Friday, November 11, 2011

Around The MLB: Offseason Notes


- What do Jose Reyes, Prince Fielder, Albert Pujols, Carlos Beltran, Mark Buerhle, and C.J. Wilson all have in common? These free agents have been targeted by the (soon to be) Miami Marlins this offseason. The Marlins are looking to sign big name free agents as they open their new stadium in 2012.

- Only one somewhat significant trade has occurred so far this offseason. The Giants sent LHP Jonathan Sanchez and minor league pitcher Ryan Verdugo to the Royals for OF Melky Cabrera. I like this trade for the Royals, especially if Sanchez can stay healthy and learn to control his pitches. For the Giants the trade is somewhat questionable, but shows how far Sanchez’s value fell after a down 2010. Cabrera had a career year last year, and San Francisco GM Brian Sabean is hoping he can replicate that performance.

- The Phillies were thought to have an agreement in place with RHP Ryan Madson, however the deal is still not done and the Phillies may be checking out RHP Jonathan Papelbon. Madson’s supposed deal was for 4 years and 44 million. A deal like that would set the market for closers,meaning Papelbon, Heath Bell, and former Mets’ closer Francisco Rodriguez could cash in.

- As for the Orioles, GM/ Executive VP of Baseball Operations Dan Duquette said the Orioles aren’t likely to go after free agents such as Prince Fielder or C.J. Wilson. Duquette believes that it is best to build the club from within. However, the O’s will not be dormant during free agency. Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun believes the Orioles have a strong liking to former Minnesota Twin Michael Cuddyer. Cuddyer is very versatile and is an above-average hitter. Also, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports believes that the Orioles may go after free agents Jorge Posada and Ivan Rodriguez to back up Matt Wieters.

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