News and Notes: Clark to Beantown?

The Red Sox have engaged in talks with free agent Tony Clark and according to Boston.com, he is very interested in playing for Boston. Clark will be a great bench player in Boston, assuming he signs. I think he will be an upgrade over Eric Hinske, despite his age. Clark brings his experience and still solid play to the stadium everyday and should be able to help young players Jacoby Ellsbury, Jon Lester, and Clay Buchholz ease into playing everyday at the MLB. Now that it is so late in the off season, the Red Sox might be able to get him accept a one year deal.

Yankees Cano wants long term: Robinson Cano is interested in signing a long-term deal with the Yankees, but probably won't get one until he gets closer to free agency. The Yankees are known for waiting until their players are closer to free agency before locking them up.

Hinske likely heading to Arizona?: Free agent Eric Hinske is reportedly talking with the Diamondbacks, and announcement is expected by the end of the week. Although Hinske struggled in Boston, I think he would be a good player for the Diamondbacks bench.

White Sox like Lowry?: The White Sox might pursue a trade for pitcher Noah Lowry. Lowry is being shopped by the Giants, and could definitely land Joe Crede from the White Sox. Stay tuned.

Red Sox bring in Kolb, Miceli: The Red Sox have agreed to deals with Dan Kolb and Dan Miceli. This deal is a solid move by the Red Sox because it gives them two solid veteran pitchers in case one on their major league roster goes down.

Indians lock up Betancourt: The Indians signed Rafael Betancourt to a two year deal with a club option for 2010. Considering the year he had and the demand for a solid bullpen, this is a great move for the Indians.

Rays banking on Shields: James Shields signed a four year contract today worth 11.25 million dollars, but the deal holds three club options that that make the deal worth a possible 38 million dollars. Shields was 12-8 with a 3.85 ERA in his first full season in the majors last year, and pitched over 200 innings. A little risky locking him up before Spring Training to see how the arm is, but still, it shows the Rays desire to win.