, I think the Diamondbacks should look to Ervin Santana. He had sixteen wins in 2006 and kept his ERA down in the American League. He has pitched in the postseason successfully, and would benefit from a core of young players and solid defense. They also would not have to give up much for him because he is coming off a bad year. Daniel Cabrera would not be a bad choice either, but his attitude problems and inconsistency might turn the Diamondbacks off. Also, the Diamondbacks have a solid bullpen and could look to acquire Jason Marquis and cash for a pair of pitchers, maybe Juan Cruz and a minor leaguer. The Cubs do need to solidify their bullpen and Cruz would be an excellent addition. On the free agent market, I think the Diamondbacks would be smart to load the back end of their rotation with Kyle Lohse and maybe Jeff Weaver, who is also coming off a bad year. Josh Byrnes and Peter Woodfork have done a great job in building the Diamondbacks, and I think they have a good plan for the upcoming off season.

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BREAKING NEWS: Paul Byrd Bought HGH

Cleveland Indians pitcher Paul Byrd, who is 2-0 with a 3.60 ERA in the postseason, bought 25,000 dollars worth of human growth hormones, according to the San Fransisco Chronicle. These purchases were made through credit card between 2002 and 2005 from a Florida anti-aging facility. Byrd is known for being a finesse pitcher, now receiving the title of clutch performer for his performance during the postseason. This season, he went 15-8 record with a 4.59 ERA; however, in his thirteen year career he is 97-81 with a 4.35 ERA. Although this may be hard to believe, he was coming off nearly a full year in the minors and may have looked for that extra push to make it to the big leagues. The following year, he went 17-11 with a 3.90 ERA. In 2003, he had Tommy John surgery and made a "quick" recovery and was able to return for the back end of the 2004 Braves season and playoffs. It seems like they might have got him, but it could not have come at a worse time.

UPDATE: Paul Byrd has never hid that he has taken HGH. It was prescribed by his doctor and he claims that it has been apart of his whole life. He talks about it in his new book, and I'm sure more questions will be asked after the season. For now however, it was prescribed by his doctor for personal off the field reasons that will be addressed more in the off season.

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Where Will Koskie Wind Up?

The Brewers declined Corey Koskie's 6.5 million dollar option making him a free agent. He last played in 2006, where in 76 games, he hit .261 with 12 HR and 33 RBI. He was suffering from a post concussion syndrome that sidelined him the whole year, but he has been cleared to play, and wants to play if the right opportunity presents itself. The Twins might go after him, but probably a non guaranteed deal with an invitation to Spring Training. His numbers haven't been impressive in several years, but taking a low risk can never hurt. Koskie is a leader and has a presence in the clubhouse, so he could mentor young players, and come off the bench for situational hitting. Other teams I suspect will be interested are the Giants, Phillies, Angels, White Sox, Tigers, and maybe the Yankees or Red Sox, but only at a minor league deal.

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Interview with Brandon Hynick

Last week, I emailed Rockies prospect Brandon Hynick to see if he was up for an interview for the site. He was happy to do it and we were finally able to get it done today. Hynick raised some eyebrows in the Rockies organization after his impressive year. He went 16-5 with a 2.52 ERA with 136 K. I do not think many doubt that this player will be with the Rockies in 2008 or 2009, he has great poise on the mound and has the stuff to make it. I want to thank Brandon Hynick for giving me this interview, I really appreciate it.

ELI: How long have you played baseball? Have you always been a pitcher?

BRANDON: I've played baseball since I was 5 and I started pitching when I was fourteen.

ELI: You hit pretty well 2005, why did you pick pitching over being a position player?

BRANDON: I knew I had a better future as a pitcher so once I got to college, it was a pretty easy decision. Plus, I like pitching a lot better than hitting.

ELI: Being a former hitter, do you feel you can out smart hitters because you used to be in those situations?

BRANDON: I think I definitely have an advantage since I am a former hitter. I understand situational hitting pretty well and I can read the swings of hitters to see what they are trying to do in each situation.

ELI: So what was it like getting drafted by the Rockies?

BRANDON: It was very exciting to be drafted by the Rockies. it really didn't matter what team I got drafted by but from what I've heard from other players, it is a good organization.

ELI: You ended last season in Low-A, what did you plan to work on most during the off season?

BRANDON: I actually ended last season in short season A and skipped low A. My plan for last offseason was pretty basic, I just wanted to get stronger and in better shape and make sure my arm was ready for spring training.

ELI: What were the biggest differences in Low-A and High-A?

BRANDON: The biggest differences in short season ball and High-A is that the hitters are a lot more patient and have a better plan going up to the plate. They also capitalize more on your mistakes.

ELI: You put up great numbers this season, did you notice anything working for you more than previous seasons?

BRANDON: I've been learning more and more each year on how to pitch. I've learned how important it is to throw inside and also how important it is to limit walks.

ELI: You struck out 11 in a one run complete game. What were you trying to do differently after you faced their hitters a second and a third time?

BRANDON: In that complete game, 11 K outing, I didn't do anything different really. I just executed my plan for each hitter really well, and I also had my best stuff that day.

ELI: Did you have a favorite player growing up?

BRANDON: My favorite player was always Kenny Lofton, being from Cleveland. He has always been very exciting to watch.

ELI: Do you have a favorite sports movie?

BRANDON: My favorite sports movie has to be Happy Gilmore, its absolutely hilarious.

ELI: Did Matt Holliday touch home plate?

BRANDON: Everyone says Holliday didn't touch home plate but I don't think the replays gave conclusive evidence. Basically, I think it's a possibility that he actually did touch home plate. But hey, it doesn't matter because the Rockies have more than proven that they belong in the World Series.

ELI: If there is one batter in the past that you could pitch to, who would it be?

BRANDON: I want to pitch to Phillip Laurent. He went to Liberty University and he went 9-10 off of me in 2 years, so I want another shot at him.

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Red Sox Might Let Lowell Walk

According to the Boston Globe, the Red Sox do not plan to offer Mike Lowell a deal longer than two years. This is good thinking by the Red Sox, but Lowell is definitely looking at something for three years, maybe four. Although I think the Red Sox and Lowell will work something out, maybe a two year deal with an option, they could let him walk and go for Alex Rodriguez. The Red Sox do a lot of research on aging players and have made good decisions in the past. They let Pedro Martinez and Johnny Damon walk, and both have struggled with injuries. They also let Derek Lowe leave after he carried them through the World Series, and he has had some off the field issues with the Dodgers and has just one winning season going 40-37 in three years. They could go after Miguel Cabrera if they let him walk. They do have good trade relations with them and are willing to trade a couple prospects to land him.

Mike Lowell does deserve to stay with the Red Sox. He is a good player, even if his numbers drop a little, a leader, and a competitor who gives it all every game. Also, I think the Red Sox would rather sign Lowell to a three year deal, worth 30-40 million dollars than give A-Rod 300 million, and lose their draft pick. They also probably do not want to give to two prospects for a third baseman who is putting on pounds, and will ask for a boatload of money in a couple years. We will see how the playoffs turn out, but I think the Red Sox will sign Lowell to a contract where the Red Sox are in control. Meaning there is a team option, nothing preventing trades, and incentives bringing down the total price.

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Royals To Name Hillman Manager

The Royals are nearing a deal with Nippon Ham Fighters manager Trey Hillman, a sleeper for the manager position in New York. Hillman is young, and could definitely make a successful transition back to the big leagues. I think he is very capable of being a good manager, understanding the philosophy of the Yankees and other teams because of his experience. Furthermore, because he coached in Japan, it could help expand the scouting program for the Royals into Japan. Hillman has been a candidate for several managerial positions in the past, but will finally get one when he finalizes his deal with the Royals this weekend.

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Report: Mattingly To Be Named Manager

Although I disagree with the idea, the Yankees are leaning towards making Don Mattingly their manager, according to an anonymous source. Mattingly, who was first the Yankees hitting coach before being promoted to bench coach, has learned a lot from Torre, but has never managed a game. I think a better choice would be Tony La Russa or Joe Girardi, but Mattingly is capable of doing the job. When it is all said and done, the Yankees are a team built on getting into the playoffs. Yes, they are slowing down at some positions, but they will get better. I do not think Mattingly will have too much trouble, I just think someone like Girardi or La Russa might handle the players better. Also, by holding on to Mattingly and some of the staff, they might be able to persuade some of the veterans to stay. Personally, I think it is terrible how they handled the Torre situation. Most baseball fans know that in negotiations, an offer is made and than countered on. The Yankees low balled Torre, knowing he would not take it, and cut their ties. If they wanted him back, they would have offered more, and if he declined, maybe they would let him walk then. I just think it is disrespectful to do to the manager who developed some of the players that have made the Yankees what they are today. He might be out of managing for good, but I could see him joining the broadcast booth. However, if the Braves spot does open next season I suspect Braves GM Frank Wren will try hard to bring Torre in, assuming the Cox is ready to hang it up.

"The Yankees are one of thirty teams now:" Mariano Rivera has decided to test the market. This is a good sign that his career with the Yankees may be over. As for teams interested, I expect the Phillies, Giants, and Orioles, among others, to be interested.

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Devil Rays Might Trade Crawford

If the Devil Rays are that desperate for pitching, they may be forced to trade Carl Crawford, rather than Rocco Baldelli. The Devil Rays and White Sox have worked over the past couple months on possible deals this off season that involve Jon Garland and Carl Crawford, according to industry sources. Crawford has been a great player for the Devil Rays and you would hate to see them give him up, but Crawford might be a free agent after the 2008 season, but he has an option which will be exercised wherever he is. He batted .315 with 11 HR, 80 RBI, and 50 SB, numbers that would definitely make the White Sox better. The White Sox would probably rather get rid of Contreras, but Garland is the more attractive player. They cannot trade Buehrle because he has a no-trade clause, Javier Vazquez also has one but put up great numbers this year so they wouldn't trade him anyways, John Danks will probably get a shot, along with young players Gavin Floyd, Gio Gonzalez, and maybe Jack Egbert. GM Kenny Williams has good relations with the Phillies and Brewers and could work a trade with the Brewers for Bill Hall, or a trade for Michael Bourn, who has great speed and the potential to have a decent bat. I think Williams will be able to acquire a solid outfielder, probably between Hall, Crawford, or Bourn. But here's a twist. What if he acquired Hall to play shortstop and then went after Crawford or Bourn for the outfield. Because the free agent market is so weak this year, expect trades to becoming more frequent.

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Interview with Peter Woodfork

This evening, I had the opportunity to interview the Assistant General Manager of the Diamondbacks Peter Woodfork. He has been with the Diamondbacks for three years and there is speculation that he will take over the GM spot for the Cardinals. For now however, he is working with the Diamondbacks, getting them ready for the off season. I want to thank Peter Woodfork for donating his time to the site, I really appreciate it.

ELI: How long have you been with the Diamondbacks?

PETER: It will be two years in November.

ELI: What are your day to day duties on the job?

PETER: I basically manage the information, people, and other things like that.

ELI: Do you talk with Josh Byrnes everyday?

PETER: Oh yeah, we talk several times a day.

ELI: Do most of the people in the Front Office have the same philosophy on the team?

PETER: I think we all have different opinions or perspectives, but we work them in to our payroll and how we determine the value of our players and everything. We have to work into our payroll because of the amount of money that goes around in the huge free agent market.

ELI: When Carlos Quentin went down, was there any other options than Justin Upton?

PETER: We looked in house and through trades and felt that Upton was the best option.

ELI: Was Carlos Gonzalez considered?

PETER: Yes, but we felt Upton was farther along than Gonzalez.

ELI: How important was it to sign Eric Byrnes?

PETER: Well we discussed a multi year deal last year when we went through arbitration, so a deal was definitely in sight. We like to sign guys that help our team and he is definitely a leader and comes to play everyday, so he is great to have in the clubhouse.

ELI: Livan Hernandez is set to hit the open market, have you talked with his agent at all?

PETER: Sorry, but I cannot discuss it at this time.

ELI: Is there anything you hope to focus on this off season?

PETER: Like most teams, I think it is pitching. We do not need to fill to many other positions so we will look to pitching.

ELI: Many teams are expanding their scouting to Australia, Japan, and Italy. Have you begun to do that?

PETER: Yeah. We have scouts in Japan and Australia and are looking to get bigger, but we are not as big as other teams.

ELI: Now where did you get your start in baseball?

PETER: I started in the Commissioners Office in the Media Relations department. I think I got more lucky than anything. I had some friends who were connected in baseball and they got my resume out there, so that is how it happened more than anything.

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End of an Era: Torre Says No

The Yankees offered Joe Torre a one year deal worth five million dollars guaranteed, which Joe Torre denied. This ends his twelve year run with the team and looking back on it, it has really been something. They have won four championships, made it to the playoffs twelve times, and developed some of the best players in the game. I do not know how it will effect some of the other players, but I'm sure Torre and La Russa might be finding homes now soon. Unless La Russa comes to manage the Yankees which now seems unlikely, Torre could manage the Cardinals. But it seems that La Russa will work something out with the Cardinals and Torre may be taking a year off from managing. The Royals might contact Torre but I doubt he would be interested. He could go to the Pirates because it is near his home, but to go from the Yanks to the Pirates would be a big adjustment. Bobby Cox might walk next season and it is possible to see Torre manage them in 2009. I agree with Torre's decision to walk away. Not only were the Yankees asking him to take a major pay cut, but to deal with the questions about returning and other things like that, it wasn't worth it. We could see Posada, Pettitte, and Rivera leave now which would definitely hurt the Yankees, but they now might look beyond Torre's absence. As for possible replacements, the reports that Mattingly isn't ready to manage will hurt him, so I think it will come down to Girardi and La Russa. I would be more happy with Girardi to be honest. He is young and knows how to manage the younger players. He played in New York and is familiar with the team and staff. I think we will find out in the next week or so about the final manager spots and where the Yankee players may look to go.

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Hunter Likes D.C.

Twins outfielder Torii Hunter is set to become a free agent and all reports suggest he will leave. He is talking about places he would like to go, and how he will not rule anyone out. Maybe he is trying to get more money from the Twins, I think he is really on his way out. He has said he would love to play near a black community, so he can be a community leader off the field: "I always talk to my wife about being interested in playing in front of the African-American fans and trying to get the African Americans back to playing the game," he said. "If I go to Atlanta or D.C. and make a difference that way, I would love it. Trust me -- D.C. is very interesting to me as well as Atlanta." I think the Nationals would love to have someone like Hunter and maybe they could afford him, but I just don't know. Personally, I would love to see him in Washington. It would put that team back on the radar to many baseball fans and could give them a jolt in the NL East. He is good friends with Dmitri Young, and the Nationals need an outfielder, so Jim Bowden would have to open his wallet up. They said they will not go after pitching, so they can sign Hunter and let the young players determine the rest. "I can't tell you [how much money] it will take to come to Washington -- not as a free agent," he said. "What's fair is fair. That's all that matters. That's one of many teams I will be watching. With Dmitri Young over there, it makes it very interesting." I see Hunter going for a five year deal, worth 15-17 million dollars. I know the market isn't good, but players are looking big and Hunter will definitely be one of them. Don't rule out the Twins yet though. They are planning to make an offer to Hunter and Hunter is interested in staying there. The best defensive outfielder on the market batted .287 with 28 HR, 107 RBI, and 18 SB. I expect the Phillies, Padres, Giants, Rangers, Yankees, and Orioles among others to be interested.

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Why Royals Will Not Sign Rowand

There has been speculation that the Royals will make a run at former Royal killer Aaron Rowand. I am sure many Royal fans would be excited to hear a career .331 hitter with 6 HR and 18 RBI at Kaufman Stadium would be joining the Royals, but do not get your hopes up. The initial asking price is for eighty-four million dollars over six years, so you can expect that to jump up to one-hundred million for six years, basically what Carlos Lee got. The Royals would love to have him, but have Gil Meche on their payroll and seem to prefer veterans and young players from their system. So, former number one pick Luke Hochevar will start for the Royals next season along with Alex Gordon, Billy Butler, Brian Bannister, and others. Yes, they are a long way from being one of those kinds of teams but signing someone like Rowand would not make a big difference. They would be better off going after someone like Kenny Lofton to teach these guys a thing or two and give him an everyday job. He would be cheaper and it would allow them to go with him in 2009 or pull someone from their system to take the spot. Chris Lubanski will probably be at Triple-A next season so bringing in Lofton would hold him back another year. He could use a full year at that level so it would be good for the Royals. Also, P Rowdy Hardy and Billy Buckner seem on their way so hopefully the team can bond and turn into a true contender in the AL Central by 2010. I think Rowand is a great player, but it would be a step in the wrong direction for the Royals financially. The team should look to replace Dayton Moore with a GM whose focus is on Player Development so they can focus on that more. I recommend Oneri Fleita, who has found great players all around the country, but he seems like the next in line to replace Jim Hendry of the Cubs.

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Mariners To Trade For Garland?

The Mariners are looking to improve their pitching staff this off season, and it will probably come through trade before exploring the weak free agent market. Names like Dontrelle Willis and Johan Santana come to mind, but it might cost them Adam Jones if they want to acquire him. They could offer Raul Ibanez or Richie Sexson because then that would clear a spot on the field to hold on to both Jones and Guillen, but it is unlikely. I think the best bet is White Sox pitcher John Garland, who is capable of racking up a lot of wins. Since 2002, he has been in the double-digits in wins, reaching 18 wins in '05 and '06. But looking at his recent numbers, I think the Mariners would be smart to stay away from him. Since 2004 against the AL West, he is 6-11 with a 4.42 ERA with 56 K. But, playing at SAFECO since 2002, he is 1-1 with a 3.60 ERA and 13 K so that would look pretty good making fifteen starts there, but he has struggled some on the road out there so I would be hesitant. Nonetheless, Bavasi is looking for an instant upgrade and he would find one in him for what he is willing to offer, and I think most would be happy with it.

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Cubs May Have Trading Partner

Former Cubs General Manager and President took the job of President of Baseball Operations with the Orioles and since then, has acquired three Cubs in Scott Moore, Rocky Cherry, and Roberto Novoa. There are also many former Cubs on the team which will probably be retained, especially Corey Patterson. There is a good side of this and definitely a bad side at the moment. The good side is that the Cubs could look to acquire someone like Miguel Tejada for several minor leaguers and major league ready players. I could see a trade looking like this: Miguel Tejada and cash to the Cubs for Sean Gallagher, Jim Henderson, Eric Patterson, and, Ronny Cedeno. That is a rough trade for now because I do not know how the Cubs rate some of their players, but they do not think much of Eric Patterson right now after he was late to several games and practices, and was not very effective at the major league level. But trading for Tejada would move Theriot to second base, DeRosa to right field, and Jones platooning with Pie in center field. I think it helps both teams but who knows if the Cubs want to unload some of their system to acquire Tejada, who has just two more years on his contract. But, he is aging and may be forced to switch positions, so the Cubs might be hesitant. The bad side, if the Cubs cannot reach a deal with Kerry Wood, he might walk and go to Baltimore and be with McPhail, who drafted and signed him. I think the Cubs and Wood feel the same way about returning next season, but who knows? Also, if the Cubs non-tender Prior, McPhail could look to add him too. They plan to sign former Iowa Cub pitching coach Rich Kranitz, so this all seems relatively possible because both Prior and Wood worked with Kranitz and one point in the past couple seasons. McPhail will look to upgrade anyway he can, and he might start with unloading the disgruntled Tejada, who was almost traded to the Cubs in 2005.

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GM Ricciardi On The Line?

The Blue Jays failed to make a big upgrade last off season to help their pitching. They seemed close to signing both Ted Lilly and Gil Meche, but missed out on both. They then signed John Thompson and Tomo Ohka in their place and now both are off the Blue Jays. The Jays did finish above .500 but are missing some key veterans that could make them a contender for the next several seasons. This coming offseason Ricciardi needs to land something or I think he should be let go. They could use an outfielder, and I think a good candidate for them would be Milton Bradley, Shannon Stewart, or maybe Cuban Alexei Ramirez, if the Jays are willing to take a chance on him. Also, Gregg Zaun is better suited as a backup and they could add someone like Michael Barrett, Ramon Castro, or maybe Jason Kendall. From there, they may look to trade or sign a shortstop, but with upgrades in the outfield and behind the plate should make them a better team.

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Chad Cordero On The Block?

The Nationals have solid hitters, but most could be fading soon. Chad Cordero has drawn a lot of interest and after he put up another great season, it is bound to happen again. What the Nationals need more than ever is pitching, young pitching. Ross Detwiler got his feet wet this year but I would start him next year in Triple-A or Double-A. The Yankees will probably resign Mariano Rivera but if they do not, they could trade Edwar Ramirez, Wilson Betemit, and another minor league pitcher or two for Chad Cordero. I think the Nationals will first ask for Chamberlain first, but will be denied. Ramirez showed great, downward movement on his pitches and is shaping up to be a solid reliever. The Orioles might be interested with Baez out for most of next season. They could trade Tejada and cash, but I doubt it. The Orioles do not seem ready to trade their young pitchers, so they seem unlikely. The Phillies would probably prefer to trade their young guys out of the division for a big name player, but they do need a closer and are looking to make a big splash. Other teams that could be interested in Cordero could be the Brewers, Giants, or Twins.

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Stoneman Out, Reagins In

Angels General Manager Bill Stoneman is stepping down and moving to a consultant role, according to CBSSportsline.com. It is believed that Tony Reagins, now director of player development will assume the role. It seems that the new wave of GM's come from a background of player development and know where the solid prospects are in each organization. Stoneman will be best remembered for building a a World Series champion in 2002, signing Vlad Guerrero and bringing in Bartolo Colon. He has found several young players including Francisco Rodriguez, John Lackey, Howie Kendrick, among others; but failed to make a big off season splash in back to back off seasons which is a rough ending to an impressive run. Some minor moves that turned out bad were letting Bobby Jenks get away in 2004, and mediocre draft picks over the past couple years which could have lead to a mutual position change. However, he did lead to a World Series victory in 2002 so you can't say his whole tenure was bad. Nonetheless, Stoneman will help and observe Reagins in his first season as GM.

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Bonds' Best Bet is Japan

I know that seems far fetched, but who really wants to sign him? There is not one National League team that is willing to put him out in the outfield and not many teams are looking to spend 12 million on a one year DH, even if he will bring people to the ballpark. He did lead the league in on-base percentage and OPS, but will probably come into 2008 without a job. According to sources, the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks may be willing to sign Bonds at the right price. Bonds does love playing over there, and it could start a new trend of veteran players heading to Japan towards the end of their career. However, there are four teams that I see interested in him if he takes a massive pay cut. The Tigers, Twins, Athletics, and Angels are the only teams that I see signing him if he takes a one year deal, around 10 to 13 million tops. I do not see the Athletics going beyond eight million to sign him and the Tigers seem more inclined on filling in for Sheffield until he returns than add someone like the Bonds, so rule them out. For the Twins, it is possible to see them go after him, especially if they cannot keep Hunter, which seems likely. But they might want to sign someone a little younger or give someone like Brandon Roberts or Garrett Guzman a shot. Also, Bonds wants to go to a contender, so he may not be interested if he holds true to his word. The Angels may have an opening but Reggie Willits did a great job for them while Brandon Wood could always be DH and platoon with Orlando Cabrera at short. He is approaching the 3,000 hit mark which might entice them more, but I do not know if that will make him worth 12 million. He does not have much playoff experience, and is already a disturbance in the clubhouse with the steroid allegations always surrounding him. Playing in Japan could separate him from that and give him a year or two more playing professional baseball. For now however, I do not think his ego is ready to play in Japan.

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Cubs Eye Kuroda

In 2006, the Cubs were said to be close to signing an unknown Japanese pitcher. At the time, many thought it was Kei Igawa, but according to an anonymous NL Executive, that pitcher was Hiroki Kuroda. Kuroda, 32, is a veteran in Japan and will probably be a number four starter if he were to join the Cubs. This season, he was 12-8 with a 3.56 ERA and 123 Ks. He won 13 in 2006 and 15 the year before that, so he is capable of being successful. The only thing that worries me with him is that he did give up 20 HR and that would not look well in the Major Leagues. But, he has had a pretty low ERA so he must have some good downward movement. I'm sure the Cubs would love to sign another pitcher, especially someone who hasn't been seen much by American players. The only other known team to be interested is the Mariners.

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The Latest Red Sox, Yankee Feud

Last off season, the Yankees and Red Sox feuded over who could sign the best Japanese import with the winner definitely being the Red Sox. This off season, although it may be minor, it may be over Leo Mazzone. The Yankees pitching coach Ron Guidry's contract expires and with the best pitching coach in recent memory available, they could let Guidry walk. The Red Sox pitching coach, John Farrell, has done a very good job for them this year but is a candidate for a managerial position. Farrell has ties to Pirates GM Neal Huntington back in Cleveland, and industry sources believe the reason they are taking so long is because they are waiting on him, among others to become available. I think he would do wonders for the Pirates especially after working with Terry Francona. So, who would the Red Sox find to replace Farrell? Mazzone was just with the Orioles and knows more than other coaches around the league about each staff, so it does make sense. Could we be looking at the largest contract for a pitching coach in history? Maybe, maybe not. But I do think both will be looking to if they can.

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Marlins Should Sign Benson

The Marlins need a veteran to head their rotation because Dontrelle Willis is young and had his second bad year with the Marlins. It is possible that the pressure of leading a young rotation has gotten to him, so maybe if they do not trade him they could bring in a veteran pitcher like Kris Benson. Benson is known for being a pretty consistent pitcher in the past. He could definitely string together 8-11 wins for the Marlins, and he would sign for cheap having been injured the whole season. In 2006, he was 11-12 with a 4.82 ERA and 88 K. I expect him to get a one year deal, worth about 2-3 million dollars with incentives.

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Interview with Jerry Blevins

Yesterday morning, I had the chance to talk with Oakland A's pitcher Jerry Blevins. Blevins was all over the place this season having donned five different jersey's for two teams. He was a top pitching prospect for the Cubs, but traded him to acquire Jason Kendall, who definitely helped get them into the playoffs. But Billy Beane has an eye for talent, and probably sees Blevins in his bullpen for the next several years to come. I want to thank him and Adam Bierman of XTS Sports for setting up this interview for me, I really appreciate it.

ELI: You started off strong this season in the minors keeping your pitches down and getting solid downward movement on your pitches. What did you do in the off season to get off to that kind of start?

JERRY: We actually started the year before after I went back to short season. We went back to over the top from sidearm and we realized that I had bad mechanical things that were leaving the ball up. I was able to finish strong in the last two weeks and move into the off season to improve upon them. I played Winter Ball in Venezuela where I could work on it a lot more and improve on keeping the ball down and getting downward movement on it.

ELI: You were a walk on at Dayton, what were your main reasons for trying out?

JERRY: Well I love playing and wanted to continue playing if I could. I went to a small high school in Northwest Ohio called Arcadia, where we only graduated thirty-four kids, so there wasn't much exposure. I actually went to Dayton on an academic scholarship and my love for baseball is the reason I went out.

ELI: What was the tryout like?

JERRY: It was really basic. I think I threw like four pitches and they liked what they saw so they asked me to stay with the team.

ELI: Was it hard making the switch from side arm to over the top?

JERRY: It was actually harder throwing sidearm. When I made the switch back I had like an epiphany. It was a renewal of love for pitching and I just wanted to enjoy it.

ELI: What would you say is your best pitch?

JERRY: My fastball.

ELI: You jumped around all season, what was it like to finally make it to the big leagues?

JERRY: It was everything I could have dreamed of and more. I think it was the fifth jersey and each time I was in a different place I would try and set goals for moving up to the next level. When I got called up to the A's, it was like cashing in on all my hard work-it was incredible and surreal.

ELI: Did you get a chance to talk with Billy Beane following the trade?

JERRY: No. I actually talked to David Forst, the special assistant, about the trade. He gave me the details and just told me how excited the organization was to have me. That gave me a lot of confidence and really motivated me to do well.

ELI: I'm sure you know about the A's and how they like to try out their youth in their minor league system, was that something you thought about after you were traded?

JERRY: Definitely. When you go from a big market team like the Cubs where they go and can spend big money on big name players, you do not see youth really coming up with the team. So when I was traded to the A's, where they do not have much funding and cannot go after big market players, you get to see a lot of young talent. Having read Moneyball, I was very excited about the transition.

ELI: Of the stadiums you've played at, do you have a favorite one?

JERRY: The Coliseum is great. The fans are great, it is like a family. Away from there, I really like Jacobs Field. It was a homecoming for me being able to pitch in front of my family-

ELI: Did you have any gnat invasions?

JERRY: [Laughs] No, I didn't have any Joba Chamberlain-like experiences.

ELI: What is the funniest mound visit conversation you have had?

JERRY: This is definitely the most memorable. Andrew Brown hit Vlad Guerrero on a 2-2 pitch and when I was called in, it was me, [Kurt] Suzuki, and Bob Geren on the mound when the ump walked out. He issued warnings which Geren didn't like and to be able to listen to the exchange they had back and forth was neat. You know the fans always see that they are arguing but never know what they are saying. So to be in there in the heat of it was memorable.

ELI: What was the team consensus: Kanye or 50 Cent?

JERRY: [Laughs] It was Kanye. We played his new album in the clubhouse and people were buzzing about it, so yeah, it was definitely Kanye.

ELI: You went 0-2 on David Murphy, what were you trying to do from there?

JERRY: The situation was good. I was trying to put him away and execute my pitch. You always try to stay consistent and to be at this level you definitely have to be. I threw him a curveball down and away and got him to swing at it. It was an incredible way to start off my career.

ELI: Would you say consistency and keeping a level head are the biggest things in making it to the next level?

JERRY: Oh yeah. The biggest difference in talent in A-ball is guys that can adjust and get better from there. I've seen guys down there that can throw 100 mph but cannot adjust or move on from a bad game.

ELI: What was it like pitching in back to back games, did you do anything different?

JERRY: It was our second game in Cleveland, and you get ready before every game just in case so it wasn't like I was not ready to pitch.

ELI: Did you try to adjust so hitters didn't have the advantage?

JERRY: No, you got to put the game behind you and not think about it. I watched some tape Thursday to see if I could pick up some hitters tendency's but other than that, you cannot do much.

ELI: Did you have a favorite player growing up?

JERRY: Yeah, I had quite a few. Ken Griffey Jr. was a big favorite of mine growing up in Ohio. Being a pitcher though, I liked Barry Zito and Randy Johnson a lot too. If I had to pick up hitter and one pitcher that enjoyed watching, it would be Griffey and Johnson.

ELI: Were you apart of the rookie hazing?

JERRY: Unfortunately, I had to wear a dress. We were on the road in Boston and had to leave the park, go to the airport, and go to the hotel in the dresses. And we stayed at a classy hotel and it just so happened that they were shooting a movie there with some big name actors. I got to meet Kate Hudson, and she was like the first celebrity I met from outside of baseball, and I was in a dress. [Laughs]

ELI: If you could pitch to one batter in the past, who would it be?

JERRY: Ted Williams. I just love everything he did, how he played, and acted.

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Sunday's Finest

Reds sign Baker: The Reds have reached an agreement with former Cubs and Giants manager Dusty Baker. It is a three year deal, and might be announced next week depending on the playoff situation. Bud Selig isn't for making announcements during the playoffs, but we will see. As I said several days ago, I see Dusty going with some of his former guys from Chicago. Gene Clines, Dick Pole, and others; however, I think the focus of his coaching might be towards pitching, because that is definitely their biggest weakness.

George Steinbrenner passes on reigns: The Bosses, Hank and Hal Steinbrenner, are the new bosses of New York. The Boss, whose health is getting worse, will move to chairman or supervisor but this is the first sign that his health is really starting to fail. If you remember from July, we brought it up that his health could be failing and I think the Yankees have finally decided to acknowledge it.

Castillo, Green, Hope to stay: Both Luis Castillo and Sean Green hope to stay in New York. Both had good seasons with the Mets, but I think it only makes sense to hold on to Castillo. Letting Green walk allows them to go younger, especially with the good market of outfielders. Kosuke Fukudome, Torii Hunter, Corey Patterson, maybe even Kenny Lofton to be a stop gap for Fernando Martinez. If they want, they could even go Gomez, Beltran, Milledge, but I think Minaya wants to test the waters.

Marlins to go after Lo Duca: Miguel Olivo is probably heading elsewhere and many now believe that the Marlins will open up their wallets for a veteran catcher like Paul Lo Duca. Personally I would go with Michael Barrett, but the veteran presence would help with the younger players.

Andy Marte to Philadelphia?: The Indians seem pretty adamant with going with Beau Mills, who is showing potential in the minors. The Indians are very high on him, and with Andy Marte showing little promise with his bat, he is probably on his way out. I see Philadelphia taking a chance on him while possibly going with someone else for the time being. It wouldn't cost much, and it could work out for the better. The Marlins could also make a run for him. He would be a cheap upgrade and is still protected for a couple years.

Schilling to Philadelphia, too?: Curt Schilling, who represents himself, has said he would be willing to go back to Philadelphia if the Red Sox were not interested. I think Schilling would be smart to go to the National League career wise, but I think morally he will stay in Boston. He is a hero and a legend there, and his family is out there now too. The Phillies do need pitching and Schilling doesn't seem to mind toying with the Red Sox, so he might just leave. The Phillies are starting to spend money and are looking for another big bat this off season, so he might want to try and bring a World Series to Philadelphia. He wanted to return back in 2004, but stayed in Arizona where he was later traded to Boston.

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Cardinals Near Extension With Piniero

The Cardinals have begun talking with Joel Piniero about a multi year contract, according to the St. Louis Post Dispatch. The Cardinals would be smart to sign Piniero even though he had a 4+ ERA and a 7-5 record. But he was 6-4 with a 3.96 ERA in eleven games with the Cardinals, so he could definitely improve upon that next season. He is a good reliever and could even join the rotation if needed. The market price is increasing for pitchers, but I'm sure the Cardinals could get a three year deal, worth 11-14 million dollars total at the most. Piniero would really like to go somewhere he can start, so the Cardinals would have to at least let him begin in the rotation to continue. Because they are interviewing for the General Manager position and trying to hold on to Tony La Russa, I think talks will be slow, but will have something done after the World Series. The Cardinals also would like to get that done so they can work on signing David Eckstein. The Cardinals plan to address their pitching situation along with the center field spot because Jim Edmonds is slowing down and this will be last year in awhile that such a group of center fielders will be available.

UPDATE: The Cardinals signed Joel Piniero to a two year deal worth 13 million dollars.

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Brewers Counting On Rookies

Don't expect to hear to much from Milwaukee this off season. They are investing in their rookies to lead them to the playoffs and bring them there second winning season in fifteen years. The Brewers used Fielder, Weeks, Hardy, Braun, Gallardo, Villanueva, and Parra to hold the division lead for most of the season, but fell apart in September. Much of that can be accredited to playing an extra month in the bigs, especially for Braun, and their young pitchers. Their bullpen was pretty solid the whole season, but I expect them and these young guys to get a lot better. It would be hard not to pick them for next year, especially because these younger players who helped so much now have a season under their belt. Corey Hart is a lock in right field with Hall possible on his way out through a trade. Jenkins has a nine million dollar club option which will probably be declined so he can sign for something smaller, or they will pursue other options. Matt LaPorta is making great strides down in Fall Ball and could be up next season. Kenny Lofton is a free agent and would sign for cheap and be a stop gap for there other prospects. It would also give them a legitimate leadoff man. You could then move Hall to left and platoon him with Mench, who has great power too. The late innings are set for the Brewers with Turnbow, Aquino, Linebrink, and Cordero, but a long reliever like Jeremy Affeldt or LaTroy Hawkins to go in early and lead to those guys would help out a lot. The Brewers and Cubs will be gunning for another playoff spot the whole season, and it will probably come down to the end with them playing each other in the final three games of the season.

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Boras Will Have To Settle For Less

With all this talk about his new contract and where he will play it is pretty safe to say that Alex Rodriguez will opt out. Rodriguez is coming off one of his best years in his career, batting .314 with 54 HR and 156 RBI. But he has struggled massively in the post season, which I think will hurt him in contract negotiations. But, he can hit at least 35 home runs for the next several seasons and bat close to .290 or .300. His agent, Scott Boras, is calling for a 10 year deal worth 300 million dollars. Now we all know that Boras has done this before with Carlos Beltran and others, but 300 million is outrageous for someone who hasn't helped the Yankees make it to a World Series. Other than Rodriguez, the other nine regular starting third baseman batted a combined .273 with an average of 13 homers and 67 RBIs while making an average 5 million dollars. A-Rod made 22 million dollars. Yes he did give them an extra 41 home runs but baseball is too much a team sport where superstars can't do everything. Look at the teams in the playoffs. They are built on a minor league system, and letting their younger players develop. Theo Epstein has gone out and done was is best for the team. Look his leading the Red Sox right now-two players he acquired from the Marlins, Mike Lowell and Josh Beckett. He has stuck with Tim Wakefield after all these years and his given guys like Youkilis, Pedroia, and soon Ellsbury a chance to shine. The Indians are the same way such that fourteen players on their playoff roster have been with the Indians their whole career. Two of them came over after their first year. That kind of chemistry and trust from the manager and Front Office really goes a long way with a team like that. "Once you're on the field … payroll is not a factor. It's just two teams playing baseball."—Indians GM Mark Shapiro. The Yankees, on the other hand, have 12, but five of them are rookies this year. Do I even need to mention the Rockies or Diamondbacks? I have no doubt that a team like the Dodgers, Giants, or Angels will throw a 8-10 year deal worth 220-230 million dollars. He will still be making close to thirty million, with the overall pay down. Hopefully they will get a couple opt clauses in case Rodriguez crumbles as he gets older, but I do not think Boras will allow something like this. Some team is willing to give Boras whatever he wants, and they will ultimately pay in the end.

Phil Rogers, Source

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Is Piniella On His Way Out?

The Yankees plan on meeting in Tampa next week to discuss Joe Torre's status with the team. Many names are surfacing as being possible candidates, but not Lou Piniella. Piniella is under contract with the Cubs till 2009, but has said he would listen if the Yankees were looking for a new manager. This was brought up last October when the Cubs signed Lou: There are no escape clauses in his contract so he can walk when he chooses. Although I would not want to see Lou Piniella leave the Cubs, I wouldn't be upset with someone like Joe Girardi managing the team. He wanted the team last year and missed out, but almost lead the Marlins to the playoffs the year before. The reason why it wouldn't be the end of the world is because the Cubs would get something in return from the Yankees. When Lou Piniella walked away from the Mariners to join the Devil Rays, the Devil Rays sent Randy Winn and a minor leaguer to the Mariners because he left. If the Yankees do sign Piniella and he leaves the Cubs, it would be fair to say the Cubs could get Johnny Damon and cash. Winn batted .298 with 14 HR and 75 RBI the year he was traded to the Mariners while Damon batted .270 with 12 HR and 63 RBI this year. Yes Damon has had a better career than Winn but he is the odd man out in the Yankee outfield and trading him to the Cubs gets him out of the league where he can't hurt them and it clears the way for Melky Cabrera. Also, the Cubs are looking for an outfielder and with the sale of the Cubs, they do not have much money to spend. Damon is making 13 million for the next two seasons and if the Yankees were to take 8 to 10 million of that contract for the next two seasons, it could happen. Damon would play center field for the Cubs while Jacquie Jones would move to right field and it would also allow the Cubs to trade top prospect Felix Pie while his value is still high. Or, he could be mentored by Damon and Jones for the next two years until he is ready for an everyday job.

Why it helps the Yankees?: The Yankees are looking for a manager and need someone who can manage in a big city, and handle the media. He has done wonders with young talent and with the plethora coming up to New York, their potential for the future is through the roof. Lou is also one of the only managers who is good friends with George Steinbrenner, and knows how to handle him. Furthermore, Mariano Rivera and Jorge Posada respect Lou Piniella from interactions in the years past and might not walk if he were to come in.

Why it helps the Cubs?: Although Lou Piniella was loved by his players, he did put stress on some of them as well. He did play favorites often throughout the year and often criticizes players openly to the media. Players like Michael Barrett and Jason Marquis were both criticized by Piniella who suggested they should be traded. However, he gave the Cubbies their swagger and now they are used to his style of play. They would have a hard time adjusting to a new coaching staff just after adjusting to a new manager. He also fired them up in late June and sent them into the playoffs which is why I am against it. Imagine a lineup with Damon at the top of the order:

CF Johnny Damon
2B Mark DeRosa
LF Alfonso Soriano
1B Derrek Lee
3B Aramis Ramirez
RF Jacque Jones
C Geovanny Soto
SS Ryan Theriot
P

For Cubs fans, when it is all said and done it isn't up to them. It is up to the Yankees and if they want Piniella. Then, the decision goes to him. I do not see this happening just because I think the Yankees will see how valuable Torre is to them, but it wouldn't surprise me if this happened in lets say, two years.

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Mailbag: Playoff Predictions

Q: Everyone is talking about Ubaldo Jimenez and I was wondering what you thought about him and if you think he will be a stud tonight against the Diamondbacks?

Jeffery, Rocky Mountain

ELI: Although Jimenez has done very well this season and he is the hottest pitcher for the Rockies, I do not think he will be as dominating as he has been. However, Doug Davis is more of a finesse pitcher so I think Jimenez can afford to give up a couple runs, especially if the Rockies come up hitting. This is a much bigger game and he will be nervous, so don't expect a shutout performance.

Q: With the four teams left in the playoffs, who will win?

Chris Ogden, Seattle

ELI: The playoffs are always settled by the team that gets on the best streak. It is rare that you see the best team on paper win the World Series. This year it might happen though with the Red Sox. They are so good and have so many players that have played in the playoffs that I think they will over power a team like the Diamondbacks or Rockies. The Red Sox have good pitching, great hitting, and a pretty solid bullpen. Although these young guys have outplayed a couple veteran teams, they will be going up against the two best teams in the American league I do not know if they can handle it. Again, if the Rockies take it in four it would hard to not pick them to continue the streak against the Sox.

Q: What do you think of the playoff series order: 5-7-7?

Kurt, Montreal

ELI: They have to get it in to work with the off season and Spring Training and everything but I think it should be 7-7-7. With a five game series, there is no room for error, and you do not get to see the teams intangibles which win ballgames. If you see only three starters and the same three lineups, you do not see what they are capable of. A seven game series gives teams a chance to use their whole roster, and work what teams don't usually see.

Q: I saw you mentioned that Schilling should start before Matsuzaka before it was announced. Why did you think that?

Ted, Boston

ELI: The reason I said that was because it would give Matsuzaka, who has complained of a tired arm, a chance to rest an extra day. Also, imagine a two old lead followed by a dominant rookie, it would be hard to come back from that. I also said that with the Diamondbacks. I think they should start Micah Owings in Game 3 so he isn't out of form when he finally does pitch. He is a solid pitcher with a good bat as well and if he is able to win, Livan Hernandez is ready to put the Diamondbacks back on top. We'll see what happens.

Thanks for the questions, if you would like to ask me a questions email me at mlbrumors@gmail.com

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Orioles Fire Leo Mazzone

After two seasons with the Baltimore Orioles, they have fired the most celebrated pitching coach in modern baseball. Mazzone is known for developing some of the best pitchers in the game including Greg Maddux, John Smoltz, and Tom Glavine. He joined the Orioles to be with longtime friend Sam Perlozzo, but when he was fired in June, his dismissal appeared imminent. Although we saw great strides from Erik Bedard, Adam Loewen, and Jeremy Guthrie, we also saw collapses from some of the other pitchers on the staff. There are several managers looking for coaching staffs so Mazzone will probably find a job. The Orioles considered Mazzone their best free agent pick up back in 2006, but they obviously were not impressed with his performance. The Reds, Pirates, Royals, Mariners, Cardinals, Marlins, and maybe the Yankees will all be looking for a pitching coach, so he will be picked up quick. I expect the Pirates and Reds to be very interested in them because both have weak, young pitching. If Wayne Krivsky sees the team as I do, he would be smart to pick up Mazzone so he can mold pitchers Homer Bailey, Richie Gardner, and Tyler Pelland, all solid prospects in the Reds system. I'll say it again, the Reds have great offense but lack good pitching which would make them a contender. You could also see the Pirates go after him because Neal Huntington is big on player development, and if sees raw talent in a pitcher, Mazzone might be able to find something to improve his game, like he did with Maddux, Smoltz, and Glavine. "Baltimore will still be responsible for Mazzone's full salary, which is reportedly worth $500,000, but will pay less if he takes another job.". A sleeper this off season to add Mazzone is the Nationals, whose owner, Stan Kasten, is connected to the Braves when Mazzone was there. But Randy St. Claire is there and no one seems to be complaining with him right now so we will see.

UPDATE: Calls were put in to Reds General Manager Wayne Krivsy and Mariners General Manager Bill Bavasi regarding the issue, but were not returned.

UPDATE 1: It has been confirmed by the Newark Star Ledger the Yankees have interest in Leo Mazzone.

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Dusty Baker To Manage Reds?

According to major league the sources, the Reds have interviewed Dusty Baker for their vacant managing position and could be ahead of the other candidates. It seems the Reds will not wait for La Russa to make a decision and will jump on an available manager while they can. It seems that Dusty Baker, Joe Girardi, Bob Brenly, and Pete Mackanin are the final four in the running for the job, but it is very early. I think the Reds are interested in a high profile manager and Baker, a three time manager of the year who led the Giants to the World Series and the Cubs to the NLCS. Taking a year off was good for Baker and going somewhere like Cincinnati where the fan base isn't huge and the team is on the brink of being in contention in the division reminds me of what happened in 2003 with the Cubs. He will be managing against the same division he managed against between 2003 and 2006, and being an analyst for the past year with ESPN who has been covering this division, he has a good understanding of what they are capable of. He could bring back some of his coaching staff from his time with the Cubs who had success with some of the players like Gene Clines, who is currently with the Dodgers. He could also bring Chris Speier as a base coach and outfield instructor along with Dick Pole, who is currently the Reds pitching coach. I think the best move would be to try Baker, who is a players favorite and veteran of the game.

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Astros Should Go After Iguchi

Tadahito Iguchi is coming off a solid second half with the Philadelphia Phillies after struggling with the White Sox. He hit .304 with 3 HR and 12 RBI in 45 games with the Phillies, but has the potential to hit 17-18 homeruns and hit around the .290 mark. He is a pretty good fielding second baseman who has good speed, but doesn't steal too many bases. He balances out any lineup he is in by being a righty with good power to both sides of the field. He is comfortable batting anywhere in the lineup and because he is coming off a down year, he will come at a low price, probably around four to five million annually. I expect the Rockies, Astros, and maybe the Mets to be interested in him, but he might end up returning to Japan. The Astros would be smart to try and sign him because they have an opening at second base with Biggio retiring, and Chris Burke doesn't seem like he can handle an everyday job. It would give them a good bat in the bottom half of the order and it would give them at least 20 homeruns with a good average because the dimensions definitely play into his favor. He also has played teams in the NL Central repeatedly, so he won't feel that he has to adjust or anything. Hopefully Ed Wade sees the value in Iguchi so he can improve Astros, who just two years ago were in the World Series.

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Yankees Will Keep Torre

Joe Torre will likely stay Yankees manager because the Yankees are taking so long to make a decision on what to do with him. They realize that no is better for the job than him, and holding on to him is better for the team, even if Steinbrenner doesn't like their playoff performance. Although Don Mattingly has been with the Yankees for a long time, I do not think he is ready to handle managing a big time team like this. If I were them, I would like to see him manage at the Triple-A level rather than just giving him a job with no experience. Or Mattingly would be better off walking and managing a team like the Reds or Royals to get some experience under his belt. He could then return to New York and take over the team if the job is open after sometime as a manager. Girardi has experience and has a close relationship with some of his former teammates while Tony La Russa has been managing for over a decade. Steinbrenner will listen to other peoples opinions and would be better off listening to some of his assistants who are more in tune with the organization who understand what they need. Joe Torre will stay as manager which means they might lose both Joe Girardi and Don Mattingly, but having Torre is better for his players who have only been managed by him in their career.

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Interview with Curtis Granderson

This evening, I had the chance to interview outfielder Curtis Granderson of the Tigers. This season, Granderson accomplished the 20-20-20-20 feat joining Willie Mays, Frank Schulte, and now Jimmy Rollins. In his second major league season as a starter, he has established himself as a true competitor and a threat with his bat and glove. Granderson goes out of his way to connect with fans. He has an ESPN Blog and a Myspace page, and does interviews almost weekly with sites and media outlets. I want to thank John Fuller of Full Athlete Marketing for setting this up for me. We first connected on this back in April and he stood true to his word and got this interview done for me, I really appreciate it.

ELI: Besides baseball, what other sports do you play?

CURTIS: I love to play basketball but I haven't played in awhile. But if I could get back on the court and play I definitely would.

ELI: What veteran player of coach has made the biggest impact on your game since being called up?

CURTIS: It was a combination of people that really helped me with my game. The hitting coach for the Tigers in 2004 along with my Arizona Fall league manager. Andy Van Slyke helped me a lot in the outfield as well. I think the combination of those guys helped me with my game the most.

ELI: In 2005 you had a crazy week which featured an inside the park homerun, a five hit game, and a walk off homerun. Did you start to get the feeling that you might have established yourself at the major league level?

CURTIS: Not really. My timing wasn't great and I was only there for about fifty days. It was exciting, but I do not think I could call it home yet. I still had a lot of work to do.

ELI: Easter Sunday in Kansas City, you passed out autographed eggs with candy inside. What is your main reason for being so involved with the fans.

CURTIS: I think it is because I was a fan once and I remember going to the games and seeing the players was definitely a high point and now that I have that chance to do the same. I am always out there early and want to get back so it is something I always like to do.

ELI: You were number twenty-eight, what is the significance to that number?

CURTIS: There isn't much significance too it. Ironically, my favorite numbers are two and eight but that isn't how I got twenty-eight. When I was at UIC it was assigned to me and after I got my call up I was originally given 26. During the 2004 off season we acquired Vance Wilson who got Chris Shelton's number who then took my number twenty-six. When I got a call from the clubhouse manager he said he switched my number. I was worried it was going to be seventy-five or something like but when he told me it was twenty-eight, so I was okay with that. I just hope I keep that number from now on.

ELI: Can you think of one pitcher who has given you consistent trouble each time you faced him?

CURTIS: Bobby Jenks, the closer for the White Sox. I tend to face him when the momentum is on his side, when his slider is ranging from 90-99 mph and I just seem to struggle every time. I'm either 0-7 with six strikeouts or 0-8 with seven strikeouts, so it isn't good.

ELI: I know this topic may have split the clubhouse in two, but who was it: Kanye or 50 Cent?

CURTIS: Hands down it was Kanye. People were talking about it on the iPods, iPhone, and other things like that. I heard some great things about 50 Cent and he isn't bad or anything but Kanye really out did himself.

ELI: Do you have a favorite song from the CD?

CURTIS: Yeah, it is the new single-Good Life.

ELI: Who is the funniest guy in the clubhouse?

CURTIS: Vance Wilson is usually making jokes and having a good time, but he was injured and wasn't there much. Magglio [Ordonez] is surprisingly one of the funny guys. He comes in to the clubhouse and within five minutes he just starts laughing and you can hear him, and you know it is him, from across the room. Sometimes I'll just look at him and we'll start laughing.

ELI: Who would you find sleeping in the dugout during the game?

CURTIS: I'd probably be on that list because I love my sleep [laughs]. Sean Casey, depending on what's going on. Me and him will probably be hiding out in the back talking about wrestling and just doze off and when we wake up, it is our turn to bat. Someone who would not be sleeping is Kenny Rogers. He is always up and loud in the dugout.

ELI: Who was your favorite player growing up?

CURTIS: Ken Griffey Jr.

ELI: If you could rob one player of a homerun, who would it be?

CURTIS: I cannot think of one particular player but I would want to do it in a big situation. Former Tiger Nook Logan, who is now with the Nationals, was running back on Bonds' homerun and although it was gone, he tried to jump up and grab it. If I had to opportunity to rob a homerun like that, I think that is something I would want to do and be able to have that ball.

ELI: Growing up in Chicago, were you a Cubs fan or Sox fan?

CURTIS: I was not against the Cubs, but I guess I was more of a Cubs fan. I did really like the Braves though; but who didn't in the mid-nineties with Maddux, Glavine, and all those guys.

ELI: This series with Diamondbacks and Rockies, what do you think about it before it starts?

CURTIS: The Rockies and Diamondbacks are both very exciting teams who are fighting for recognition. They both have had the same amount of time off, so they will be a little rusty, but it should be very exciting.

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What's Wrong With Pierre?

The Dodgers have recently suggested that they will move Juan Pierre to left to make room for a free agent center fielder like Torii Hunter or Andruw Jones. That doesn't make sense to me, and many others who have heard this story. Pierre played in all 162 games for the Dodgers and made five errors while batted .293 with 0 HR 41 RBI, 64 SB, and a .331 OBP. Matt Kemp will be playing right field and if Pierre is moved to left, Ethier will be without a spot. Ethier is growing into a solid power hitter, with the potential to hit 20+ homeruns and hit around the .300 mark. Yes bringing in Hunter or Jones would help their lineup, but with Pierre's salary and Schmidt's salary, it doesn't look good in the long run. Maybe trading Ethier and Kershaw could bring in a solid pitcher and that would make room for one of these free agents, but they should make sure they have one near signing so they do not throw away two potent prospects for nothing. Personally, if they added a solid third baseman through trades or on the free agent market they would better off leaving Ethier, Pierre, and Kemp. Not only does it save money, but they will have control over them longer and are already making an impact in the lineup.

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Under the Radar Free Agent: Michael Barrett

Michael Barrett was known for his bat in 2005 and 2006, but struggled badly this season for the Cubs and Padres. His struggles can be accredited to his troubled relationship with manager Lou Pineilla from the start of Spring Training, but no one doubts his power and potential to hit over .300 with 15+ homeruns. He is probably looking at a two to three year deal worth about 4.5 million dollars annually. But, if he rebounds, which many expect him to do, he could be compared to Ivan Rodriguez who is getting payed 13 million next season. Who knows who will be interested? Whether it is the Mets, Yankees, Padres, Rockies, Nationals, or Athletics, he is worth the money because of his positive upside.

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Power Hitter Tops Angels List

Although Angels owner Arte Moreno has shot down rumors that the Angels will go for Alex Rodriguez, we all know that they are looking for a power hitter. Even if Mike Lowell hits the market, the Angels will look for someone who will hit homeruns and drive in runners. Adrian Beltre has being shopped by the Mariners in previous off seasons and might finally get traded if the Angels are interested. Beltre has twenty-four million dollars left on his contract for the next two years and the Mariners would definitely have to chip in cash to get some young prospects in return. Beltre has batted .321 with 8 HR since 1999 at Angels Stadium. This season, he batted .276 with 26 HR, 99 RBI, and 14 SB in 149 games with the Mariners. Although he made eighteen errors, the Angels are more interested in his bat than his glove. If Adrian Beltre isn't available or the Angels are not able to pull off a trade, they could look to the Orioles and try and pull off a trade for disgruntled shortstop Miguel Tejada, but only if he is willing to switch to third base. He played seven seasons in the AL West and played in 1,552 consecutive games, so there is no doubt that he is reliable. The injury this year was a freak accident that hasn't seemed to effect his swing. He batted .296 with 18 HR and 81 RBI while batting .272 with 8 HR against the Angels in Anaheim throughout his career. Either one would fill the whole at third base and if Brandon Wood appears ready in Spring Training, one could switch to the DH spot. Or they could play Tejada or Beltre and get Wood his at-bats while trying to convert him back to shortstop, that works too. Orlando Cabrera is a free agent after 2008 and could be traded to give Wood the everyday spot. He has played three games at shortstop this season but he is athletic enough to make the switch. Bill Stoneman will definitely shop his players to get a big name bat for his lineup. Whether it is Alex Rodriguez, Adrian Beltre, Miguel Tejada, or Miguel Cabrera, something will go down this off season.

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White Sox Need Passionate Players

The White Sox surprisingly finished in the bottom half of their division after key players Jermaine Dye, A.J. Pierzynski, and Jose Contreras got off to slow starts. But I do not think it was an off year for certain players that caused their problems. What the White Sox are lacking are true, passionate players. Rarely do the you see White Sox players legging out a double, or scoring from first base. It is mostly station to station baseball. They need a player who will get on base, steal some bases, and run everything out; players that come to play every single day and bring up the clubhouse morale on their own. Players like David Eckstein and Aaron Rowand come to mind, both being courted by the Sox. Kenny Williams would be very smart to sign these players because it would give them speed at the top of the order, more power in the middle, and a solid glove in the infield and a reckless outfielder and former White Sox in Rowand. Rowand rarely lets a ball get away from him, running into walls and diving for just about everything. It would probably cost them about 70-75 dollars for both in total salary, but it would be worth it nonetheless. You can expect Rowand to cost 4-5 years worth 50 million dollars while Eckstein would be 3-4 years worth about 20-25 million dollars. Rowand batted .309 with 27 HR and 89 RBI with 6 SB while Eckstein batted .309 with 3 HR and 31 RBI with 10 SB. You can assume that the White Sox will let Juan Uribe walk unless Eckstein resigns with the Cardinals. Putting those numbers in their lineup would make them better and probably put them back in the hunt for the division. If Aaron Rowand signs elsewhere, it is possible to see the White Sox approach the Devil Rays about Rocco Baldelli, who seems to be the odd man out in the Tampa Bay outfield. A couple prospects or proven pitcher would be able to land Baldelli, who has had good success in Chicago batting .414 with 3 HR since 2003. Kenny Williams will probably figure out what he will do with the young guys because one will be without a position if Rowand is signed. Whether it is Josh Fields or Jerry Owens or maybe even Joe Crede without a job, time will tell whether or not Williams trust his young players or is looking for an instance upgrade.

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Why Isn't Cashman Blamed?

After the Yankees failed to win the World Series for the seventh straight season, the Yankees are on the verge of letting their best manager in history walk away. But, no one seems to understand why Torre is being let go. He is a winner, comes to manage every single game, and has been in the playoffs every year he has managed the Yankees. They have been given a pretty decent team most years, but why isn't Brian Cashman blamed for any of these mistakes? Here is the answer: Brian Cashman isn't making any decisions. He is just a spokesman or the in between guy for negotiations with players and the Steinbrenner's. Why isn't he blamed for Roger Clemens, Kei Igawa, or the commitment the Yankees have to Jason Giambi, a .236 hitter? Can you expect to win a World Series with two consistent pitchers and three struggling ones? No, you cannot, and why didn't Cashman pull a trade to help out the rotation? Because the Steinbrenner's are not letting him. They are in full control of the team while Cashman is just the face you put on the decisions. No coaching staff could have lead this team a World Series. Not La Russa, whose World Series Champions last year finished third this year, Don Mattingly, or Joe Girardi. You can tell from his face that he is stressed, and is pushed around by The Boss. Not only that, but if Joe Torre leaves, you could see what happened to the Yankees in the mid-eighties when a good manager left and bad one was brought in. Rivera, Posada, Clemens, and Pettitte could all walk, along with Rodriguez leaving the Yankees in ruins, despite some solid young players. Then, you could even see Mike Mussina retire-he is thirty eight and has one year left on his contract. So when did that change? When Joe Torre became manager. I think that should say something in itself.

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Hot Stove Is Heating Up

Here are a few players that will probably be traded this off season:

GOOD CHANCE

Johnny Damon, Yankees
- The Yankees nearly traded the struggling outfielder whose spot has seemed to be taken by emerging star Melky Cabrera. With Bobby Abreu in right and Matsui in left, it makes sense that Damon would be moved and Cabrera would get the everyday role. Damon could move to first base and Giambi in the DH spot but I think the Yankees are looking to get younger and could trade Damon and cash for a couple prospects. He has two years left on his contract making 26 million for the next two seasons.

Teams likely to be interested: Marlins, Phillies, Rangers, Giants, or White Sox.

Dontrelle Willis, Marlins
- Dontrelle Willis might finally be on his way out. He had a bad year, but is set to make a lot of money anyways. The Marlins are not interested in paying both him and Cabrera and with more teams interested in Willis, the Marlins could get a couple more prospects by trading him.

Teams likely to be interested: Dodgers, Phillies, Rockies, Yankees, or Indians.

Josh Barfield, Indians
- The Indians second base position is crowded and young prospect Asdrubal Cabrera is showing promise and will probably take the position. Second base is the easiest position to fill, and this twenty-four year old still shows promise, and will be sought after.

Teams likely to be interested: Padres, Twins, or White Sox.

Coco Crisp, Red Sox
- Coco struggled in center field but is capable of being a solid lead off man. The main reason they do not have any interest in keeping him is because Jacoby Ellisbury is ready to play everyday and has quickly become a fan favorite. Teams will be looking for a center fielder in this market so it is a good year to shop him.

Teams likely to be interested: Twins, Phillies, or Orioles.

SO-SO CHANCE

Jacque Jones, Cubs
- Jacque Jones was nearly traded to the Marlins but money prevented that trade from going through. Jones had a great second half but his power numbers are still down. He has one more year left on his contract and if Felix Pie performs in the Winter League, they might stick with him in center field. If anything happens, it will probably go down in Spring Training after they get a better look at Matt Murton as well.

Teams likely to be interested: Padres, Dodgers, Orioles, or Royals.

Edgar Renteria, Braves
- The Braves think very highly of Yunel Escobar and would like to give him the everyday role. Renteria had a great year and could definitely bring in something that could help the Braves, especially because he has one more year on his contract with a club option for 2009. He knows how to get the job done and has playoff experience which benefits any team.

Teams likely to be interested: Cardinals, Tigers, or Giants.

Garrett Atkins, Rockies
- The Rockies payroll continues to climb with Atkins because his salary continues to rise. He has the ability to hit twenty give homeruns and drive in one hundred men which makes him very appealing. He is still young, but will cost you as he gets better. He is a decent fielder and balances out a lineup with lefties and righties. Many teams will be interested if they are willing to trade a capable pitcher with a prospect or two.

Teams likely to be interested: Yankees, Tigers, or Angels.

Jon Garland, White Sox
- The White Sox will finally try to trade him and will probably have suitors that will bite at the offer. Garland won't be a free agent till after the 2008 season and the White Sox would probably have to pick up most of his 12 million dollars to go through with a trade. But Garland has proven he can pitch, and just needs a team with a solid defense and consistent run support.

Teams likely to be interested: Cubs, Cardinals, Rangers, Astros, Padres, Mets, Mariners, or Rockies.

Mark Prior, Cubs
- The Cubs have the option to non-tender Prior but it would make sense for them to tender him and see what they could get on the market. Although they probably can't get much, a low level prospect or two might be worth it. Teams are looking to find pitchers, and several teams would take a chance on him.

Teams likely to be interested: Cardinals, Indians, Mariners, or Rockies.

Honorable mention: Rocco Baldelli, Gerald Laird.

BAD CHANCE

Johan Santana, Twins
- Although Johan Santana will be highly sought after this off season, I think the Twins want to take one more chance at signing him. Also, Torii Hunter will be their main focus until he signs with the Twins or someone else. Santana could make 20 million dollars annually in the free agent market, especially if he puts together another great year like he has in the last several years. I do not doubt that he will be traded at the deadline or tried to sign in the following off season, but I think the Twins still think they have a chance.

Teams likely to be interested: Yankees, Mets, Phillies, Rangers, Angels, Cardinals, Dodgers, Rockies, or Giants.

Rich Aurilia, Giants
- Rich Aurilia is very versatile, and brings a veteran presence which not many players that are available bring. He is thirty-six, and doesn't fit into their future plans, so he will probably be traded. However, his bat is declining and not many teams are willing to overpay for a backup utility infielder.

Teams likely to be interested: Yankees.

Adam Dunn, Reds
- The Reds will probably pick up his option, but could still look to trade him. But why would they? He is a key contributor to their lineup and any team interested would not be interested in trading away several prospects for the strikeout king.

Teams likely to be interested: Nationals.

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La Russa Waiting On Yankees

After Joe Torre and his Yankees failed to make it past the divisional series, it seemed that he felt his time in New York was done. "I'm not going there," Torre said. "This has been a great 12 years. Whatever happens from here on out, I'll look back on these 12 years with great, great pleasure, based on the fact that I'm a kid who had never been to the World Series, other than watching my brother [Frank] play in the '50s, and paying for tickets otherwise." Tony La Russa, who is waiting to say whether or not he will return to the Cardinals, said he would be interested in the managerial post in the Bronx. Torre, who would be picked up quickly if he is let go, would be smart to say 'I'm not coming back,' than be fired to show George Steinbrenner he will not stand for his threats. Mariano Rivera is already on his way out and if Torre leaves, Posada will probably leave too. There is no one better than Torre out there so it doesn't make sense why he would be let go. But if La Russa becomes the new manager and Mattingly and Girardi are put off, you can expect both of them to leave and seek other positions. His family lives in Cincinnati's and he could be the Reds new manager if he wanted to continue. Former Cardinals Joe Girardi could be the next Cardinals manager while Mattingly could sit out a year and wait for a new opportunity the next year. Or he could take the Pirates, Royals, or possibly the Phillies job. They are both eager to be managers and may leave if the Yankees look elsewhere. Personally, I think Joe Torre will look at the teams looking for managers and say 'I have had a good run, these teams don't interest me,' and retire to the broadcast booth or completely from baseball.

Source

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The A's Are Out Of Prospects

The way the Athletics admitted that their minor league system is running thin is suggesting that they will look to restock this off season. Pitchers like Dan Haren, Joe Blanton, or Rich Harden could be shopped to bring in several youthful players to eventually full the young roster spots. Daric Barton and Travis Buck seem to be the new wave of young players but after that, their doesn't seem to be many in sight. Trading Joe Blanton would certainly bring in a couple prospects, especially if he is traded to the Mets. I would hold onto Dan Haren for at least one more season because he isn't eligible for free agency until after 2009. They do not have much to trade like the last time they did this with Mark Mulder and Tim Hudson, but they might need to take a couple steps back to go forward. Imagine if they acquired Yovani Gallardo, Andy LaRoche and Chin-Lung Hu, or Joey Votto. They would be so much better with one of these guys on their squad and it isn't a ridiculous statement that Dan Haren and cash for Joey Votto and a low level prospect could go through. What Billy Beane should do is dig into a system or two this off season and find the young guys that are ready to take the next step. Joba Chamberlain did it for the Yankees; he is the kind of guys he should look for. Joe Blanton for Brandon Hynick and Alan Johnson is something that Billy Beane could try and pull off. Hynick had sixteen wins in Single-A while Johnson had 14 with ERA's both under three. He could even try and snag Yorvit Torrealba to platoon with Kurt Suzuki. Or they could trade Dan Haren for Yunel Escobar and a low level pitcher like Kris Medlen, if the Braves are willing to trade him. The Braves and A's are on good terms and could pull something off, if the Braves are interested in making that kind of trade. One thing is for sure, their minor league system is running thin and in order to be successful, Beane must restock with young guys who he will have control over for a long time.

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Mike Lowell's Interest Grows

Mike Lowell is already being courted by several teams around the league, and no one is sure if he will even leave the Red Sox. Mike Lowell had a career year with the Red Sox, batting .324 with 21 HR and 120 RBI. He is making 9 million dollars in the final year of his four year deal worth 32 million dollars, and could probably make at least 12 million annually this year. The Tigers have said they do not plan to move Brandon Inge but if Lowell becomes available, it is possible they could move him back to catcher, and put Pudge Rodriguez at designated hitter because it seems that Gary Sheffield's injury had another setback. Once he comes back, Inge could become a backup while the much better Tigers roll on. It makes sense, but why go for Lowell, who will ask for so much money when Pedro Feliz, who is not better than Lowell, but could still get the job done at a cheaper price. Not only that, but Feliz is a utility player and could be shifted around if they want to keep Inge in the lineup. At least one thing is for sure, the Tigers may be looking for a third baseman after they find that left handed hitter for the outfield. If they go through trades, Ronny Cedeno of the Cubs played some third base and showed great pop there, but it would cost the Tigers a prospect or two because the Cubs still think high of him.

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Tigers Have List Of Outfielders

The Tigers have made it known they are looking for a left handed bat, preferably one with one year left on his contract. Raul Ibanez was a force with the Mariners batting .291 with 21 HR and 105 RBI, but his defense has diminished some so they will not be able to get as much. The Mariners would rather trade Sexson, but no one is too interested in him because of his poor numbers. The Mariners want pitching, and would probably be able to acquire someone like Nate Robertson. But if the Tigers are not able to acquire Ibanez, who would they go to? Jacque Jones of the Cubs is in the final year of his contract and would attract the Tigers, especially if they throw in Will Ohman, who they wanted earlier. They wouldn't get much in return, maybe a minor leaguer or two, or cash. Other names that come to mind are Scott Podsednik, Jim Edmonds, or Kevin Mench. The reason they are looking for a one year stopgap like this is so they can ease Cameron Maybin into the starting role in 2009. A one year rental like Ibanez, Jones, or Edmonds would not be bad, especially because you could trade them at the deadline if Maybin appears ready. The Tigers might be more inclined to trade for more of an offensive type player rather than defense because Granderson roams the outfield very well.

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Series Breakdown: Red Sox vs. Angels

The Angels came into this series with the previous record against the Red Sox in the back of their minds. Under Scioscia's time as manager, the Angels are 0-6 versus the Red Sox in the postseason. Before I knew that, I still thought the Red Sox were going to take the series. Josh Beckett has his stuff and John Lackey couldn't do much about it, while the Red Sox players, young and old, came to play. Curt Schilling has a great postseason record that got even better after he dominated the Angels. But he knew how to pitch to Guerrero having seen him a lot previously and he worked his pitches all around the strikezone to fool hitters. "He used to be able to reach back and sometimes hit 97, 98," Red Sox manager Terry Francona said. "When you're throwing less than that, your margin for error is less." The Red Sox are the Sox of 2004, but better, a lot better. The Angels were the poor prop in this scenario, but can you blame anyone? The Angels faced five straight bad teams to close the season in the White Sox, Devil Rays, Mariners, Rangers, and Athletics. Then they had to face the Red Sox, who had the best record in the American League, that is hard to adjust. The Angels batted .192 in the three games against Boston, with a .253 team slugging mark. The Red Sox hit .269 and had a .495 slugging percentage. Also, the Red Sox had their best hitters ready, while the Angels were missing there's. "Take Manny and Ortiz out of their lineup, and they're a different ballclub," Hatcher said. "That's basically what happened to us with Vlad and Garret hurt. And they didn't kick us until the eighth inning of the last game [when a seven-run eruption made it 9-0]. This wasn't a blowout series by any means. Our guys kept it close." So what's next for the Angels? I do not doubt that the Angels will be back next season, but they need a productive bat in their lineup to keep up with the improving Red Sox, Yankees, and Indians, among others. Alex Rodriguez might be available but they cannot rest everything with him. Miguel Cabrera is available and that would be a fallback if A-Rod does not opt out. They could also use another pitcher, which may come by shopping Figgins and Santana. What is next for the Red Sox? The Red Sox look like they will be facing the Indians which means they should do exactly what they did against the Angels. One thing is for sure, in the late innings of these games take out Ramirez for Jacoby Ellisbury. Also, go Beckett, Schilling, then Matsuzaka to give him more time to rest. Otherwise, they have a good chance to take the series and head to the World Series.

Source

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Mets After Blanton, Again

It seems the Mets have given up on Lastings Milledge now that Carlos Gomez and Fernando Martinez are showing potential in the wings. The Mets really want pitching, and Minaya is looking to find a solid pitcher who would thrive in New York. Joe Blanton, as I reported several months ago, was nearly traded to the Mets for Milledge but Minaya balked because he wanted to give Milledge another chance. Blanton did very well for the A's this season going 14-10 with a 3.95 ERA and 140 K. Those numbers would look even better in the NL with a run scoring team. He pitched at Shea Stadium this season and picked up a no decision over eight innings. He had one rough month this season which changed his whole record, but a five hundred month like that next season makes his numbers look even better. Milledge batted .272 with 7 HR and 29 RBI in 59 games this season. Gomez, who is the same age, batted .232 with 2 HR, 12 RBI, and 12 SB. In 60 games at Double-A, Fernando Martinez, 18, batted .271 with 4 HR and 21 RBI. I think Carlos Gomez would be the better player to trade in this situation. Milledge put up better numbers than Gomez and is the same age, while Martinez is ready if all else fails. Milledge also shows more potential with his bat than both and this year might have shown that hitting seven homeruns in 59 games. He has a lot of speed too, and being a righty balances out the lineup. Minaya is looking to make a big splash, but in order to make a big splash he has to stop competing with the Yankees front office and do what is best for the team.

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Piniella Wants Marquis Gone

Although Cubs pitcher Jason Marquis turned out a good year for the Cubs after finishing 14-16 with a 6.02 ERA the year before, Lou Piniella lost all confidence in him and wants him traded. Marquis was 12-9 with a 4.60 ERA and 109 K, but was 7-5 with a 5.65 ERA with 62 earned runs in the final three months of the season. You could see Piniella's frustration after he let Marquis go just 8.1 innings in his final three starts combined. He started very strong for the Cubs which make me think they might hold on to him, especially becuase the sale of the Cubs will slow down free agent signings. Where could he go if they did shop him? The Padres, who are looking to improve their rotation might take a look. Kevin Towers and Jim Hendry are good trading partners and could work something out. The Indians are looking to improve their pitching and may take a chance. The Marlins, who have reported adolescent behavior may look to a veteran pitcher to lead some of these young guys. He has the stuff to compete, but has zero confidence which only hurts the team. But if they were to trade him, what would the rotation look like? They have Carlos Zambrano, Ted Lilly, and Rich Hill as lock ins. Making Ryan Dempster a starter again would be a mistake, and would probably hurt his arm. Not only that, but he can't seem to close out any game with perfection. They have Kevin Hart and Sean Marshall who will get a shot at Spring Training, along with Donnie Veal and Sean Gallagher. Koji Uehara, from Japan, is a free agent and they could take a chance on him. Maybe even Kyle Lohse, but the pending sale will definitely effect cost, especially if he is looking for a Marquis type deal. Jim Hendry is known for making trades that benefit the Cubs completely, so trading Marquis might be hard if he follows that philosophy.

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Royals Manager Search Is Heating Up

The Royals have begun scanning the coaching staffs of each team looking for a legitimate manager for the future. The list includes Jim Fregosi, Dusty Baker, Joe Girardi, Ken Macha, Terry Pendleton, Frank White, Phil Garner, Bob Brenly, and possibly Tony La Russa. These are all great choices for the Royals right now but it probably won't go to someone who is waiting for a manager position to open up, like Joe Girardi or Dusty Baker. My guess would be Terry Pendleton, a coach with the Atlanta Braves, who has been looking to manage for a long time. He understands Cox's style of play, plus his own tactics, which would do best for the young Royals. They do have some pop, and could use a fresh face to managing looking for a change. For a possible bench coach, Phil Garner or Bob Brenly could assume the role because both have managed in the playoffs and worked with young guys. This probably won't make the news like the Phillies, Cardinals, or Yankees, but it could make a big difference in the long run.

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Series Breakdown: Rockies vs. Phillies

Coming into Game 1, all I could say was the Rockies' day off will cool their jets and they will be done in three games. Well, it turns out that they kept going and the Phillies are now done. The Rockies have won 17 of 18 and are now in the NLCS. Who would have thought? Their pitching stayed tough, and their hitting has been more clutch than ever. If Kaz Matsui can continue to contribute like he has with Holliday, Helton, Hawpe, and Atkins trailing, they will be tough to beat. And if they can hold the Phillies, who scored the most runs in the lead, to just eight runs, they will give the Diamondbacks a run for their money. The Rockies played the same consistent baseball they have played all September. On the other hand, the Phillies Charlie Manuel tried to throw a curveball at them, and it didn't break. Instead of using Brett Meyers, a left-handed pitcher, they stuck with J.C. Romero who ultimatley blew the deciding game. Manuel looked a lot better towards the end of the season, but I do not think he should be fired. The Rockies pitched around Rollins, Howard, and Utley and that is the formula. They swung the bats early against their aces, and played like every game was their last. They didn't expect themselves to be in this position, and they will take advantage of it till the very end. Again, the Phillies came into the series thinking they had the upper hand. Who can blame them? Can you name the Rockies five starters? "They are on one of the most amazing streaks I have seen a team have at the end of the season," said Phillies skipper Charlie Manuel to FOXSports writer Ken Rosenthal. So whats next for the Rockies? They have four days off and I think that each day there needs to be some sort of practice. Get down to Arizona early and swing the bats, throw in the outfield, just to stay loose. This could be the end with four days off to their impressive streak. Both teams will be travelling and have the same amount of time off but the Dbacks are definitely the better team. They have to go with Francis in game one and pick up Webb early. If you can get someone on base, do everything possible to advance him. The Diamondbacks turned a lot of double plays this season and have the pitchers to do it again. What's next for the Phillies? First, the Phillies must resign Charlie Manuel. He sent the team on a late season surge and kept them going in the heart of the summer. Joe Torre will probably become available but I doubt he would go to Philadelphia. They need to improve their pitching and determine whether or not to offer Rowand a contract. From there, they can once again determine if they want to hold on to Pat Burrell or not. I expect the Phillies to be very busy this off season, and it starts right now because their impressive run is now over.

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Mets to Acquire Ramon Hernandez?

The Mets have a few off season upgrades that need to be made this season, and one of them is at the catchers spot. Paul Lo Duca, despite desperately wanting to stay, is probably on his way out. The Orioles were disappointed with Hernandez this season and may be willing to make a trade. He batted .258 with 9 HR and 62 RBI while Lo Duca batted .272 with 9 HR and 54 RBI. It is possible to see the Orioles make a run at Lo Duca, if they trade Hernandez for a low level prospect or two. Lo Duca and Hernandez are pretty similar catchers. They put up similiar numbers, and defense is about even. However, Lo Duca will make around 5-6 million next season while Hernandez is under contract til 2009 with a club option for 2010. Yes, he will be making 15.5 million over the next two seasons but if the Orioles are willing to pay a part of the salary that would be a great deal for the Mets. It would also allow the Mets to save money for something else, maybe Kosuke Fukudome, and give time for one of their young catchers to develop into something. Not only that, but they could also pursue a free agent outfielder, or prepare a contract for Johan Santana, if they are able to acquire him. Trading for someone under contract these days, especially if he is similar to the guy who previously held the position, it will go a long way. A trade like this, however, will probably be discussed at the Winter Meetings.

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Series Breakdown: Cubs vs. Diamondbacks

I have to say, I was a little suprised that they swept. But it does make sense when you look at their numbers. The Cubs' leading homerns hitters Derrek Lee, Alfonso Soriano, and Aramis Ramirez were 6-38, with no extra base hits. The bullpen was in a funk, especially Carlos Marmol while Ted Lilly, who was 9-1 coming off a Cubs loss, melted down and couldn't get back. Lou Piniella was outmanged and came in thinking NLCS, which lost Game 1 which also took all the pressure off the Diamondbacks. He took out Carlos Zambrano too early saving him for Game 4, and didn't pitch around their best hitters who hurt the Cubs the most. The Diamondbacks, on the other hand, mixed up their pitching very well, putting the power sinker pitcher in Webb and the changeup specialist in Davis back to back. That threw off the Cubs, and you could tell by the amount of ground balls to Mark Reynolds, usually resulting in a double play. And instead of going with Micah Owings in Game 3 and saving Hernandez for a possible Game 4, he went right after the Cubs and came out great. Also, the young players wanted to be there and understood the importance, while not letting that get to their head. The Cubs were more overrated than ever coming into the playoffs because of their 12-6 record to close the season. The Diamondbacks were young and ready, while the Cubs expected to walk all over them. So, what should the Diamondbacks keep doing? There next game isn't til October 11th and if I were them, I would start Brandon Webb, Micah Owings, Doug Davis, Livan Hernandez, and then Brandon Webb again. Putting Owings if Game 2 would allow him to pitch on somewhat normal rest instead of putting him off for two weeks. It would also put their good pitchers back a game in a longer series. They also need to keep going to the bullpen late, changing it up with Juan Cruz, Tony Pena, and Brandon Lyon. For their hitters, they need to keep doing what they are doing. Swing early, do whatever you can to advance the runner, and run everything out. They will definitely need to do that with Francis on the mound because the lefties will have a lot of trouble with his delivery. What should the Cubs do? The Cubs have little to do because most are under contract. Now would be a great time to talk with Kerry Wood and Daryle Ward about possible contracts, and determining the outfield spots in center and right. Will it be Pie and Jones? Pie and Murton? Jones and Murton? The Cubs should look to trade Jones because of how his numbers decreased so much. He has one year left on his contract, and is drawing interest. You could probably acquire a starter or a minor leaguer or two. They will probably let Kendall walk, along with Trachsel and Monroe, giving Soto the everyday job at catcher. The playoff winners are always the team that gets hot at the right time. For Cubs fans, nothing was controversial in this instance and you can't focus the blame one person.

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Mike Lowell to Dodgers?

According to the MLB Rumors West Coast Correspondent Shane Shapiro, the Dodgers are ready to go after Mike Lowell, assuming he hits the open market. His decision to stay or go is depending on how far the Red Sox go in the playoffs, but they have been eyeing him for a long time. Many, however, are thinking 'What about Andy LaRoche?' According to a source with the Los Angeles Times, the Dodgers think he is not ready for an everyday job because of his poor hitting at the major league level. If Lowell resigns with the Red Sox, the Dodgers would look at Joe Randa, if they can lure him out of retirement, Joe Crede, only if the White Sox are willing to trade him, and possibly Alex Rodriguez, but his big contract is intimidating to the now budget conscience Dodgers. If they still hope LaRoche can make it back the best bet would be Randa, assuming he is still in shape to play. Randa would be a stopgap and could put up decent numbers for a bottom of the order player. He is just 37, and could probably put up a .250 average with 10-12 homeruns and 50 RBIs. Lowell in the Dodgers lineup would put them right back in contention though. Pierre and Furcal at top, followed by Lowell, Kent, and Martin, they would be tough to beat. Especially with Eithier and possibly Kemp trailing as well. I think the Dodgers need to pursue Lowell aggressively because they need to upgrade their pitching as well. If they carry on with Lowell into the Winter Meetings when some of the best pitchers in a weak market are signed, they won't have much to work with coming into Spring Training. Dodgers GM Ned Colletti was able to sign Furcal at a good, short term contract, but long enough for Chin-Lung Hu to develop. I think Colletti knows what it takes to sign a premere free agent like Lowell at the right price where he would sign it immediately.

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Glavine's Potential Options

Yesterday, Tom Glavine opted out of his contract taking three million dollars to be on the open market. This probably means he will return to the Braves but here are his other options. Glavine can still pitch and will probably put up similiar numbers to what he did last season. I expect him to command a one year deal, worth 10-12 million, right around the deal Greg Maddux got. Here are the five teams in order or likeliness that Tom Glavine would go to.

1. Braves
- The Braves are where Glavine grew into the pitcher he is today. He won a World Series there, and now lives in the area. Bobby Cox is still the manager and if he is going anywhere, it would probably be back with his former team.

2. Orioles
- The Orioles pitching coach Leo Mazzone worked with Glavine to make him a great pitcher. They still have a close relationship, and the Orioles are looking to improve their rotation, and who better than Glavine to work with the young guys and lead the rotation.

3. Nationals
- The Nationals Stan Kasten is a long time friend of Glavine who would love to bring him in to lead the Nationals into a new stadium. He would cost a lot, but he is probably worth it for the young Nats.

4. Red Sox
- The Red Sox are looking to go young and have some guys ready for the rotation, but with Schilling already out the door, who better to replace him then hometown boy and veteran ace Tom Glavine?

5. Cardinals
- The Cardinals are looking to change the face of the organization and may look at Glavine as someone who can lead the transition for youngsters. With Carpenter coming back and Wainwright staying hot, Glavine would only make them all better, and possibly in contention for the division.

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Mets Front Office Should Relax

The Mets have a lot of young pitching that could develop into good players, especially behind some of their veterans. Lastings Milledge, Phil Humber, Mike Pelfrey, and more throughout the system that are just a year or two away. They are interested in trading for Johan Santana, but might not have the prospects to acquire him. If they were going to just trade minor leaguers, it would have to be those three, and several others. If the Twins were looking for a solid run producer, the only players they would accept would probably be David Wright or Jose Reyes. Omar Minaya would definitely not trade one of them. The Mets are shaping up to be a force in the NL East with their young guys starting to turn it around. Now they are saying if A-Rod opts out, they would take a look at him too. That doesn't mean they would make an offer, but that they would look into it. It would be foolish to try and shift that whole Mets infield at a time like this. It would also be foolish to try and add thirty-five plus in payroll for the next several seasons. I know the Mets struggled towards the end of this season but it didn't happen because they were bad. Teams go on slumps, and they went on a bad one at the worst time possible. I'm not saying don't try to add either of them. They would be smart to trade for a dominant pitcher in the AL who would only be better in the NL like Santana. But going after A-Rod would be foolish and would effect chemistry in the clubhouse and on the field. Adding Santana alone would make them better. He would give them an extra fifteen wins, at least, and lead that rotation behind John Maine, Pedro Martinez, and Oliver Perez. They will probably make the outfield younger and add a solid young player. There are some available, but they may look through trades. The Cubs do not seem inclined to play Matt Murton everyday and he seems to have what it takes to be an All-Star. He would probably fair well in left field at the bottom end of that lineup. You could then switch Alou back to right, if he stays, or scope the market. The Mets do have money to spend, but not on both A-Rod and Santana. However, the Mets alone could make this off season very exciting.

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Pirates Fire Tracy

The Pirates hired Neal Huntington to be their new GM and gave him the decision on whether or not Jim Tracy will be the manager anymore. After about a week and half of reviewing the situation, he decided to let him go. Tracy's style of play that helped when he managed the Dodgers could not turn the Pirates in to much of anything. In his first year with the team, they were 67-95, and this season they finished 68-94. Many Pirates fans and experts were upset to see Tracy hired over Jim Leyland, who was willing to manage the Pirates after six years away from the position. It's hard to say what Tracy did well. He was able to develop some good young players, but his staff ruined some as well. He worked with Jason Bay in the outfield, but not enough to balance out his numbers at the plate. Although Joe Girardi may be waiting for the Yankees job to open up, which might as well stay with Torre or go to his right hand man Don Mattingly, he has a good reputation for putting a solid youthful team together like he did with the Marlins and could probably work with some of their young pitchers and struggling catcher Ronny Paulino. Other possible managers include Dusty Baker, who was in the NL Central for several years. Neal Huntinton is known for player development and will probably find the manager who is best known for developing youth. Maybe he will look to a manager in the minor league systems who has developed players and made a successful team. Ryne Sandberg might be interested, but I'm just speculating.

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New Contest!

Now that the playoffs are underway and everyone has a sense of what is going on, I am giving you a chance to win a prize. For the person who submits the most accurate playoff predictions to me through email (mlbrumors@gmail.com), will win a customized jersey of their favorite team. In order to be eligible, submit the following:

Prediction of winner and games played (Ex. Rockies in four games)

World Series MVP

Again, email me at mlbrumors@gmail.com with your predictions and win a customized jersey.

Eli

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Are Mets Interested in Lo Duca?

Mets catcher Paul Lo Duca is doing everything he can to make sure the Mets know how interested he is in staying with the Mets. If that means he will take a hometown discount, the Mets might be interested. But, there are other catchers on the market and some even available through trades, so they might look that way before going back to Lo Duca. Ramon Castro showed great power in just 52 games, hitting eleven homeruns and batting .285, so they might go with him. The Mets have only one bright spot in their organization in terms of a catcher, but he is just in Single-A. He is seven teen however and is the brother of Royals shortstop Tony Pena Jr. Going through trades, J.R. Towles, Ronny Paulino, Colt Morton could be catchers of the future in a possible platoon role. With free agents, Jason Kendall might not be brought back with Geovany Soto looking good, and he would be a great catcher for those pitchers. Michael Barrett, Yorvit Torrealba, and maybe even Jorge Posada are available and solid choices as well.

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Cubs Giving Up On Prior?

The Cubs recent splurge of money may continue, but not with once top prospect Mark Prior on it. Prior is once again eligible for arbitration and might look to make around three million dollars, despite not pitching once this season. They can non-tender him, making him a free agent and ending their ties with him, and they might do that to open up some money. Yes, three million seems like nothing today, but Mark Prior is nothing today and is showing no signs of making a strong comeback. The Cubs have several guys on the verge of making it to the majors, including Kevin Hart, Donnie Veal, Jeff Samardjiza, Mark Holliman, and Jose Ceda. Obviously, not all of them will be solid pitchers but you can count on at least one or two of them breaking the rotation. The Padres are looking to improve their rotation and would definitely take a chance on Mark Prior, but he would have to sign at a reduced price with a lot of incentives. Personally, I think the Cubs will avoid arbitration with Prior and then shop him, eating all but his entire salary to acquire a solid prospect.

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Walt Jocketty Relived Of Duties

St. Louis Cardinals General Manager Walt Jocketty was relieved of his duties today, according to an anonymous source. The Cardinals finished third in the division a year after winning the World Series, so his dismissal is justified. Not only that, he was unable to keep a solid team together last off season, losing several key players to teams in his division. Also, he was very quiet around the deadline, making no deals. Over his time with the Cardinals, he has made some good and bad deals:

Date	Traded	To	Received
11/28/94	Aldo Pecorilli	ATL	Ramon Caraballo
12/07/94	Luis Alicea	BOS	Jeff McNeely, Nate Minchey
04/05/95	Kirk Bullinger, Bryan Eversgerd, Da Rond Stovall	MON	Ken Hill
04/09/95	Rheal Cormier, Mark Whiten	BOS	Cory Bailey, Scott Cooper
06/16/95	Todd Zeile, $	CHC	Mike Morgan, Francisco Morales, Paul Torres
07/09/95	John Habyan	ANA	Mark Sweeney
07/27/95	Ken Hill	CLE	David Bell, Rick Heiserman, Pepe McNeal
08/25/95	Anton French	ATL	Jose Oliva
10/19/95	Marc Ronan	MIL	Mike Stefanski
12/04/95	Andre King	CIN	Luis Ordaz (CIN), Miguel Mejia (KCR)
12/14/95	Allen Watson, Rich DeLucia, Doug Creek	SFG	PTBNL (Chris Wimmer), Royce Clayton
01/09/96	Allen Battle, Carl Dale, Jay Witasick, Bret Wagner	OAK	Todd Stottlemyre
01/22/96	Bernard Gilkey	NYM	Erik Hiljus, Eric Ludwick, Yudith Orozio
02/13/96	Steve Montgomery	OAK	Dennis Eckersley
06/07/96	Tom Urbani, Miguel Inzunza	DET	Micah Franklin, Brian Maxcy
06/15/96	Pat Borders	ANA	Ben Van Ryn
12/16/96	Cory Bailey	TEX	David Chavarria
12/19/96	PTBNL (Rene Arocha)	SFG	Tom Lampkin
03/27/97	Keith Johns	MIL	PTBNL (Scotty Pace
06/13/97	Rich Batchelor, Danny Jackson, Mark Sweeney	SDP	Scott Livingstone, Phil Plantier, Fernando Valenzuela
07/31/97	Eric Ludwick, TJ Mathews, Blake Stein	OAK	Mark McGwire
11/10/97	Dmitri Young	CIN	Jeff Brantley
03/28/98	Rigo Beltran	NYM	Juan Acevedo
03/30/98	Craig Shipley	ANA	Chip Hale
06/10/98	Wayne Kirby	NYM	Shawn Gilbert
07/31/98	Royce Clayton, Todd Stottlemyre	TEX	PTBNL (Mark Little), Darren Oliver, Fernando Tatis
11/19/98	Jeff Brantley, Ron Gant, Cliff Politte	PHI	Ricky Bottalico, Garrett Stephenson
12/14/98	Armando Almanza, Braden Looper, Pablo Ozuna	FLA	Edgar Renteria
02/09/99	Sean Lowe	CHW	John Ambrose
03/30/99	John Frascatore	ARI	Clint Sodowsky
07/31/99	Shawon Dunston	NYM	Craig Paquette
08/24/99	Kent Mercker	BOS	Mike Matthews, David Benham#
11/11/99	Alberto Castillo, Matt DeWitt, Lance Painter	TOR	Pat Hentgen, Paul Spoljaric
11/16/99	Manuel Aybar, Brent Butler, Rich Croushore, Jose Jimenez	COL	Darryl Kile, Luther Hackman, Dave Veres
12/20/99	2 PTBNL (Eliezer Alfonzo, Matt Parker), Juan Acevedo	MIL	Fernando Vina
03/18/00	Joe McEwing	NYM	Jesse Orosco
03/23/00	Kent Bottenfield, Adam Kennedy	ANA	Jim Edmonds
07/29/00	Chris Richard, Mark Nussbeck	BAL	Mike Timlin, $
07/31/00	Jose Leon	BAL	Will Clark, $
12/14/00	Britt Reames, Fernando Tatis	MON	Dustin Hermanson, Steve Kline
07/03/01	Larry Sutton	MIN	Hanley Frias
07/31/01	Jason Christiansen	SFG	Kevin Joseph, $
08/02/01	Ray Lankford, $	SDP	Woody Williams
12/15/01	Dustin Hermanson	BOS	Dustin Brisson, Luis Garcia, Rick Asadoorian
06/11/02	PTBNL (Seth Davidson)	MIN	Warren Morris
07/11/02	Neil Simoneaux	CLE	Nerio Rodriguez
07/19/02	PTBNL (Coco Crisp), Luis Garcia	CLE	Chuck Finley
07/29/02	Placido Polanco, Mike Timlin, Bud Smith	PHI	Scott Rolen, Doug Nickle, $
08/25/02	2 PTBNL (Jared Blasdell, Jason Karnuth)	CHC	Jeff Fassero
08/29/02	PTBNL (Mike Matthews), Chris Morris#	MIL	Jamey Wright, $
12/15/02	PTBNL (Mike Wodnicki), Luther Hackman	SDP	Brett Tomko
08/22/03	Ben Julianel, Justin Pope	NYY	Sterling Hitchcock
08/27/03	2 PTBNL (Mike Crudale, John Novinsky)	MIL	Mike DeJean
11/21/03	Tino Martinez	TBD	PTBNL (John-Paul Davis#), Evan Rust
12/13/03	JD Drew, Eli Marrero	ATL	Jason Marquis, Ray King, Adam Wainwright
03/21/04	Matt Duff	BOS	Tony Womack
03/29/04	Kerry Robinson	SDP	Brian Hunter
04/04/04	Wilson Delgado	NYM	Roger Cedeno
05/07/04	Joe Horgan	MON	Benji DeQuin
08/06/04	2 PTBNL (Luis Martinez, Chris Narveson), Jason Burch	COL	Larry Walker
12/18/04	Danny Haren, Kiko Calero, Daric Barton	OAK	Mark Mulder
03/29/05	Mike Myers	BOS	Carlos De La Cruz#, Kevin Ool#
06/04/05	Javier Cardona	CLE	PTBNL (John Rodriguez)
12/07/05	Ray King	COL	Larry Bigbie, Aaron Miles
07/05/06	Terry Evans	ANA	Jeff Weaver, $
07/30/06	Hector Luna	CLE	Ron Belliard
07/31/06	Rich Scalamandre	ATL	Jorge Sosa

He has made some good trades in the past to acquire Mark McGwire, Dennis Eckersley, Larry Walker, Mark Mulder, Adam Wainwright, and Scott Rolen, to name a few. He gave up J.D. Drew and Coco Crisp, but both haven't been amazing since leaving. However, he did trade Dan Haren and Daric Barton to acquire Mulder, and both are on the verge of being All-Stars. He's decent in making trades, and developing some good young players, but improving the team outside the organization is his struggle. He hasn't had much success in the draft, so there are some legitimate reasons to let him go. Possible replacements include Ruben Amaro Jr., Randy Bush, Mike Jorgensen, and others. During his time, the Cards have been to the playoffs six times, winning the World Series once. They also had seven straight winning seasons during his time.

UPDATE: John Mozeliak has been named interim GM.

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Would Glavine Go to Washington?

Although many expect Tom Glavine to exercise his 13 million dollar player option for one more year with the Mets, it is possible to see him opt out and finish his career where he wants. You would think that would mean the Braves because it is where he pitched most of his career, it is where his family is, and he has good friends there, including John Smoltz. However, Nationals president Stan Kasten is a good friend of Glavine's from his time in Atlanta and could lure him to their new stadium for one year, around 10-11 million dollars to work with some of their young pitchers and lead that rotation. He would stay in the division, do wonders for that staff, and possibly break into coaching if some of those young pitchers improve from his work. He was 13-8 with a 4.45 ERA and 89 K and could probably put up similar numbers for another year, but the Nationals do not have the best hitting or bullpen. They rank thirteenth in the league in average, last in homeruns, and fifteenth in RBIs. For the bullpen, they had forty-six saves in seventy-three opportunities, last in the league in strikeouts, and forth in the league in homeruns given up. Obviously the Nationals would have to improve or Glavine would have to have his stuff for him to be successful, but I think Glavine knows better than all that the Nationals are not the smartest choice for a veteran who relies on good offense and an even better defense. I expect him to continue on in his career because he doesn't want to finish his career on a sour note, so if he doesn't stay with the Mets, expect him to go to the Braves, and them only.

Source: ESPN Insider

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Giants Looking Big

The Giants were very to happy to hear today that the Braves will not resign Andruw Jones, making him one of the top free agents. The Giants have said that they hope to go the free agent route, but more the trade route to improve their team. Throwing a five year deal, worth 75 million dollars at Jones, a .222 hitter, might be able to land him if you throw in a lot of incentives and bonuses. Also, trading Matt Cain and a minor leaguer for Miguel Cabrera would settle the problem at third base. Then you have Zito, Lincecum, Correia, Lowry, and a free agent, maybe even a young gun to man the rotation. Furthermore, if they are able to trade Dave Roberts, and sign someone like Scott Linebrink, who pitched with the Padres when Bochy managed them, would work very nicely. Then, there lineup would look something like this:

C Bengie Molina
1B Travis Ishikawa/Free Agent
2B Kevin Frandsen/Ray Durham
3B Miguel Cabrera
SS Free Agent
OF Rajai Davis
OF Andruw Jones
OF Randy Winn

P Barry Zito
P Tim Lincecum
P Kevin Correia
P Noah Lowry
P Free Agent/Minor Leaguer

From there, they could look to give top prospect Travis Ishikawa a shot at first base, but if that doesn't work they could try and sign someone like Sean Casey as a stopgap for him. They will probably hold on to Omar Vizquel mostly because of his glove, but they could always platoon him with someone else. It is possible to let him go and try and sign Cesar Izturis at a low cost because he is coming off a bad year. The Giants do have money to spend and will be aggressive hoping to get going now that the Barry Bonds era is over. Making some big changes will definitely put them back in the race, and make the NL West very, very interesting.

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Igawa May Be Shopped

Igawa showed little improvement over the course of this year at any level of play, but especially at the MLB level. He went seven straight starts giving up at least two earned runs, and walking one. The Yankees have a lot of young pitching and really do not need him now, despite his big contract. He got some interest from other teams at the deadline, but nothing was followed through upon. The Red Sox, Padres, Dodgers, and Rangers were all interested, and something could go through this off season. If the Yankees are willing to take most of his salary, they could probably get a two low level prospects. The Red Sox were said to be interested so Igawa would be more comfortable with Matsuzaka and Okajima on his side. The Padre