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ESPN's Latest: Lamb, Bedard, Tejada, Loretta
Published 12/4/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
ESPN's Amy Nelson and Buster Olney recently checked in with a few new rumors. The Red Sox checked in on Mike Lamb - they're looking for a corner infield backup.  Lamb had good numbers in '07 so he may prefer to look for a starting job.  Meanwhile, Evan Grant says the Rangers are in the lead for Lamb.  They'd ...

Marlins, Tigers blockbuster
Published 12/4/2007 by Ryne Crabb at The Transaction Guy
UPDATE: Gammons is now reporting that the Marlins and Angels are very close to pulling the trigger on a trade that would send Miguel Cabrera to the Angels for Nick Adenhart, Howie Kendrick, Jeff Mathis, and another prospect. If Florida was using the Tigers as leverage to close the deal, it looks, for now, like it worked. Expect the Tigers to focus hard on Dan Haren now. This rumor is all but dead.  UPDATE: The Detroit Free Press is saying that Miller or Maybin may be traded for Dan Haren instead, but probably not both of them together. Also, the Tigers are more interested in Cabrera than Willis, and ...

Sox, Santana getting closer
Published 12/4/2007 by Ryne Crabb at The Transaction Guy
UPDATE: The Boston Globe is reporting talks about a contract extension may take place in a meeting later today. Once that meeting concludes, we will know a lot more about how close this deal really is!  ESPN’s Peter Gammons checked in with this latest tidbit: The Twins and Red Sox are supposed to meet this afternoon to continue discussions on the Johan Santana deal. Sources indicate the Twins are still trying to decide between a 3-for-1 for center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury, infielder Jed Lowrie, pitching prospect Justin Masterson and the 4-for-1 swap ...

Buzz: Mid-Day Update from Pitcher’s Market
Published 12/4/2007 by Matthew Cerrone at MetsBlog.com
According to Jon Heyman from SI.com, the Mets and Dodgers are at the ‘forefront of talks’ involving Orioles LHP Erik Bedard. …well, this is interesting, because the Dodgers are also interested in Marlins 3B Miguel Cabrera, who will likely cost a similar package as needed to get bedard…damn, this is all connected… In a post to ESPN.com, Amy Nelson writes that Bedard will cost a ‘superior package of prospects,’ while adding that the O’s are telling clubs they already have four teams with ‘very promising ...

WM Day 2: Santana to Boston looking good
Published 12/4/2007 by JMM at MY BASEBALL BIAS
From Peter Gammons (posted at 12:35 PM ET): The Twins and Red Sox are supposed to meet this afternoon to continue discussions on the Johan Santana deal. Sources indicate the Twins are still trying to decide between a 3-for-1 trade for center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury, infielder Jed Lowrie, pitching prospect Justin Masterson and a 4-for-1 swap that substitutes lefty starter Jon Lester and center fielder Coco Crisp for Ellsbury. Sweeny Murti was just on the WFAN with Mike and the Mad Dog and confirmed that talks have accelerated between the two teams. More to come…

Hoggers.... you out there?
Published 12/4/2007 by TheNaturalMevs at Diamond Hoggers
ESPN checks in from the Winter Meetings with their 'Winter Meetings Blog' over at ESPN. I'll be talking about the Reds dangling Josh Hamilton as trade bait. Also, an epic post about the Mitchell List is upcoming....soon

Following Up on the Dan Haren Rumors
Published 12/4/2007 by Ian Casselberry <info@blessyouboys.com> at Bless You Boys: Front Page Posts
On the ESPN.com Winter Meetings blog, Amy Nelson reports that Oakland isn't interested in a trade for Dan Haren unless both Cameron Maybin and Andrew Miller are part of the deal.   2:33 p.m., from Amy Nelson * The A's are looking to move Dan Haren -- but only for the right deal.  They reached out to the Tigers and asked for Cameron Maybin ...

Bedard Heading to L.A.?
Published 12/4/2007 by The Biscuit at MLB Fleece Factor
Amy Nelson of ESPN reports that the Dodgers and Orioles could be on the verge of a deal to send Bedard packing to L.A. for Matt Kemp and Jonathan Broxton. Kemp is supposed to be a stud OF, while Broxton could close for the Orioles. This can’t make Omar Minaya happy. Maybe it is just me, but this is not the bounty I thought Bedard would bring back.

WM DAY 2: Yankees make final offer for Santana
Published 12/4/2007 by JMM at MY BASEBALL BIAS
From PeteAbe: Just spoke to a Yankees Exec Who Can Be Trusted and learned this: The YEWCBT said that Brian Cashman has made his final offer and will not toss in Ian Kennedy, Alan Horne or Austin Jackson. That would seem to favor the Red Sox but the Dodgers and Angels are now getting in the mix with the Yankees on the outskirts. Hughes, Melky and a mid-level prospect. Take it or leave it. The Angels have now entered the mix for Santana as well reports Buster Olney. Here are a few other rumors: Dan Haren’s name has been linked in two deals today. First ...

Buzz: Yanks Out, Angels in on Santana
Published 12/4/2007 by Matthew Cerrone at MetsBlog.com
According to Jayson Stark at ESPN.com, the Yankees and Twins have not talked about Johan Santana today, ‘amid increasing indications Santana is going to be dealt to Boston.’ Stark writes that the Twins have recently talked with the Angels. In a report for the Providence Journal, Sean McAdam’s writes that the Twins and Angels have recently discussed Santana, who will be asked to part with at least Jared Weaver, and possibly Brandon Wood. …you have got to be kidding me… …just when i think i’m out, they ...

The Miguel Cabrera Hokey-Pokey
Published 12/4/2007 by Ian Casselberry <info@blessyouboys.com> at Bless You Boys: Front Page Posts
... Peter Gammons expects a deal to be made with the Angels for four players, including Howie Kendrick and Jeff Mathis.  (Jayson Stark, however, has conflicting information.) ...

Padres Closing In On Deal For Luke Scott
Published 12/4/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
According to ESPN's Buster Olney, the Padres are nearing a deal to acquire Luke Scott from the Astros.  No word on the return yet.  I'm curious - Scott seemed like a solid bargain acquisition and it's no surprise Kevin Towers got him.

No, the Pirates Aren't Giving Away Players
Published 12/4/2007 by Matt Watson at FanHouse
Filed under: Cleveland, Indians, Pirates, NL Central, MLB Rumors, PittsburghRelax, Pirates fans. Turns out your new GM isn't certifiable crazy after all. Despite rumors that Neal Huntington was planning on giving away Jason Bay (figuratively) and Xavier Nady (literally), it doesn't look like it's going to happen. From Jerry Crasnick in ESPN's Winter Meetings blog: You can rule out any talk of Pittsburgh trading Jason Bay to Cleveland for a Kelly Shoppach-Cliff Lee package. That one is dead. Bay is Pirates GM Neal Huntington's main trade chip, and the ...

Dodger Thoughts: Parsing the Matt Kemp-Erik Bedard Rumor
Published 12/4/2007 at Baseball Toaster
Monday, it was Andruw Jones. Today it is Erik Bedard. Yep, the Hot Stove League, de facto sponsored by Oscar Mayer Bologna, is in full swing. And they just keep pouring on the mustard until we gag. The latest exhibit, from Amy Nelson of ESPN.com : The Orioles and Dodgers may be close on a deal that will send left-hander Erik Bedard to Los Angeles, a baseball source said. The O's are in need of a center fielder and a closer who can play at the major league level, and the Dodgers seem willing to part with outfielder Matt Kemp and reliever Jonathan Broxton, who could come in a ...

Dodgers close to Bedard
Published 12/4/2007 by Ryne Crabb at The Transaction Guy
Amy Nelson, of ESPN, is reporting a source claims the Los Angeles Dodgers are close to obtaining Erik Bedard. The deal would include Matt Kemp and reliever Jonathan Broxton. The source claims the Dodgers really want to acquire Bedard. I would imagine LA would need to include at least one more prospect, maybe Andy LaRoche, although he has been linked in a package for Miguel Cabrera. Buster Olney is reporting that the Toronto Blue Jays are also in serious discussions for Bedard. TG will keep you posted! MVN-Related Content

Red Sox Closer to Finalizing Johan Santana Deal
Published 12/4/2007 by Dan at Sports of Boston
Peter Gammons reports The Twins and Red Sox are getting closer to finalizing a Johan Santana deal. Boston has sweetened its offer by adding a fifth player to the the offer — outfield prospect Ryan Kalish, a ninth-round draft pick in the 2006 out of Red Bank Catholic High School (Shrewsbury, N.J.). Peter says the Sox added a 5th prospect to sweeten a deal. But nothings been said about which deal the Twins prefer. You’d have to assume it was the Lester/Crisp one because it was the 4-1 deal. But maybe the Ellsbury deal got creative and two more prospects were added. ...

Latest Miguel Cabrera Trade Rumors
Published 12/4/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
You can check out the old thread here, based on Rosenthal's Cabrera/Willis to Detroit rumor.  ESPN's Peter Gammons has an update on the Cabrera situation involving the Angels. Gammons says the Marlins and Angels are "serious about moving Cabrera to the Angels."  The current rumor: Howie Kendrick, Nick ...

MLB Rumors Update: Johan Santana, Erik Bedard, Miguel Cabrera
Published 12/4/2007 at FakeTeams
Sean McAdam reports the Angels have jumped into the Johan Santana Sweepstakes.  The team was told SP Jered Weaver would have to be included.  Given the holes at 3B and CF for the Twins, one would thing 3B Brandon Wood and CF Reggie Willits would be attractive. Espn.com writers Buster Olney, Peter Gammons and Amy Nelson provide some interesting information.  Ms. Nelson reports the Dodgers and Orioles' are in heavy negotiations on an Erik Bedard trade that would fill two of the Orioles' needs - centerfield and closer.  The players mentioned are Matt Kemp and Jonathan Broxton. Buster Olney writes the Yankees have not talked with ...

Santana, Cabrera Could Move Soon
Published 12/4/2007 by Mantlemurcer at My Pinstripes
Peter Gammons has reported that both Johan Santana and Miguel Cabrera could be trying on new uniforms shortly. The Red Sox offer for Santana now stands at 5-for-1, as they have added prospect Ryan Kalish to the mix (joining Jon Lester, Coco Crisp, Jed Lowrie and Justin Masterson). ...

Sox Add To Santana Deal
Published 12/4/2007 by Anthony De Rosa at Hot Foot
ESPN reports that the Twins and Red Sox are getting closer to finalizing a Johan Santana deal. Boston has added a fifth player to the the offer — outfield prospect Ryan Kalish, a ninth-round draft pick in the 2006 out of Red Bank Catholic High School (Shrewsbury, N.J.). The Boston Herald is reporting that the Twins are saying they want to get the deal done by the end of the day. Share This

ESPN's Latest: Sammy!, Prior, Kuroda, Reyes
Published 12/4/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
ESPN has a huge team at the Meetings; here are some tidbits that haven't appeared elsewhere on MLBTR. Enrique Rojas says the Royals have interest in Sammy Sosa.  Could that indicate a Mark Teahen trade is in the works also?  Teahen is expected to move to first base to accomodate Jose ...

Crasnick's Latest: Lee, Wells, Bay
Published 12/4/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
ESPN's Jerry Crasnick just cranked out a bunch of good stuff. The Indians have talked to the Cardinals about sending Cliff Lee over for Anthony Reyes and catcher Bryan Anderson. The Giants could trade for Ben Broussard, but want to see if he's non-tendered first. ...

Afternoon Notes & Rumors
Published 12/4/2007 by Old Navy King at MLB Fleece Factor
These come your way courtesy of Jerry Crasnick over at ESPN.com: The Cards have talked to the Indians about a possible deal for Cliff Lee, with Anthony Reyes and C prospect Bryan Anderson mentioned as possible trade candidates.  St. Louis is also in talks with the Brewers regarding Chris Capuano, as we’ve mentioned. The SF Giants have expressed interest in 1B Ben Broussard, who the Mariners are shopping around the league. Kip Well’s agents are marketing him as a set-up man. The Jason Bay to Cleveland for Cliff Lee/Kelly Shoppach rumors are apparently dead.  Pirates GM Deal Huntington wants more for Bay, and ...

As The Santana Turns - Tuesday Afternoon Update
Published 12/4/2007 by Ian at SOX & Dawgs
The stove has gotten a lot hotter this afternoon in the Johan Santana sweepstakes. This is the latest from Peter Gammons:  3:28 p.m., from Peter Gammons • The Twins and Red Sox appear to be getting closer to finalizing a Johan Santana deal. Boston has sweetened its offer by adding a fifth player to the trade proposal — outfield prospect Ryan Kalish, a ninth-round draft pick in 2006 out of Red Bank Catholic High School (Shrewsbury, N.J.). Then there is this from Rob Bradford over at the Boston Herald: According to ...

Signs of Concern
Published 12/4/2007 by cardinal70 at C70 At The Bat
I’ve spent a fair amount of time lately defending ownership.  However, the talk and actions of our new GM are starting to concern even me. First, we have the Izturis signing.  While not worth the doom and gloom, sky is falling mentality some people had for it, it still was a bit of a headscratcher and not nearly the kind of moves most fans have been waiting for. Then, we have the idea of shipping Scott Rolen off to the Brewers.  In case you aren’t paying attention, the Brewers are 1) a team in the same division as the Cardinals and 2) the team most likely to win the NL Central next year, in my opinion.  While I’m not one that thinks Rolen should be traded now, trading ...

Wells to the pen
Published 12/4/2007 by Ed Ryan at Mets Fever
Kip Wells has always had a live arm and a great deal of potential. But has always had difficulty making it two or three times through the order and staying healthy. Now Wells is marketing himself as a set-up, once through the order with that arm might work out well..... ...

Buzz: Mets are Considering Livan Hernandez
Published 12/4/2007 by Matthew Cerrone at MetsBlog.com
…there is more and more buzz coming from Nashville suggesting that the Mets are seriously considering Livan Hernandez… Earlier today, citing ‘a source,’ MLB.com reported that the Nationals may be willing to give Hernandez a two-year deal. …if you recall, multiple reports over the last week had suggested the Mets were debating whether to sign hernandez…in fact, ESPN.com made another reference to this today…i dig hernandez, but not at more than two years…no way, no how… Hernandez, Tom ...

Angels Trading For Cabrera! No, They're Not!
Published 12/4/2007 by Rob at 6-4-2 — an Angels/Dodgers double play blog
One way or another, ESPN will be right: 4:49 p.m., from Jayson Stark • The Twins and Angels continue to talk about a Johan Santana trade. Many of the same players mentioned in the Miguel Cabrera sweepstakes -- Howie Kendrick, Brandan Wood, Nick Adenhart, and possibly Jeff Mathis or Reggie Willits -- would be included in a package for Santana. • It is believed that the Angels haven't talked with the Marlins since last night, and Miguel Cabrera is off their radar screen -- at least for now 3:28 p.m., from Peter Gammons • The Marlins are ...

The First Blockbuster of the Off-Season: Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis to Detroit
Published 12/4/2007 by Pat Lackey at FanHouse
Filed under: Detroit, Miami, Tigers, Marlins, AL Central, NL East, Breaking News, MLB TransactionsHoly crap, holy crap, holy crap. I don't even know how to quantify this, but Peter Gammons just broke the news on ESPN's Winter Meetings blog: Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis are going to Detroit for Cameron Maybin, Andrew Miller, a catcher, and three minor leaguers. Calling this huge isn't even close to covering it: this trade is ginormous. First up you've got Cabrera. He's 24 years old and while a lot is made about his weight, but check out his ...

Motown Mauls the Marlins
Published 12/4/2007 by The Biscuit at MLB Fleece Factor
In what will probably be the biggest deal in baseball this offseason, MLB.com is reporting that the Detroit Tigers have acquired BOTH Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis from the Marlins for SP Andrew Miller and OF Cameron Maybin, along with 4 other minor leaguers. The names of those players are not available at this time. Wow…what a deal, but in the end, to get 2 players like Cabrera and Willis is a huge score for a team like Detroit. Maybin and Miller are both big-time prospects, but Cabrera is a top-10 offensive player in the game already and is still a kid. Can Maybin ever become Cabrera? I have my doubts. Willis is a tad overrated, I ...

Gammons: Tigers Get Miguel Cabrera, Dontrelle Willis
Published 12/4/2007 by Charlie <info@buccosdugout.com> at Bucs Dugout: Front Page Posts
Again, we'll see how this plays out: The Tigers have won the Miguel Cabrera sweepstakes. Detroit acquired Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis for six players -- Cameron Maybin, Andrew Miller, catcher Mike Rabelo and three minor league prospects. The minor-leaguers aren't going to be great, simply because Detroit doesn't have any great minor leaguers to ...

Tigers Acquire Cabrera, Willis For Six Players
Published 12/4/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
ESPN's Peter Gammons is reporting that the Tigers have acquired Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis for Cameron Maybin, Andrew Miller, Mike Rabelo, and three minor leaguers. This is what the hot stove league is all about, unexpected massive eight-player ...

WM DAY 2: Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis going to the Tigers
Published 12/4/2007 by JMM at MY BASEBALL BIAS
From Peter Gammons- 6:20 p.m. ET: • The Tigers have won the Miguel Cabrera sweepstakes. The Marlins get six players — Cameron Maybin, Andrew Miller, catcher Mike Rabelo and three minor league prospects — for the slugging third baseman. What Peter didn’t mention was that Dontrelle Willis has been included in the deal as well. Here’s more from MLB.com reporter Jim Molony: The Tigers and Marlins are hammering out the final details on an eight-player trade that would send third baseman Miguel Cabrera and left-handed starter Dontrelle Willis to Detroit for a left-hander ...

Miscellaneous Rumors and Happenings
Published 12/4/2007 by Will Schaffer at Chop-n-Change
Update: Dave O’Brien to the rescue! The James-Dejesus talks are bogus according to O’Brien. Also, he says that the Royals aren’t willing to trade anything of value for James so I think we dodged a bullet here. If the Braves are going to deal James, please get something more valuable than David DeJesus. Please! Willie Harris was designated for assignment today to make room for the newly acquired Omar Infante. Harris finished with a .270 batting average due to a very strong start, however he hit just .214 after the All-Star break. He isn’t as good as his start to the season and isn’t as bad as his ...

Stark: Mets Are In Trouble
Published 12/4/2007 by Anthony De Rosa at Hot Foot
Jayson Stark in the ESPN Winter Meetings blog writes at 6:10PM EST of the Mets effort to acquire a starting pitcher. Officials of two clubs that have been in contact with the Mets used the same expression — “in trouble” — to describe their efforts to deal for a starting pitcher. It’s believed they haven’t talked to either the A’s (about Dan Haren) or Orioles (about Erik Bedard) since they arrived in Nashville. And there are indications that they aren’t as interested in free agents Livan Hernandez or Carlos Silva as ...

Tigers Strike First!
Published 12/4/2007 by Jack Cobra at Cobra Brigade
Wow! Just when you thought it was safe to go home from work and relax a little bit.....The Detroit Tigers and the Florida Marlins have pulled off the biggest deal of the Winter Meetings. The Tigers have won the Miguel Cabrera sweepstakes. Detroit will get Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis from Florida for six players -- Cameron Maybin, Andrew Miller, catcher Mike Rabelo and three minor league prospects. This is really a present vs. future deal here. In Cabrera and Willis the Tigers are getting two major league ready players who can take their team to a new level. ...

Beware of the Tigers: Cabrera and Willis Reportedly to Detroit
Published 12/4/2007 by Cecilio's Scribe at The Legend of Cecilio Guante
According to ESPN's winter meetings blog (great stuff, by the way), the Tigers have landed Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera from the Florida Marlins for a Cuban sandwich and a bag of plantains. I'm not sure what that means for Brandon Inge, but did the Tiggers not just become the team to beat in the American League? I may obviously be overreacting, but they were good and just got better. If only Zumaya could stay out of his own way. HT to reader/commenter Andy L.

Tigers Win Miguel Cabrera Sweepstakes. Willis as Well
Published 12/4/2007 by Maury Brown at The Biz of Baseball
Winter Meetings Update: ESPN’s Peter Gammons is reporting that the Detroit Tigers have won the Miguel Cabrera sweepstakes, in a blockbuster deal that will see Dontrelle Willis in the mix, as well. The Marlins will get (!) six players in the deal Cameron Maybin, Andrew Miller, catcher Mike Rabelo and three minor league prospects. Check our Trade Tracker for more trades as they occur. ...

Cabrera and Willis to the Tigers
Published 12/4/2007 by StatsGuru at Baseball Musings
... December 04, 2007 Cabrera and Willis to the Tigers Peter Gammons reports that the Tigers and the Marlins made the deal : The Tigers have won the Miguel Cabrera sweepstakes. Detroit will get Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis from Florida for six players -- Cameron Maybin, Andrew Miller, catcher Mike Rabelo and three minor league prospects. Wow. Dombrowski understands the value of a superstar. Posted by David Pinto at ...

Odds and Ends: Peavy, Ellsbury, Montero, Fukumori
Published 12/5/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
More random rumors to devour... Jake Peavy will get a three-year, $52MM extension with a $22MM option for 2013.  Who knows how the Padres will feel about that option when they get there.  Peavy will earn $15MM in 2010, $16MM in '11, and $17MM in '12.  The '13 option has a $4MM buyout attached. ...

Bad Altitude: Minor Deals... and a Blockbuster
Published 12/5/2007 at Baseball Toaster
When I started writing this, it was going to be a brief post to note two Rockies-related transactions that really weren't worthy of all that much discussion: Kazuo Matsui signed with Houston , which was a little surpising in that I didn't really hear much connecting the Astros with Matsui before the deal was announced, but not particularly surprising on a larger scale since the Rockies have been behaving since the moment the World Series ended as if there was no chance of them getting back their second baseman. Kazuo got 3 years, $16.5 million from Houston, who are -- and I don't think there's a lot of debate about this at the moment -- one of the worst-run ...

Big Trade: Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis to Detroit for Prospects…
Published 12/5/2007 by Maryland Orioles' Fan at Oriole Post - Baltimore Orioles Analysis & News; The World of Baseball and Beyond
It looks like the Detroit Tigers have made the first blockbuster trade of the Winter Meetings. Well, they lost the division to the Indians, and now they have made a move that potentially may get them back into the playoffs again in 2008. The Florida Marlins and Detroit Tigers have agreed in principle ...

Hello? McFly?
Published 12/5/2007 by Metstradamus at The Musings and Prophecies of Metstradamus
"We don’t feel like we have to do a deal for a pitcher..." -Omar MinayaSure, that's what he says. And if you're a fan hearing that, you're probably tearing your hair out right now. But believe this: As Omar Minaya looks repeatedly at the picture in his jacket of all the aces posing on his front door fading away because he's increasingly coming to the point where he can't acquire any of them, you can bet that he's running around the Opryland Hotel performing his best guitar solos to try to get these GM's to hand over their aces. The problem is that it is harder than it seems. Dontrelle Willis has faded ...

Another Bedard rumor
Published 12/5/2007 by Ed Ryan at Mets Fever
Every year at this time it's hard to determine fact from fiction. In a few hours ESPN went from reporting Omar hadn't spoken to anyone, to Steve Phillips reporting on a package offered by the Mets to the Orioles. Supposedly the package was Gomez, Heilman and Humber for Bedard. There has been some discussion from what I understand that Martinez may need to replace Gomez if talks became serious. Gatham radio each night of the meetings is having a live discussion, they posed the question of whether Maine should be used in a trade for Bedard or Haren. As far as prospects go, for an Ace any of them are expendable and so is Maine or Heilman. I believe the ...

Crasnick's Latest: Hamilton, Figgins, Andruw, Inge
Published 12/5/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
Jerry Crasnick filed more rumors ripe for discussion. The Reds may consider trading Josh Hamilton, but not to an NL Central team.  There was nothing to the Hamilton-Cubs rumor anyway, according to Bruce Levine. The Cubs actually want to add two left-handed hitting outfielders, for some reason.  Beyond ...

Erstad Finds a Job that Befits His Grittiness?
Published 12/5/2007 by Ken Tremendous at FIRE JOE MORGAN
From ESPN's winter meetings blog: 9:56 p.m., from Peter Gammons • If Darin Erstad doesn't find a job that suits him, there is word that he could return to the University of Nebraska, his alma mater, and be an assistant coach for the football team. A punter in college, Erstad was part of the Cornhuskers' 1994 national championship squad and remains one of Tom Osborne's favorite players. First of all, did anyone know Erstad was a punter?! Second, when Nebraska's reporters write about his coaching, are they going to say that he brings a certain "baseball intelligence" to his profession, and talk about ...

More From Crasnick: Hamilton, Figgins, Lohse, Jones, Inge
Published 12/5/2007 by McFleece at MLB Fleece Factor
ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick is pumping them out this week.  We salute you, Jerry.  Keep the fleece rumors coming.  Here’s his latest:  The Cubs are interested in trading for Reds outfielder Josh Hamilton, but the Reds are not keen on trading the former #1 pick within the division.  Hamilton, a rule 5 pick by the Reds and amazing comeback story, hit 19 homers last year with a .291/.368/.554.   Why would Cincy trade this guy to anyone? Sticking with the Cubs, the team is seeking two left handed bats for their lineup which was sorely lacking left handed thump in 2007.  They appear to be in the lead for Kosuke Fukudome, who we’ve ...

D-Backs Shopping Jose Valverde?
Published 12/5/2007 by Old Navy King at MLB Fleece Factor
  According to Enrique Rojas of ESPN.com, the Arizona Diamondbacks are listening to offers for closer Jose Valverde.  Valverde had 47 saves last season, with a 2.66 ERA and 78 K’s in 64 1/3 innings.  It is not known what teams have been inquiring about him, but one could speculate that the Brewers would be involved. If Valverde were to be traded, set-up man Tony Pena would likely take over the closer’s role.  Pena was 5-4 with a 3.27 ERA last season in 75 appearances.  Hitters only batted .207 against him for the season. 

D'Backs Listening To Offers For Valverde
Published 12/5/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
According to ESPN's Enrique Rojas, the Diamondbacks are listening to offers for closer Jose Valverde.  They feel they've got the bullpen depth to cover his loss.  This trade possibility is nothing new to MLBTR readers, as it was first mentioned on November 6th. No mention of possible suitors, but maybe the Brewers and ...

Day 2 Evening Rumors
Published 12/5/2007 by Rob G. at The Cub Reporter (TCR) | A Chicago Cubs Blog -
- Jerry Crasnick seems to think the Cubs are seeking 2 left-handed OF bats. He says the Cubs have inquired about Geoff Jenkins and there are some in the organization that want the Cubs to pursue Chone Figgins. He speculates that the Angels might ask for Aramis Ramirez in return. Crasnick also says the Cubs will have a hard time landing Josh Hamilton as the Reds wouldn’t want to deal him within the division. On an unrelated note, I think either Jerry Crasnick or his “source” are a raging alcoholic with a coke addiction. - Wittenmeyer clarifies a few things in his latest: - If the Cubs lose out on Fukudome, Plan B is ...

Buzz: Mets Inquire on Burnett
Published 12/5/2007 by Jordan Zakarin at MetsBlog.com
Jayson Stark is reporting in the latest update to ESPN.com’s Winter Meeting Blog that the Mets have inquired on Blue Jays right hander A.J. Burnett. Burnett, talented but off-injured, can opt out of the five year, $55 million contract he signed at the 2005 Winter Meetings, after the 2008 season. The hard throwing right hander went 10-8 with a 3.75 ERA in 25 starts in 2007, pitching 165 2/3 innings. Burnett was originally drafted by the Mets in the eighth round of the 1995 amateur draft, before being sent to Florida in exchange for Al Leiter following the Marlins’ 1997 World Series victory.

Mets Inquire On Burnett
Published 12/5/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
According to ESPN's Jayson Stark, the Mets have inquired on Toronto's A.J. Burnett.  Burnett's opt-out effectively puts him on a one-year deal, but worse. Burnett is definitely the frontline type of guy the Mets have been looking for, despite the injury concerns.  Those concerns plus the contract situation should ...

Angels Not Desperate For A Third Baseman
Published 12/5/2007 by Tim Dierkes at MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com
According to ESPN's Jayson Stark, the Angels are telling teams they have no urgency to go out and get a third baseman after missing out on Miguel Cabrera.  As far as Miguel Tejada goes, the Halos haven't even met with the Orioles. That said, Ken Rosenthal did indicate that the Angels are in the mix for ...

Mets are Interested in A.J. Burnett
Published 12/5/2007 by Old Navy King at MLB Fleece Factor
  Desperate for a frontline starter, Mets GM Omar Minaya’s search has lead him to inquire about the availability of Blue Jays pitcher A. J. Burnett, via trade.  That note is brought to us by ESPN.com’s Jayson Stark.  Burnett would basically be a one-year rental, as he has an opt-out clause in his contract after the 2008 season, which he will surely use.  My guess is he will command at least $15M/season after that, assuming he can stay healhty all season.  A big IF, I know.  I actually like this deal quite a bit for the Mets.  But let’s see what Blue Jays GM J.P. Riccardi is asking for in return…

No Wonder Ozzie Is Crazy
Published 12/5/2007 by Wrigleyville at wrigleyville23
His wife is hanging out with much younger, much richer men (1:12 a.m. post): How did Cabrera find out he'd been traded? Ozzie Guillen's wife told him. Guillen's wife and Cabrera's wife are close friends. So when Guillen called his wife to tell her that Cabrera had just been traded, she replied: "Guess what? He's sitting right next to me. I'm driving him to the airport." Just kidding, Ozzie. Don't go crazy. Please.

Winter Meetings: Day Three
Published 12/5/2007 by stoeten at Drunk Jays Fans
... Back to Rosenthal, he's saying that the Jays are unlikely to move Burnett-- or any starter-- because it would be counter-productive. However, I'm not so sure about that. It depends on what they'd get back. If the Giants deal goes down, there's much more room to shift a few pieces of the puzzle. And on that front, ESPN's Jason Stark is reporting that the Mets are desperate for a frontline starter and have been asking about Burnett. ...

Buzz: Jays keeping Burnett, for Now
Published 12/5/2007 by Matthew Cerrone at MetsBlog.com
Yesterday, at ESPN.com, Jayson Stark wrote that the Mets have inquired about Blue Jays RHP A.J. Burnett. However, today at ESPN.com, Stark says the Blue Jays are not going to trade Burnett or Alex Rios, ‘for now,’ adding that Toronto GM J.P. Ricciardi will ‘probably head home today.’ Burnett, who is certainly talented, but often injured, can opt out of his five-year, $55 million contract after the 2008 season. In 25 starts for Toronto in 2007, he was 10-8 with a 3.75 ERA.

AJ Burnett to the Mets?
Published 12/5/2007 by Matt Regan at Global New York Mets Fan Blog
... According to ESPN's Jayson Stark, the Mets have inquired on Toronto's A.J. Burnett. Burnett's opt-out effectively puts him on a one-year deal, but worse. ...

Cubs Interested in Chone Figgins?
Published 12/6/2007 by Bryan at OUT OF RIGHT FIELD
Jerry Crasnick writes that the Cubs are interested in Anaheim Angels' Chone Figgins. What would the Angels want in return? Aramis Ramirez. Pass. [ESPN]

Cubs Interested in Josh Hamilton?
Published 12/6/2007 by Bryan at OUT OF RIGHT FIELD
Jerry Crasnick also writes that the Cubs have expressed interest in Cincinnati Reds outfielder Josh Hamilton. Hamilton, who battled drug problems to get back to the Bigs, battled injuries his first full season. Apparently the Reds are reluctant to trade Hamilton to a division rival. That's fine, don't want him anyways. [ESPN] ...

Buzz: No Go on AJ Burnett
Published 12/6/2007 by Matthew Cerrone at MetsBlog.com
On Tuesday, at ESPN.com, Jayson Stark wrote that the Mets had inquired about Blue Jays RHP A.J. Burnett. However, today at ESPN.com, Stark says the Blue Jays are not going to trade Burnett or Alex Rios, ‘for now.’ Nevertheless, according to the New York Post, the Mets are not looking at Burnett anyway. …actually, from what i can gather, people connected to the Mets were actually telling reporters last night, flat out, that these burnett rumors were all false, including their level of interest…

Buzz: The Burnett for Heilman Rumor
Published 12/6/2007 by Matthew Cerrone at MetsBlog.com
…several people have e-mailed to say that ESPN Radio in New York has been discussing a potential swap of Blue Jays RHP A.J. Burnett for Mets RHP Aaron Heilman, initially mentioned on-air by ESPN.com’s Buster Olney… …however, olney just called me to say this is simply his idea, speculation, something he believes would make sense for both teams after having evaluated the market for the last few days… On Tuesday, at ESPN.com, Jayson Stark wrote that the Mets had inquired about Burnett. However, today at ...