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Hot Stove League

(2005)

12/31/05
New York Daily News: "The Mets have been engaged in ongoing talks with the Devil Rays about reliever Danys Baez, but, according to multiple baseball sources, those discussions could bloom into a blockbuster four-team trade scenario in which Manny Ramirez winds up at Shea and similarly disgruntled slugger Miguel Tejada lands in Boston."
----See, now you don't hear talk of any front line starting pitching which makes this rumor start to be more realistic.

12/28/05
Baltimore Sun writer Jeff Zrebiec reports that the Orioles are close to signing free-agent outfielder Jeromy Burnitz to a two-year deal worth an estimated $12 million. The Orioles are also believed to be entertaining the thought of a deal with the rival Red Sox that would see Boston's Manny Ramirez and Matt Clement swapped for Miguel Tejada.
----Burnitz for $6 mill a year? You're kidding me, right?

The second part of the rumor about Ramirez and Tejada is more realistic than the bull that was floating around yesterday that is copied below.
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Star-Telegram writer T.R. Sullivan says the Rangers are exploring the possibility of adding hurler Roger Clemens to their quickly improving pitching staff.

12/27/05
Daily Southtown columnist Paul Ladewski says there's a trade rumor of the three-team variety currently circulating that would see the Cubs' Mark Prior and the A's Barry Zito dealt to Baltimore, O's hurler Erik Bedard traded to Oakland and O's shortstop Miguel Tejada moved to Chicago.
----That trade as reported is NOT going to happen. There is no way Baltimore will get two front line starting pitchers for Tejada. Anybody who believes that is just being unrealistic. Now, it is possible that Baltimore is pushing for this kind of deal, but they are dreaming if they think it will come true.

12/23/05
Dallas Morning News: "Betting that the market for Kevin Millwood has started anew, the Rangers made Millwood a three-year offer worth more than $30 million, a source with knowledge of the negotiations said."

12/22/05
Chicago Tribune: "More than one source has claimed the Cubs dangled pitcher Mark Prior in multiteam trade talks that would land them premier Baltimore shortstop Miguel Tejada and eventually send Prior to a team in the American League West. "----Again, must I point out how stupid it is in today's game to trade top notch starting pitching? No wonder the Cubs haven't done anything in 3 billion years.

12/20/05
Washington Examiner columnist Jim Williams: "However, a real nice stocking stuffer could come in a trade that would send Jose Vidro and reserve outfielder Ryan Church to the Cubs in exchange for starting pitcher Kerry Wood."
----Yeah, right. Where do these writers get their credibility?
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Dallas Morning News: " Kevin Millwood, the American League's ERA leader in 2005 and perhaps the best starter on the market this winter, will visit with Rangers officials today, two sources familiar with the negotiation process confirmed. One source said the Rangers have become serious contenders for Millwood."
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Philadelphia's Bobby Abreu is among those on the Astros' radar. Other teams have inquired about closer Brad Lidge. Also mentioned but less likely to be involved are starter Brandon Backe and relievers Chad Qualls and Dan Wheeler. (chron.com)

12/18/05
The Royals are looking for a corner outfielder, with free agents Jacque Jones, Preston Wilson and Juan Encarnacion potentially being in their price range. (USAToday.com)

Info...
Tuesday is "non-tender day" in which another wave of free agents could hit the market.

         Non-tender day is the deadline teams must offer contracts
         to arbitration-eligible players. If a team does not formally
         tender -- that is, offer -- a contract by Dec. 20, the player is
         granted free agency. (MLB.com)

12/17/05
New York Daily News: "Lefty Darren Oliver, who retired last year, intends to report to spring training with the Mets and will try to latch on in the bullpen, agent Jeff Frye said."
----Remember Rockie fans, it was Oliver who quit on the team at the end of spring training last season when he lost out on the 5th spot in the rotation. Hurdle wanted him as the long guy in the pen and Oliver said nada. The pen never recovered and we all know what happpen after that.
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The Marlins want center fielder Joey Gathright from the Devil Rays, and would love to expand the deal to include right fielder Jonny Gomes. The teams should be a decent match, given the Marlins' surplus of young pitching. (FOX.com)

12/15/05
Cleveland Plain Dealer: " The Indians could find out today or Friday if Nomar Garciaparra is coming to Cleveland. ESPN.com reported Wednesday that Arn Tellem, Garciaparra's agent, said his client could pick a team by the end of the week. The Indians, Yankees, Dodgers and Astros are believed to be the finalists."

12/14/05
Floridatoday.com: The Nationals are actively pursuing five pitchers -- Jarrod Washburn and Kevin Millwood figure to be in that group -- but Bowden sounded less than optimistic that he will be able to upgrade Washington's rotation through a free-agent signing.
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The Angels discussed a deal with the Orioles that would send first baseman Darin Erstad to Baltimore for catcher Javy Lopez. Baseball Weekly.
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ESPN.com: According to one National League official, the Mets wants to trade Kris Benson to the Rangers for Juan Dominguez and Laynce Nix, then package them with Carlos Beltran to Boston for Manny Ramirez.

12/13/05
The New York Post, citing several industry sources, reported the Yankees have made an offer to Nomar Garciaparra to play first base. And FOXSports.com's Ken Rosenthal reports the Astros are also on the list of teams interested in Garciaparra. The Astros would play Garciaparra in left field. He also could serve as a backup for shortstop Adam Everett.

12/12/05
Hartford Courant: "Red Sox president and CEO Larry Lucchino has let it be known to the Hendricks brothers, the agents for Roger Clemens, that the team is interested in bringing back the greatest pitcher in franchise history, the Boston Globe reported Sunday."
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Daily Herald columnist Barry Rozner: " If the Cubs can�t get their hands on Baltimore shortstop Miguel Tejada, there might be another talented middle infielder available out east. While the Nationals have not publicly suggested that second baseman Jose Vidro is available, there is talk among baseball folks that Washington will have to consider moving Vidro now that Alfonso Soriano is in town and vowing never to switch to the outfield."

12/10/05
Boston Globe: "One day after the Red Sox traded a former All-Star shortstop, Edgar Renteria, the club offered Manny Ramírez to the Baltimore Orioles for Miguel Tejada, arguably baseball's most dynamic shortstop, according to industry sources... Meanwhile, the Sox could have legitimate company in the pursuit of Johnny Damon in the form of the Los Angeles Dodgers." (See more on the Dodgers here)
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St. Louis Post-Dispatch: "Exhibiting restraint within what they classify as a 'crazy' market, the Cardinals have extended a two-year offer with a club option for 2008 to free agent pitcher Matt Morris, who has received three-year bids from the San Francisco Giants and Texas Rangers, according to sources familiar with negotiations." (See more on the Giants here)
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Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: "Pirates have upgraded a contract offer from two to three years to free-agent third baseman Bill Mueller. And they ramped up their pursuit of a trade for Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Milton Bradley."

12/09/05
Baltimore Sun: "When word of free-agent catcher Ramon Hernandez's deal with the Orioles leaked out Wednesday night, a couple of teams called the Orioles about the availability of Javy Lopez. The Orioles and Los Angeles Angels started discussions on Wednesday about a trade that would send Lopez to the West Coast for center fielder/first baseman Darin Erstad, according to sources."
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chron.com: The Astros also appear to be close to reaching a two-year contract agreement with free-agent catcher Brad Ausmus. Astro's GM Tim Purpura said a deal could be worked out in the "next several days."

12/08/05
Sacramento Bee: "Billy Beane left baseball's winter meetings Tuesday night. The rest of the A's contingent leaves today, almost certainly with ace left-hander Barry Zito still part of the rotation. Zito remains a hot property for other clubs, but the A's feel no pressure to part ways."
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Seattle Times: The Mariners are on the verge of signing free-agent outfielder Carl Everett to a contract, addressing their need for a left-handed bat.

12/07/05
The Braves are pursuing a trade for Red Sox shortstop Edgar Renteria, offering top third base prospect Andy Marte. The Red Sox then could attempt to move Marte for Devil Rays shortstop Julio Lugo. From ESPN and Fox.
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The Angels are trying to move center fielder Steve Finley in a salary exchange. Among their possible targets: Padres outfielder Ryan Klesko and Giants third baseman Edgardo Alfonzo. Fox.
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The Pirates are close to acquiring first baseman Sean Casey from the Reds for left-hander Dave Williams.

12/06/05
Philadelphia Daily News: "According to National League sources at the winter meetings here, the Cubs asked the Phillies yesterday what it would take to pry away two-time All-Star rightfielder, Gold Glove winner and reigning Home Run Derby champion Bobby Abreu. The answer: Mark Prior."
----That's a crazy dumb trade for the Cubs. Notice, though, how the writer from Philly worded the sentence... like the Phillies would have to be enticed bigtime to let Abreu go. Too funny. The Phillies would have to add a top prospect or two for that trade to happen because young number one starters are hard to come by in comparision to big hitting outfielders.

12/03/05
Fort Worth Star-Telegram: "The Rangers are looking to the trade market to improve their pitching staff, and on Friday, according to a club official, they zeroed in on Oakland Athletics left-hander Barry Zito... The Los Angeles Dodgers are emerging as strong suitors for Alfonso Soriano, and the Toronto Blue Jays are interested in Kevin Mench." (See more on the Dodgers here)
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Cincinnati Post: "Reds GM O'Brien said he isn't limiting his focus to clearing up the longstanding logjam among core outfielders Ken Griffey Jr., Adam Dunn, Austin Kearns and Wily Mo Pena. In fact, he implied that he wouldn't be averse to holding on to all four if a better deal could be made for another piece of the roster."

12/02/05
Pittsburgh Tribune Review: "A Pirates source confirmed Thursday that the club has expressed interest in free-agent infielder Nomar Garciaparra, who spent an injury-plagued 2005 season with the Chicago Cubs."
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Minneapolis Star Tribune: "The Twins are pursuing a deal for Florida Marlins second baseman Luis Castillo, according to a source familiar with negotiations."

12/01/05
New York Post: "Philadelphia and Boston have engaged in serious talks about swapping Manny Ramirez for Bobby Abreu, The Post has learned."
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Los Angeles Times: "Paul Konerko's decision will send Angels GM Stoneman back to the trade market, where he is expected to explore deals for Boston slugger Manny Ramirez, Kansas City first baseman Mike Sweeney, Texas second baseman Alfonso Soriano and possibly Arizona third baseman Troy Glaus or Seattle third baseman Adrian Beltre. The Angels might also look into free-agent infielder Nomar Garciaparra or free-agent catcher Mike Piazza."
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Newsday: "With offers out to catchers Ramon Hernandez and Bengie Molina, Mets GM Minaya seems content to wait on both, but is also in discussions with the Devil Rays about Toby Hall... The Mets already have plenty of starting pitchers, but Minaya is looking for an upgrade, such as the Diamondbacks' Javier Vazquez or the Athletics' Barry Zito."
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Seattle Post-Intelligencer: "At next week's winter meetings, Mariners officials will attach a prohibition to any and all trade discussions: Ichiro Suzuki, Felix Hernandez and Yuniesky Betancourt are off-limits."

11/30/05
Cleveland Plain Dealer: "General Manager Mark Shapiro might be flying out of town in search of a closer in the next few days and Nomar Garciaparra is another name to remember in the Indians' search for a right-handed hitter. Tuesday evening, it was confirmed that Shapiro and manager Eric Wedge are scheduled to meet free agent Trevor Hoffman at his home in Del Mar, Calif., before the start of the winter meetings Monday in Dallas." And, "The Indians still haven't ruled out signing a B-level, free-agent outfielder who can swing the bat, a group that includes Reggie Sanders, Preston Wilson and Juan Encarnacion."
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St. Paul Pioneer Press columnist Charley Walters: "A little birdie says the Kansas City Royals have offered Twins free-agent outfielder Jacque Jones a $24 million, four-year contract."

11/29/05
Los Angeles Times: "The Angels remain in the hunt for free-agent slugger Paul Konerko and are believed to have bumped their initial four-year offer to the Chicago White Sox first baseman to five years and about $60 million... Though the Angels don't plan to match the three-year, roughly $18-million offer the New York Mets gave to Bengie Molina, there is still a chance they could retain the free-agent catcher."
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Fort Worth Star-Telegram: "Rangers second baseman Alfonso Soriano and Oakland Athletics pitcher Barry Zito could be two of the biggest names in trade discussions at next week's winter meetings in Dallas.
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St. Louis Post-Dispatch: "With the winter meetings beginning next Monday in Dallas, the Cardinals continue their courtship of several pitchers - including the ace of the market, righthander A.J. Burnett...Toronto, fresh from splurging for Ryan, also is in the derby for Burnett and San Diego's free-agent outfielder Brian Giles, another perceived target of the Cardinals....Joining Toronto, the Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly interested."

11/25/05
Palm Beach Post: "New manager Joe Girardi said he'll probably hire a batting coach, bullpen coach and bench coach next month after the Marlins continue to mold their 2006 team... He said he and Beinfest have discussed hiring Don Baylor, the former American League MVP who has managed in Colorado and Chicago, as a hitting coach."

11/24/05
Bergen Record: "In New York, Carlos Delgado steps into the middle of the lineup, surrounded by Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran, David Wright and Cliff Floyd. And his arrival provides one more convincing bit of evidence for Billy Wagner to join up to serve as closer for a team that is spending with the intent of becoming the class of a depleted division." Also, "After formally announcing the Delagado deal either today or Friday, the Mets will explore a trade for Alfonso Soriano, which, if completed, would complete the transformation Minaya had dreamt of since becoming the general manager."
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Dallas Morning News: "Having been spurned in their attempt to land Josh Beckett via trade, Rangers GM Jon Daniels confirmed making offers to multiple free-agent pitchers, but declined to name them Wednesday. The most likely candidates are starters Matt Morris and Paul Byrd. "

11/22/05
According to the Boston Globe, the Yankees might jump into the bidding for Marlins 1B Carlos Delgado. ...Meanwhile Newsday says the Yankees recently inquired about the availability of Ichiro Suzuki but were told by Mariners ownership they will not trade him.. Still, the newspaper said, 'Whatever it takes' is basically New York's standing offer for Ichiro in hopes that his feud with manager Mike Hargrove could be impetus to a trade.

11/21/05
Seattle Times: "Scoring the first big-name free-agent signing of the offseason, the Mariners will announce the signing of catcher Kenji Johjima, possibly as soon as today."
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The big trade, which was first reported by ESPN's Peter Gammons, would bring Josh Beckett and Gold Glove third baseman Mike Lowell to Boston, while the Red Sox would part with top shortstop prospect Hanley Ramirez and highly regarded Minor League right-hander Anibal Sanchez. The Associated Press reported late Monday that Minor League pitcher Jesus Delgado would also be included in the deal. (MLB.com)

11/19/05
A deal is in the works that would send hard-throwing right-hander Josh Beckett and three-time All-Star third baseman Mike Lowell to Texas for All-Star third baseman Hank Blalock and a top pitching prospect, reports MLB.com.
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Miami Herald: "Juan Pierre might find himself in the Windy City if the Marlins trade their center fielder. But the Cubs, who are said to be interested in Pierre, could be bidding against the Chicago White Sox, who also have interest in the speedy lead-off hitter."

11/17/05
St. Paul Pioneer Press: "Rumors persist in New York that the Yankees are trying to trade for Twins center fielder Torii Hunter."
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St. Louis Post-Dispatch: "Cardinals free agents Reggie Sanders and Mark Grudzielanek are among the players being pursued this offseason by the Kansas City Royals, baseball's worst team last season with a 56-106 record."

11/16/05
Newsday: "The Yankees were discouraged by Scott Boras' asking price of $84 million over seven years for Johnny Damon, so they will look seriously at signing Brian Giles with the thought of using a rotation in centerfield."
-----RoxHead scratches his bald head wondering how many fans actually buy into this New York media bull about how much the Yankees are concerned about a players asking price. Please! We all know that's a bunch of crap. They make it sound like the Yankees have the same troubles as any other ball club when it comes to payroll.
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High-ranking club officials revealed that the White Sox have informed the Phillies that they want first baseman Jim Thome, from USAtoday.com.

11/15/05
New York Daily News: "The Padres reportedly have an eye on Mike Cameron, with reliever Akinori Otsuka among the possible players heading to Flushing if a deal were consummated... Javier Vazquez, who asked for a trade from Arizona, would like to be dealt to the Mets, where he would reunite with Minaya, his former GM in Montreal. Boston, which will try to accommodate David Wells' trade request, figures to be a more likely destination." (See more on Padres here)
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Cincinnati Enquirer: "There hasn't been much Hot Stove news for the Reds, but here's an ember for fans: Former Reds manager Lou Piniella was in Cincinnati on Monday and was spotted in the downtown building where potential new owner Robert Castellini's offices are located."----------------
Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel: "The Braves and Cubs are among the teams that have contacted Marlins free agent shortstop Alex Gonzalez."
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Dallas Morning News: "As has been reported, A.J. Burnett is at the top of the wish list for the Rangers. Burnett is 28 and has by far the best stuff of any pitcher on the free agent market."
----RoxHead laughs at the Rangers. Buck Showalter is well on his way to ruining that team if the front office listens too much to him. AJ Bernett is a money pit at these prices because he'll never be more than a .500 pitcher.

Information addition..
A team's free-agent gains and losses, in terms of Type A, B, and C free agents, are treated as separate transactions for compensation purposes.

11/14/05
Frm TSN.com: Look for the Tigers to deal disgruntled catcher Ivan Rodriguez (the Mets are interested) and move Brandon Inge back behind the plate.

11/12/05
According to the Miami Herald, the Marlins have made it known they'll listen to offers for at least half its everyday lineup and has had conversations with at least two organizations that centered on 1B Carlos Delgado, CF Juan Pierre and catcher Paul Lo Duca. The team is also shopping Mike Lowell.
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Tampa Tribune: "While it remains too early to determine whether any of those players will be traded, Atlanta's interest in Julio Lugo appears real. Atlanta catcher Johnny Estrada, third baseman Andy Marte and pitcher John Thomson, who had his $4.75 million option for next season picked up recently, are all believed to be available."
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ESPN.com reported that the Brewers were shopping rightfielder Geoff Jenkins to interested parties, which Melvin said was 'totally false.' ...There has been speculation that free agent lefty Jarrod Washburn, a Wisconsin native, is interested in playing for the Brewers but Melvin said he had not spoken with Washburn's agent, Scott Boras.

11/11/05
New York Times: "Yankee GM Brian Cashman said proposals were not exchanged at a dinner meeting, but the Yankees are believed to be interested in offering Hideki Matsui a four-year contract for about $50 million... Cashman said he had spoken with Paul Kinzer, who represents the free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal, about Furcal's interest in playing center, but added that he did not expect to pursue Furcal because it would cost them too much money for what would amount to an audition."
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Palm Beach Post: " Despite being owed $48 million through the next three years, Carlos Delgado has drawn interest at the general managers' meetings this week from at least three teams - the Baltimore Orioles, Seattle Mariners and New York Mets, according to baseball sources."
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Free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal has set a price tag of $50 million over five or six years for his next contract, agent Paul Kinzer told ESPNdeportes.com.
----After RoxHead stops laughing, then we'll ask who could possibly be so dumb as to sign this criminal to that size of a contract? The sad thing is that there will be a couple teams in NYC that will compete with each other to do it.

11/10/05
The St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday declined a $15 million option on outfielder Larry Walker, who announced his retirement after the season but still will get a $1 million buyout.
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Devil Rays center fielder Rocco Baldelli is expected to sign a long-term contract Thursday that could be worth $33 million over six years.
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From Baseball Weekly:
Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard rejected the club's request to play the outfield in winter ball, a decision that will likely force Philadelphia to trade Howard or Jim Thome. The Twins have interest in Thome if the Phillies eat half of the remaining $43.5 million owed to him over the next three seasons.

The Indians have expressed interest in Red Sox slugger Manny Ramirez.

Free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal has no genuine interest in playing second base for the Mets and will either stay in Atlanta or go to the Cubs.
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Daily Southtown: "The Sox made the first move in trying to get Paul Konerko back. Several sources indicated Konerko and his agent, Craig Landis, were sent a four-year, $52 million offer Wednesday."-----RoxHead is laughing at the White Sox for offering a contract that is way over board for a player who has had some good years, but haven't been in that elite category (although, those 40 plus homers in the last two years are nice looking). These type of ridiculous contracts will always screw up a payroll in the future.

11/09/05
Dallas Morning News: "In just two days in the California desert, Rangers general manager Jon Daniels has spoken with at least four clubs who have expressed interest in outfielder Kevin Mench. On Tuesday, the Toronto Blue Jays joined a mix that already included Kansas City, the Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh."
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The Royals have $22 million available for roster improvements.

11/08/05
Trades might become more commonplace than signing free agents this year because of the thin free agent market for top quality players at most positions.

"Most definitely," Cardinals GM Walt Jocketty said. "The fact that this is a down year in the free agent market makes me believe there will be more trading -- and earlier trading -- than usual. I don't think clubs will wait as long to see what happens in free agency." From MLB.com.

Some of those trades could come during the annual Major League Winter Meetings, scheduled for Dec. 5-8 in Dallas because of the complexities of the modern day game and player contracts.
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The Phillies likely will spend the next 3 days trying to determine what kind of interest level there is in Jim Thome and how much of the remaining $46 million he has coming over the next 3 years they would be willing to pick up, says the Philadelphia Daily News. The Dodgers, Orioles and Twins are thought to be interested.
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A number of teams, including Kansas City, the Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh, have all inquired about Rangers OF Kevin Mench, who recently switched agents, says the Dallas Morning News.

11/07/05
St. Louis Post-Dispatch: "The Cardinals are among those teams interested in the availability of Los Angeles Angels outfielders Steve Finley and Darin Erstad in addition to the Cincinnati Reds' Austin Kearns and Adam Dunn. Accompanied at the meetings by assistant GM John Mozeliak and vice president for player personnel Jerry Walker, Walt Jocketty also confirmed the club's interest in free agents Brian Giles and Jacque Jones."

11/05/05
Newsday: "The Mets are ready to beat any offer for Billy Wagner. And with the Phillies already preparing contingency plans in case they lose their free-agent closer, there is a sense that the whole process will be wrapped up quickly... Should Wagner remain in Philadelphia, the Mets already have had preliminary discussions with the agents for Trevor Hoffman and B.J. Ryan, and both appear willing to bolt their former clubs."
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Palm Beach Post: "Expect the Marlins - who likely will trim the payroll - to begin shopping first baseman Carlos Delgado and third baseman Mike Lowell next week at the annual general managers' meetings in Palm Springs, Calif."
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Orange County Register: "General Manager Bill Stoneman indicated it is unlikely catcher Bengie Molina or pitcher Jarrod Washburn will return in 2006."----RoxHead says, "There you go O'Dowd. The catcher you need to help plug the gap between now and Chris Iannetta is there for the taking."

11/04/05
Minneapolis Star Tribune: "The Twins have verified that they have had conversations with Philadelphia management regarding a possible transaction for first baseman Jim Thome, where the Phillies would have to pick up a good share of Thome's contract. The deal has a balance of $43.5 million remaining for three years."
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Seattle Times: "Joe Bick, the agent for Brian Giles, confirmed the Mariners have expressed interest in the left-handed-hitting outfielder, who turned down a three-year, $21 million offer from the Padres before filing for free agency."
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Washington Post: "The Nationals have already been in contact with the agents for the top starters on the market: Florida's A.J. Burnett, Cleveland's Kevin Millwood and lefty Jarrod Washburn of the Los Angeles Angels."
11/03/05
Boston Globe: "Arizona general manager Josh Byrnes, who last week was the assistant GM of the Sox, quashed speculation raised in yesterday's Los Angeles Times of a possible three-way deal between the Red Sox, Diamondbacks, and Angels that would send Manny Ramirez to Los Angeles and bring Arizona third baseman Troy Glaus and Angels first baseman Darin Erstad to Boston." (see more on the DBack's here)
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Toronto Sun: " Yesterday, it was A.J. Burnett, the cream of the free agent pitching crop, being shown the finer sights in Toronto... Next up to tour the city is believed to be Baltimore Orioles closer B.J. Ryan."
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Philadelphia Inquirer: "Some believe the Phillies should let Billy Wagner walk and spread the roughly $30 million it will take to sign the closer on a variety of needs. New GM Pat Gillick is on board with the thinking of his predecessor, Ed Wade, and the remaining baseball people: He wants to sign Wagner."
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New York Post:"Along with Bengie Molina - whom the Mets have already expressed interest in - the best free agent catcher is Ramon Hernandez. Yesterday, his agent, Eric Goldschmidt, admitted that Hernandez is interested in the Mets." (See more on the Padres here)
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Baltimore Sun: "According to team sources, the Orioles likely will target the Cleveland Indians' Kevin Millwood and the Angels' Paul Byrd, two pitchers who are familiar with Orioles pitching coach Leo Mazzone from their days in Atlanta. The St. Louis Cardinals' Matt Morris, Los Angeles Dodgers' Jeff Weaver and the Angels' Jarrod Washburn are other options the Orioles figure to explore."
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ESPN.com explores why the Free Agent market is so thin this year. (See Here)

11/02/05
Several reports suggest that Red Sox slugger Manny Ramirez is pushing hard to be traded and the Hartford Courant says the outfielder will not report to spring training if his demand isn't met.
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Newspapers in Chicago are saying the Cubs will pursue center fielder Juan Pierre to fill their leadoff hitter's role if the Marlins make him available.

11/01/05
New York Post: " Bengie Molina's agent, Alan Nero, said last night that the Mets have expressed interest in the free-agent backstop."
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Chicago Sun-Times: "The Sox on Monday picked up the $1.2 million option on right-handed reliever Cliff Politte and declined the option on designated hitter Carl Everett, instead paying him a $500,000 buyout. The decision won't preclude the Sox from negotiating with Everett, a favorite of general manager Ken Williams, who twice traded for the veteran switch hitter."
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Seattle Post-Intelligencer: "Kenji Jojima, 29, has an option to remain in Japan, where he was the 2003 Pacific League most valuable player as a member of the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks. But sources in Japan say Jojima will travel to the United States this month to gauge interest in him on the part of big league teams."

10/30/05
Philadelphia Inquirer: "It isn't going to be that complicated after all. David Montgomery, facing the most important decision of his tenure in charge of the Phillies, will hire either Gerry Hunsicker or Pat Gillick as the team's new general manager." Also, "First baseman Jim Thome should draw a lot of interest from American League teams this winter. Among the leading contender for his services are Minnesota and Baltimore, with the White Sox possibly getting in the mix depending on what happens with Paul Konerko."

10/29/05
New York Daily News: "With the World Series over, the Mets began contacting the representatives for free agents, including San Diego's Trevor Hoffman and the Yankees' Tom Gordon... Their top closing targets appear to be Philadelphia's Billy Wagner and Baltimore's B.J. Ryan." (see more on the Padres here)
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Chicago Tribune: "The Cubs on Friday picked up the 2006 options on second baseman Todd Walker and reliever Scott Williamson while declining the option of outfielder Jeromy Burnitz."

10/28/05
Chicago Tribune: "One of the most interesting decisions facing Hendry is whether to bring back center fielder Corey Patterson, who regressed at the plate and in the field in '05. Texas is rumored to be interested in making a deal for Patterson, and Hendry is expected to get other feelers if he decides to trade the enigmatic outfielder."

10/27/05
The Mariners are expected to decline their 2006 option on Eddie Guardado, enabling the team's closer to file for free agency, says the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
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Free Agent List (See Here)

10/26/05
New York Post reports, "Help in center will likely come from the trade market since the Yankees don't want to get involved in a long-term deal with Johnny Damon, who will be 32 early next month. Torii Hunter, Mike Cameron and Milton Bradley will be shopped." And, "Oakland might make Barry Zito available if it could find an affordable, young pitcher that fits its strike-throwing, homer-reducing philosophies. Aaron Heilman might fit that mode."
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According to the Royals Web site, Kevin Appier is planning a comeback (again) next season and has applied for reinstatement to the commissioner's office. Appier retired at the end of spring training after it became apparent that the Royals didn�t have a spot for him on their 25-man roster.

10/23/05
According to one major league scout, The Boston Globe reports, this is the hottest Hot Stove talk: 'Torii Hunter to the Yankees, but the Red Sox also like him . . . Troy Glaus in a Sox-Diamondbacks deal which could involve some big prospects, though Glaus is not the OBP type of guy they like" (see more on the DBacks here)

10/22/05
From the Philadelphia Inquirer, "It makes sense to wait at this point, and that's exactly what Billy Wagner plans to do. Wait... The Boston Red Sox, New York Mets and Atlanta Braves could be interested."
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Newsday.com reports, "The Mets recently made Mike Piazza an offer he can and will refuse, all but closing the book on his Mets tenure after a storied seven-plus-year run... The top free-agent options include Bengie Molina and Ramon Hernandez, as well as Kenji Jojima of the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks of the Japanese League."

10/21/05
The wheels are back in motion for the Red Sox to trade Manny Ramirez if the slugger wants it, says the Boston Herald, with the Angels, Indians, and Diamondbacks as possible destinations.
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Paul Konerko's father Hank has told the Chicago Tribune's Mark Gonzalez and Paul Sullivan that his son will definitely be testing the free agent waters this winter.

10/19/05
Fron Baseball Weekly:
The Red Sox are offering Manny Ramirez to the Mets for Carlos Beltran.

The White Sox plan to buy out Frank Thomas' contract, but they will consider bringing him back if free agent Paul Konerko leaves for the Angels.

10/17/05
According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, there are rumors about the Phillies send Jim Thome and David Bell to Seattle for disgruntled third-base slugger Adrian Beltre.

From TSN.com:
Brian Giles, a potential free agent, wants to stay in San Diego, but if no deal can be worked out, the Cardinals likely will be his No. 1 choice. (see more on the Padres here)

The Reds, expected to be open to trading LF Adam Dunn, want top young pitching in return. The Astros, Dodgers and Red Sox could be among the suitors, along with two low-revenue clubs that plan to spend more--the Royals and Blue Jays

10/15/05
Several New York newspapers are reporting that setup man Tom Gordon will leave the Yankees because he wants to be a closer and that he could end up with the Mets.

10/13/05

Yankees
Manny Ramirez with the Yankees? According to the Bergen Record, Ramirez has brought up the subject with friends recently, raising an intriguing possibility in light of Alex Rodriguez's collapse in the ALDS.

The Yankees need to address their center field situation before next season and the New York Daily News is speculating about their options. Among them are trading for the Mets' Mike Cameron or Minnesota's Torii Hunter or dipping into the free agent pool which could have Boston's Johnny Damon, San Diego Brian Giles or Minnesota's Jacque Jones.

Contrary to Yankees rumors, the Twins insist there is "zero interest" in trading outfielder Torii Hunter. -- St. Paul Pioneer Press

Off Season Moves & Rumors

(2005)

12/28/05
Colorado has made an offer to Pedro Astacio, a free agent who has a home in the Denver area and is the Rockies' career leader in wins and starts. signonsandiego.com

Byung-Hyun Kim, more receptive to Colorado's $1.5 million base contract offer, is on the verge of re-signing after taking steps to secure a visa for a face-to-face discussion with Rockies officials. Post.
----At least get some starter in here! The Rox at this point are in trouble in the rotational depth chart.

Colorado also has expressed interest in reliever Shigetoshi Hasegawa. Post.
----Why? We need starters not relievers.

12/26/05
Willie Harris, 27, recently non-tendered by the Chicago White Sox, made it clear through agent Daryl Buford that Colorado was his No. 1 choice among the four teams -- two in each league -- pursuing him. Harris, who in 2005 batted .256, did time in Triple-A, but also saw postseason action -- 2-for-2 in three games, two in the World Series -- for the World Series champs. (MLB.com)
---Harris is a much better deal for a utility player than Omar Quintanilla will ever be.

12/22/05
The Rockies tendered offers to first-time arbitration-eligible right-handed starters Aaron Cook, Zach Day and Sunny Kim, and catcher Yorvit Torrealba. That means the Rockies retain exclusive rights with all of them. If agreements aren't reached through negotiations then their salaries could be set -- either a figure offered by the player or by the team in each case -- through an arbitration hearing. (MLB.com)
----------------
Another pitcher could be in Colorado's mix. The agent for Kaz Ishii made contact with the Rockies shortly after the New York Mets released the right-hander. (MLB.com)
----No thanks.

12/21/05
The News Tribune: The Mariners offered Gil Meche a contract but... "could still trade Meche. The Colorado Rockies are said to have interest in the right-hander."
----Meche would be a nice arm to have in the rotation, but is he really worth all the hub-bub about? Probably not, because even though he does have a career winning record, his strikeout to walk ratio of less than 2 is scary bad for a Coors Field pitcher.
---------------
Colorado also is expected to pursue outfielder Eric Byrnes, who wore purple pinstripes briefly last year. And Chicago White Sox infielder Willie Harris. (from many sources)
---------------
The Colorado Rockies announced this afternoon that they have signed right-handed pitcher Jose Acevedo and outfielder Ryan Spilborghs to minor league contracts. Both players were non-tendered prior to last night's deadline. The two players were assigned to Triple-A Colorado Springs and both will receive invites to major league spring training.

info..
With only 37 players currently on the 40-man roster, the Rockies have added flexibility to sign other free agents.

12/20/05
Closer Brian Fuentes and the Colorado Rockies agreed to a $5.5 million, two-year contract on Monday, Dec. 19th.
---------------
The Rockies also are expected to inquire about Ryan Franklin, nontendered by Seattle. The Post.

12/19/05
Rockies will explore signing second baseman Junior Spivey if he's nontendered Tuesday. Denver Post
----Spivey doesn't excit RoxHead enough to write much about. He hit .232 last year on a team that was in the race the first half of the season. No wonder he is available.

12/16/05
The Colorado Rockies have traded left-hander Luis Enrique Gonzalez to the Seattle Mariners for cash considerations.
----This finishes the Carvajal for Torrealba trade. The cash was probably the $50,000 rule 5 draft fee.

The Rockies also acquired minor league first baseman Aaron Rifkin from the Chicago Cubs for a player to be named or cash considerations.
----This trade was made because Ryan Shealy is converting from being a AAA first baseman behind Todd Helton, to becoming a big league outfielder, thus the Sky Sox needed a first baseman.

Colorado acquired minor league outfielder Cedrick "Doc" Brooks from Washington as the player to be named in the July 13 trade for outfielder Preston Wilson. Catcher Miguel Ojeda cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A Colorado Springs, the Rockies said.
----Brooks will never pickup a paycheck in Denver.

To complete another trade, the Rockies accepted cash from Pittsburgh for outfielder Michael Restovich.

12/14/05
The Rockies are maintaining contact with many possible targets, including Brett Tomko, who went 8-15 for San Francisco last season and was not offered arbitration by the Giants this winter (MLB.com)
----This would be a good pickup for the Rockies. Tomko is a nine inning pitcher who had 3 complete games last year and 12 in his nine year big-league career. He is an innings eater, which the Rockies need .

12/08/05
The Rox signed free-agent right-handed reliever Jose Mesa. Mesa was not offered arbitration by Pittsburgh last night, meaning that Colorado does not lose any draft picks with this signing.
----Probably one too many signings. The Rox really don't need Mesa for the $2 million he was signed for unless, of course, Fuentes is traded off.
------------------
Brian Fuentes' representatives said they are not interested in a third-year club option on a multiyear deal, which O'Dowd has said is a potential deal-breaker. The Post.
----Fuentes will be gone within two years.
------------------
Rule 5 Draft activity: Selected LHP Luis Enrique Gonzalez from the Los Angeles Dodgers with the second overall pick of the Major League phase. Colorado also picked up two players in the Minor League phases. The Chicago Cubs drafted first baseman Aaron Rifkin from Seattle and sent him to the Rockies for a player to be named in the Triple-A phase, and the Rockies grabbed left-handed reliever Edgar Huerta from San Diego in the Double-A phase. (MLB.com)

12/07/05
The Colorado Rockies acquired catcher Yorvit Torrealba from the Seattle Mariners for a player to be named later. And in a separate deal, the Rockies acquired left-handed reliever Ray King from the Cardinals for second baseman Aaron Miles and outfielder Larry Bigbie.

Seattle Times: The player was announced this morning as right-handed pitcher Marcos Carvajal.
----RoxHead has a problem with the Carvajal deal. O'Dowd paid too much for a defensive catcher that are all over the minor leagues in bunches. King is a nice veteran lefty.
------------------
The Colorado Rockies offered arbitration at the deadline to free agent Byung-Hyun Kim.
----This is a bit of surprise. Kim made over $6 million in 2005 and if you offer abritration, then you can only cut a players salary by 20% which means they must offer a contract close to $5 million.
------------------
Colorado did not offer arbitration to any of their other free agents, catcher Todd Greene, right-handed pitcher Dan Miceli and right-handed pitcher Jamey Wright. The Rockies cannot sign any of them to a Major League contract until May 1.
----This means Jamey Wright is out as far as resigning him for next year which is a shame.

12/06/05
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: "Jose Mesa, the Pirates' closer most of the past two seasons, is close to signing with the Colorado Rockies out of free agency."
------------------
Denver Post: The Rockies are pushing hard to trade AAAron Miles to the Florida Marlins or the Kansas City Royals, possibly in return for a low-level minor-league prospect. O'Dowd said the team has no chance of signing Shawn Estes, given the way the market has exploded for starting pitchers.
-----------------
The Rox have signed veteran reliever Brett Prinz to a minor-league contract and plans to invite him to spring training.
-----------------
"Catching is something we are going to explore aggressively," O'Dowd said.
-------------------
In addition to offering Larry Bigbie in hopes of filling a catching need - to Cleveland for Josh Bard and to Seattle for Yorvit Torrealba - the Rockies also have talked about sending him to the Chicago Cubs for a relief pitcher, reports the Rocky.
------------------
Rocky: The Rockies have a $1 million offer on the table to re-sign Byung- Hyun Kim, but O'Dowd isn't optimistic about Kim accepting that before Wednesday's deadline for teams to offer their free agents arbitration.
----If Kim would sign for a million, then RoxHead would have no problem with that. Too bad about Estes. This head is becoming concerned about the lack of depth in the rotation.

So much so that this latest find from the News Tribune.com is incredible indeed:

Sources say the Mariners have already approached the Rockies to inquire about starters Aaron Cook and Jason Jennings. But Colorado has balked so far.
----Oh my, that's scary.

12/03/05
Rockie GM Dan O'Dowd believes the Rockies can fill their holes and stay within a budget between $45 million and $50 million. To do that, the Rockies will stay with their building plan, which means the 2006 squad will be dominated by the same players, who were mainly first- and second-year players in 2005. (MLB.com)

12/01/05
Tacoma News Tribune: Seattle is said to be interested in Colorado outfielder Larry Bigbie, a 28-year-old left-handed hitter."
-----------------
Denver Post: "As the Rockies prepare trade winter-meeting trade proposals for Cubs reliever Todd Wellemeyer and Phillies outfielder Jason Michaels, among others, their free-agent wish list for starters has crystallized. It includes Shawn Estes, Pedro Astacio, Tony Armas Jr. and Byung-Hyun Kim."

11/30/05
Bullpen lefty, Randy Williams, who was not claimed off waivers, re-signed with the team for $350,000 in the majors with $95,000 guaranteed.

11/27/05
Beaver County Times: "Colorado has interest in free-agent relievers Brian Meadows and Jose Mesa, who aren't expected to be re-signed by the Pirates."
----Both are nothing to get excited about.

11/26/05
St. Louis Post-Dispatch: "San Francisco apparently is one of the teams interested in Cardinals free-agent pitcher Matt Morris, plus Texas, Seattle, Los Angeles Dodgers, Baltimore, Colorado and possibly Milwaukee."
----Come on, do you really believe that crap? Maybe the agent has included the Rockies just to bid up the contract demand but you can pretty much guarantee that the Rox are not in play, which makes one wonder how many other of those teams are really interested.

11/24/05
Catcher Toby Hall has drawn interest from the Mets, Diamondbacks, Rockies and Marlins, who wouldn't mind ditching Paul LoDuca and his $12.5-million salary the next two seasons. Hall, who is arbitration-eligible, is expected to make about $5-million less, reports the St. Petersburg Times.
---- RoxHead doesn't have much to say about Toby Hall. You can view Hall's bio here.

11/22/05
Denver Post: "Another option could be a trade. The Cleveland Indians have expressed interest in Ryan Shealy, while the Rockies have shown interest in Indians catcher Josh Bard."
----Bad trade. Period.

11/21/05
Left-hander Shawn Estes, a pitcher the Rockies have shown interest in signing, has indicated he's looking for a two-year deal. The Rockies figure to wait and see if the market forces Estes to reconsider . . . Former Rockies right-hander Pedro Astacio is asking for a base salary of $3.5 million, which has put the Rockies' pursuit of him on hold, reports the Rocky.

11/20/05
Cleveland Plain Dealer: "Don't be surprised if the catching-poor Colorado Rockies re-acquire Indians backup catcher Josh Bard, whom they traded to Cleveland in 2001. Word is, Rockies officials think Bard, a switch-hitter, could hit 15 to 18 home runs in Colorado's thin air. "
----Heads up on this came from Purple Row.

11/19/05
The Rockies have shown interest in acquiring Paul Lo Duca from the Marlins, but the $12.5 million remaining obligation on the final two years of his contract could be a deterrent, according to the Sun-Sentinel.
----O'Dowd will never pull that trade off. And if he does, then he'll probably give away too much in terms of players and/or contract responibilities.

11/17/05
Denver Post: "The Rockies are rearranging their free-agent shopping list. Moving up the list is veteran right-handed reliever Jose Mesa.

11/15/05
Denver Post: "The Rockies were advised coveted right-hander Elmer Dessens was leaning heavily toward accepting a more lucrative two-year offer to join the Kansas City Royals...Chris Hammond remains a possibility, while Terry Mulholland's agent Joe Bick said, 'It's not real likely that something will get done' with Colorado."
----RoxHead says goodluck to Dessens money grab in KC. The Rox have no business over paying for middle relievers even though they are a critical part of a modern day team.

11/14/05
Rocky Mountain News columnist Tracy Ringolsby: "Brad Ausmus would be an interesting off-season possibility for the Rockies in their attempt to strengthen their catching... Left-hander Shawn Estes doesn't rule out a return to the Rockies, but his first desire is to re-sign in Arizona, where he lives in the off-season."
----RoxHead has no problem signing Ausmus.

11/11/05
Denver Post: "'There are going to be deals,' Indians general manager Mark Shapiro said, 'that will raise eyebrows.' None will come from the Rockies, but they are prepared to offer two-year deals in an attempt to land either Elmer Dessens or Brian Meadows, a philosophical shift after not giving relievers a multiyear contract since 2000."
----Just great. We get to watch from the sidelines once again as the baseball world turns.
------------------------
Rocky: The Rockies have inquired about the availability of Chris Reitsma of the Atlanta Braves and Guillermo Mota of the Florida Marlins.
More significantly, they opened discussions with Brian Fuentes' agent about a multiyear contract. No Rockies closer in the past decade has had multiyear security.

11/08/05
RoxHead hasn't found any new names connected to the Rockies for the past few days. Also, the $9 million figure the Rockies have to spend has now officially popped up in both Denver papers. It is thereby written in stone.

11/06/05
"I would say that, priority- wise, we are looking at a starting pitcher and an eighth-inning reliever and a guy who could spot start for us," general manager Dan O'Dowd told the Denver Post.

11/05/05
Denver Post: The Rockies are interested in outfielders Marquis Grissom, Jeff Conine, and pitcher Elmer Dessens, who remains perched atop their wish list. The Rockies have been the most aggressive of the four teams pursuing the right-hander who has a sincere desire to play in Colorado. Dessens tops a group of relievers the Rockies have targeted in preliminary discussions, including San Diego's Chris Hammond, Texas' Doug Brocail and Pittsburgh's Brian Meadows.
----Don't even bother with Grissom, but Conine might be okay. Dressens' name is poping up a lot all over the web.
---------------------
The Rockies have re-signed reliever David Cortes to a $360,000 contract

11/04/05
GM Dan O'Dowd is taking a look at in-house youth for outfield depth. With first baseman Todd Helton not going anywhere soon, other teams figure to ask about prospect Ryan Shealy, but O'Dowd told MLB.com, "Our focus is on how we're going to find a fit for him here." That could mean a platoon with Brad Hawpe in right field and as a right-handed bench player to complement left-swinging Jorge Piedra."
-------------------
Ryan Shealy has been chosen as one of 24 players who will represent the U.S. at the CONCEBE Regional Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Phoenix Nov. 15-19. Pitching prospect Jim Miller also was named to the squad, which was announced on Thursday.

10/31/05
The Rocky reports: Add former Dodgers general manager Paul DePodesta to the list of possible off-season additions for the Rockies.
---
RoxHead just watched this man completely ruin the Dodgers in less than 2 years, so lets bring him on board. That sounds like a good move.

Not.

10/28/05
Denver Post: "With reliever Mike DeJean back in the fold, their wish list includes the Los Angeles Dodgers' Elmer Dessens, Athletics setup man Jay Witasick (who the A's want to resign), Giants left-hander Scott Eyre and minor-league free agent Nate Field... Believing a left-handed setup man is critical, the Rockies have identified the Twins' J.C. Romero and the White Sox's Damaso Marte as trade targets."
----More pitchers. Yes.

10/27/05
The Rockies, who have $9 million to spend in free agency, have interest in late-inning relievers Elmer Dessens and Julian Tavarez and starters Shawn Estes and Pedro Astacio, says the Denver Post.
---RoxHead again reiterates that we have no problem signing pitchers. Bring them all in.

This is the first time we've seen a specific dollar figure in terms of how much they are willing to spend this offseason. Let's see how much this number changes in the next few months.

10/24/05
Tracy Ringolsby writes, "Right-hander Pedro Astacio and infielder Neifi Perez are on the list of players the team has interest in signing this off-season."
---RoxHead would not be opposed to signing Astacio for depth in the rotation, but forget Perez. He would command over a million to sign and the Rox don't need to pay a utility player that kind of cash while they are rebuilding.

10/20/05
Reliever Mike DeJean agreed in principle to a one-year, $1.15 million contract.
------------
According to the Denver Post, the Rockies are seeking veteran relievers and have interest in Atlanta's Chris Reitsma, the Dodgers' Elmer Dessens and, in a long shot, San Francisco's Scott Eyre.

10/17/05
The Rockies are looking for right-handed swing man for the pitching staff, and will watch closely to see what Los Angeles does with right-hander Elmer Dessens, says the Rocky Mountain News. The Dodgers are expected to decline his $1.3 million option and pay the $250,000 buyout. Colorado, meanwhile, has made overtures to Dessens each of the past two seasons, but was outbid.

10/14/05
Bob McClure and Fred Kendall are hired by the Royals.
--------
Both ESPN and the Denver Post have speculated that the trade that didn't happen during the season involving Larry Bigbie for Kelly Shoppach, may be on again.
----RoxHead would be opposed to this trade if Ryan Shealy was involved. With Chris Iannetta coming up in the next few years, why use a valuable Shealy on a catching prospect?

10/11/05
The Colorado Rockies announced today that the club has acquired catcher Miguel Ojeda on a waiver claim from the Seattle Mariners.
----RoxHead has no opinion on this player.

10/07/05
The Rockies said that they would not pick up Dustan Mohr's $1.5 million option for 2006; he received a $100,000 buyout.
--
The Rockies claimed lefty Jaime Cerda off waivers from Kansas City.
----It's always nice to pile up bullpen arms, so RoxHead isn't opposed to this signing.

10/04/05
The Rockies announced on Tuesday, Oct 3rd that they will pick up Matt Holliday's 2006 option at $500,000. That's more than $100,000 greater than the average salary for a player with his service time.

San Diego Padres
(2005)

12/27/05
Padres General manager Kevin Towers yesterday renewed talks with the Boston Red Sox regarding David Wells and spoke to the agent of Pedro Astacio as division rivals also pursued both pitchers. Signonsandiego.com

12/20/05
The Rangers made a major move to bolster their pitching Tuesday, reaching a tentative agreement to acquire right-handed starter Adam Eaton, right-handed setup man Akinori Otsuka and minor-league catcher Billy Killian from the Padres for right-handed starter Chris Young, first baseman Adrian Gonzalez and outfielder Terrmel Sledge, FOXSports.com has confirmed.

12/16/05
FOX.com: The Padres, Rangers and Mets still have questions at second base. The Padres could sign one of the remaining free agents - Luis Rivas, Pokey Reese, Rich Aurilia and Mark Bellhorn - to compete with Bobby Hill and Josh Barfield. Another option for the Padres is to sign another reliever, then trade right-hander Akinori Otsuka for a second baseman. San Diego is one of several clubs pursuing Japanese relievers.

12/13/05
The Padres, who nearly had a deal done for free agent Nomar Garciaparra, backed out. BaseballWeekly.

12/12/05
San Diego Union-Tribune: "The Padres are negotiating with starting pitcher Pedro Astacio and have until Jan. 8 to get a deal done. They remain interested in Red Sox left-hander David Wells, the Ocean Beach product who wants to return to San Diego."

12/08/05
San Francisco Chronicle: " The Padres, despite having Ryan Klesko, are among teams interested in JT Snow, according to a high-placed major-league source. A different source said the Dodgers, Red Sox and Royals expressed interest."
-------------------------
The Padres, who aren�t blessed with great depth in their farm system, lost six players in the Triple-A and Double-A phases of the Rule V draft, including righthanders Eddie Bonine (to the Tigers) and Geivy Garcia (Cubs); lefthander Edgar Huerta (Rockies); infielders Ronnie Merrill (A�s) and Peetet Ramos (Phillies); and outfielder Brian Burgamy (Phillies). (Baseball America.com)

12/07/05
Fox Sports: The Padres have discussed the trade in which they would send second baseman Mark Loretta to the Red Sox for catcher Doug Mirabelli, a move that would free up about $2 million to help the team re-sign free-agent closer Trevor Hoffman. A trade of Loretta also would create an opening for the Padres to sign Nomar Garciaparra. The Padres also are discussing the acquisition of left hander David Wells from the Red Sox, but likely would require the Sox to take right hander Woody Williams in return.

12/05/05
Free-agent RF Brian Giles was within 15 minutes of signing with another club, believed to be the Dodgers, when he agreed to a three-year, $30 million contract with the Padres. The offer Giles refused was for three years, $34.5 million, with the chance to increase to $44 million if he met a vesting option based on plate appearances. His deal with the Padres, which includes a club option for a fourth year, maxes out at $36 million. The Blue Jays, Yankees and Indians also pursued Giles, whose on-base plus slugging percentage in road games was the sixth highest in the majors last season. . . . reports TSN.com.

12/03/05
Dallas Morning News: "The Rangers talked with San Diego at the GM meetings about a potential deal for right-hander Adam Eaton that would send Gerald Laird and Adrian Gonzalez to the Padres. They have also had basic talks with Toronto."

11/24/05
San Diego Union-Tribune: "The likelihood of Brian Giles returning to the Padres next season took a severe hit yesterday when the club rejected a three-year proposal that the right fielder's agent said was 'significantly less' than what Giles can get elsewhere... "

11/21/05
From the Rocky: Eric Young is expected to re-sign with the San Diego Padres as a utility player.
------------------
Infielder Bobby Hill, acquired by Pittsburgh from the Cubs in the 2003 trade for third baseman Aramis Ramirez, was dealt Monday to the San Diego Padres for a player to be named, reports ESPN.com.

11/20/05
Boston Globe: "The Sox have told David Wells and his agent, Greg Clifton, that they intend to move the lefthander, likely to the San Diego Padres in a deal that could bring center fielder Dave Roberts and a pitcher back to Boston. But the Padres have been waiting for the Red Sox to get their management team together."
-----------------
New York Post: "According to the agent for Mark Sweeney, the Mets are one of four teams in the running for the left-handed hitting first baseman/outfielder...
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Minneapolis Star Tribune: "If the Padres don't sign free agent Brian Giles, they will definitely go after Twins free agent outfielder Jacque Jones, who lives in San Diego...

11/17/05
Atlanta Journal-Constitution: "Atlanta has inquired about free agent Trevor Hoffman. The 38-year-old San Diego Padres icon ranks second all-time with 436 saves, and Hoffman converted 43 of 46 saves last season while posting a 2.97 ERA. In two seasons since returning from shoulder surgery, he has 84 saves with a 2.64 ERA."

11/16/05
The New York Mets and the San Diego Padres are on the verge of a deal that would send Mike Cameron to San Diego for first baseman/outfielder Xavier Nady and reliever Akinori Otsuka, baseball officials told ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney and the New York Daily News on Wednesday.

11/11/05
Boston Herald: "The Red Sox and Padres are believed to be at a temporary standstill over the David Wells trade talks, with the Sox remaining interested in Padres right-handed reliever Akinori Otsuka."
-----------------
Minneapolis Star Tribune columnist Sid Hartman: "The word is that the Padres and the Mariners are the two teams most interested in signing Twins free-agent outfielder Jacque Jones."

11/10/05
Dallas Morning News: "Two major league sources said Wednesday the Rangers and San Diego Padres have had multiple discussions about 29-year-old right-hander Adam Eaton. The Padres, who need catching, are believed to be focusing their interests on a package centered around catcher Gerald Laird."
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"The Los Angels Angels and San Diego Padres are discussing a mutual salary dump of Steve Finley for Ryan Klesko," reports Newsday.

11/09/05
Newsday: "The San Diego Padres and Texas Rangers have discussed a trade that would send former Yankee Alfonso Soriano and centerfielder Laynce Nix to San Diego for starting pitcher Adam Eaton and second baseman Mark Loretta."

11/07/05
San Diego Union-Tribune: "Kevin Towers said he's still "hopeful" that he will retain two of San Diego's front-line free agents, closer Trevor Hoffman and right fielder Brian Giles... Catcher Ramon Hernandez, described as irreplaceable by several Padres teammates last season, still seems likely to depart in free agency."

11/06/05
Kevin Towers will remain with the Padres following a hectic two-week stretch in which he interviewed for the Arizona Diamondbacks' GM job, was considered to have a shot at filling the vacant job with the Boston Red Sox and was sought by the rival Los Angeles Dodgers for their GM opening.

11/03/05
In a swap of veterans coming off substandard seasons, the Padres sent right-handed starter Brian Lawrence to the Nationals for third baseman Vinny Castilla. This means Joe Randa is gone and that Sean Burroughs is back on the trading block.

11/01/05
San Diego Union-Tribune: "The Padres and free-agent relief pitcher Trevor Hoffman are at least one season and $15 million apart in initial talks regarding a new contract."

10/28/05
San Diego Union-Tribune: "A three-year offer of more than $21 million from the Padres didn't prevent right fielder Brian Giles, the club's presumptive Most Valuable Player in 2005, from filing for free agency yesterday along with four others." And.. "Alderson and Towers met with closer Trevor Hoffman yesterday and made him a contractual offer. Hoffman can become a free agent within the next two weeks." And.. "Guaranteed, the Padres would like Ryan Klesko to fit into somebody else's plans, but he's not the entire problem. If he wants to stay, he'll stay - or get bought out (a possibility if he doesn't come around in spring training)... And free-agent catcher Ramon Hernandez?"
---That last part made very little sense. Sometimes RoxHead wonders who writes this crap??

10/21/05
A number of rumors around the league suggest that Boston GM Theo Epstein could take over the same job with the Padres if current GM Kevin Towers leaves for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

10/16/05
Hot Stove thoughts from The Mad Friars.

10/10/05
According to the San Diego Union Tribune, the Padres do not expect catcher Ramon Hernandez, who will be a free agent, to return next season.

Los Angeles Dodgers
(2005)

12/29/05
The Los Angeles Dodgers met twice with National Football League officials this fall to discuss the possibility of building a football stadium next to Dodger Stadium, according to a report in the Los Angeles Times.

12/23/05
Los Angeles Times: "Re-signing Jeff Weaver remains a possibility. Although the Dodger payroll has eclipsed $90 million, Ned Colletti said he has permission from owner Frank McCourt to continue spending."
----------------------
Kevin Kennedy, Foxsports.com: "Sources tell me that there is a possibility that Cesar Izturis could miss the entire 2006 season."

12/22/05
Los Angeles Times: "Colletti continues to have discussions with Scott Boras, the agent for right-handers Kevin Millwood and Jeff Weaver, the best pitchers remaining on the free-agent market besides Roger Clemens... The Chicago White Sox are shopping right-hander Jon Garland, but the asking price might be too high for the Dodgers, who don't want to trade top pitching prospects."

12/19/05
Riverside Press Enterprise: " Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti is still pursuing a starting outfielder and the club has made offers to former Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Kenny Lofton, 38, and former St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Reggie Sanders, 38."

12/16/05
ESPN.com: Ned Colletti told reporters Wednesday he had made an offer to Nomar Garciaparra. When asked if he was optimistic, Colletti replied: "I don't have any comment on that. I don't get optimistic until a player signs. Too many things happen."

12/15/05
Post writer George King says the Dodgers may be willing to go longer than four years on a deal for free agent Johnny Damon, likely putting them in the negotiation driver's seat ahead of the Yankees and Red Sox.
----The Dodgers need some outfielders to balance out their growing financial mess, so signing Damon would be perfect.

12/13/05
The Dodgers were trying to put together a package to land A's left-handed starting pitcher Barry Zito, reports USAtoday.com

12/09/05
LA Daily News: Free agent Bill Mueller still is at the top of the Dodgers' third-base wish list, but no deal appears imminent. Without naming names, Dodger's GM Ned Colletti seemed to hint that celebrated prospect Andy LaRoche might be ready to come to the big leagues and play every day despite never having played above Double-A.

12/07/05
Philadelphia Inquirer: "The teams have discussed a deal that would send rightfielder Bobby Abreu and possibly third baseman David Bell to the Dodgers for Derek Lowe or Brad Penny.

12/06/05
Boston Globe: "The Dodgers, according to an industry source, are making a push for David Wells, who has requested a trade to the West Coast to be closer to his San Diego-area home."

12/5/05
Los Angeles Daily News: "The Dodgers are engaged in discussions with the Oakland Athletics on a potential trade that would involve troubled Dodgers outfielder Milton Bradley and A's left-hander and former Cy Young Award winner Barry Zito."

12/1/05
Los Angeles Times: "The only other free-agent outfielder with the credentials of Brian Giles, who has a stellar .413 career on-base percentage, is Johnny Damon. However, Damon is seeking a seven-year deal and the Dodgers don't believe he merits a contract that long. Among others available are Reggie Sanders, Preston Wilson, Jeromy Burnitz and Jacque Jones."

11/30/05
Los Angeles Times: "The Dodgers also are negotiating with free agent Rafael Furcal, the veteran Atlanta Brave shortstop and leadoff batter. GM Ned Colletti met with Furcal's agent, Adam Katz, Tuesday night and Furcal is expected to choose between the Dodgers, Chicago Cubs and Braves." According to MLB.com, a three-year offer believed to be valued at an eye-opening $39 million was offered.
----This player, in a normal free agent year, would be signed in the $6-7 million a year range.

11/29/05
Orange County Register: "The Dodgers have received permission from the Chicago Cubs to interview Grady Little and the New York Mets to interview Manny Acta for their vacant managerial position."

1111/24/05
St. Petersburg Times: "The hottest commodity is believed to be centerfielder Joey Gathright with nine teams showing interest including the Dodgers, who seem the most ardent, the Cubs and the White Sox. The Padres were thought to be out front but apparently don't have the minor-league depth to provide the high-end prospects the Rays covet."
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From CBS.com: Owner Frank McCourt's promise to keep the payroll up around $100 million is a hollow phrase from the past. Industry sources expect the Dodgers to check in at around $75 million when the '06 season opens. Several industry sources also expect Ned Colletti to name veteran Jim Fregosi as his new manager, though Colletti said this week he still wants to speak with others.

11/22/05
The Dodgers lost a managerial candidate on Tuesday when Angels pitching coach Bud Black declined an interview, citing family reasons, reports MLB.com.

11/20/05
Los Angeles Daily News: " Former Tampa Bay manager Lou Piniella will not be a candidate for the Dodgers' managerial vacancy. Piniella, whom the Devil Rays let out of his contract last month, told Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti on Saturday that the timing isn't right for him to return to the dugout."

11/16/05
AP: The Los Angeles Dodgers hired Ned Colletti as their general manager Tuesday to replace the fired Paul DePodesta. Colletti has been an assistant GM with the rival San Francisco Giants since 1997. He beat out Dodgers assistant GM Kim Ng, who was trying to become the first woman in major league history to be hired as a GM.
----The Dodgers hire a front office man with a long background in the business side of baseball with a marketing angle. RoxHead has no idea if he actually has any on the field experience in terms of playing the game or in scouting and player evaluation.
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Orange County Register: "Colletti's first order of business will be hiring a manager. Former Dodgers ace Orel Hershiser has emerged as the frontrunner for that position and has been waiting out the Dodgers' front-office disorder since his contract as Rangers pitching coach expired two weeks ago."

11/14/05
Los Angeles Daily News: " There were strong indications on Sunday night the Dodgers have offered their vacant general manager's position to former Boston GM Theo Epstein and that they had sweetened the deal by offering Epstein a small ownership stake similar to what Billy Beane has in Oakland."
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Los Angeles Times: "The Dodgers are leaning toward hiring Ned Colletti as general manager, sources said Monday, and an announcement is expected before Frank McCourt leaves for owners' meetings in Milwaukee on Wednesday afternoon... Former Boston GM Theo Epstein had preliminary conversations with McCourt last week, but after consulting with friends within baseball apparently came to a mutual decision with the Dodgers that the job wasn't for him."
-----Well, which paper has the better sources?
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Los Angeles Times: "They shopped outfielder Milton Bradley and pitcher Odalis Perez at the GM meetings and talked to nearly every agent for a free agent, expressing interest in third basemen Nomar Garciaparra, Bill Mueller and Joe Randa, and in outfielders Brian Giles, Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui."

11/12/05
Outfielder Johnny Damon is now on the Dodgers radar screen, says the Riverside Press Enterprise.

11/10/05
Theo Epstein has told friends that he has no interest in the Dodgers' GM opening, according to Baseball Weekly, but could return as Red Sox GM, as several of his associates are predicting. The Dodgers intend to hire Orel Hershiser for a key front-office role. If former Rangers GM John Hart declines to join their organization, the Dodgers may bring in White Sox executive Dennis Gilbert to help mentor Hershiser.
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Dodgers draft pick and former Colorado prep star Luke Hochevar is working out at the University of Tennessee. Talks quietly began last week in attempt to get him signed. (Denver Post)

11/08/05
According to CBS.com, the Dodgers' first choice for GM was Pat Gillick, but he turned and sprinted the other way when Frank McCourt approached him. Actually, sources familiar with the talks said that Gillick was polite in telling the Dodgers that he had no interest in them, a few days after which he agreed to become Philadelphia's GM.
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Los Angeles Times: "The lobby was awash in talk about the Dodger openings at general manager and manager (John Hart remains involved, Jim Bowden has not been contacted and declared himself out, no word on whether Frank McCourt contacted Theo Epstein, San Francisco assistant general manager Ned Colletti is a potential candidate, Kim Ng's candidacy is gaining momentum).

11/07/05
The next Dodgers' GM will inherit a terrific farm system, and many of the top prospects will be at Class AAA next season reports TSN.com. Catcher Russell Martin, 22, is farm director Terry Collins' favorite player, and third baseman Andy LaRoche, 22, is a good fielder with intriguing power potential. First baseman James Loney, 21, is a spray hitter who hits for average, and infielder Joel Guzman, who turns 21 this month, could be a huge star if he cuts down on his strikeouts. The Dodgers also are deep in young pitching.

11/06/05
Los Angeles Times: "After several misfires, Frank McCourt finally was able to interview someone in person Saturday but only because the candidate already works at Dodger Stadium. Kim Ng, the highly regarded Dodger assistant GM who earlier held the same position with the New York Yankees, would become Major League Baseball's first female GM if hired."

11/05/05
Los Angeles Times: "A day that began with the Dodgers pleased to have re-signed outfielder Jose Cruz Jr. to a one-year contract ended with them being perplexed by a report that another top candidate for general manager isn't interested. A highly placed Texas Ranger source told the Dallas Morning News that John Hart, a special advisor and the team's former general manager, planned to inform Dodger owner Frank McCourt over the phone Friday night that he would remain with the Rangers."

11/03/05
Los Angeles Times: "Theo Epstein has piqued the Dodgers' interest enough that they probably will wait until he is ready to talk to them next week before deciding on a general manager... The Dodgers want to hire Orel Hershiser - the former star pitcher and current Texas pitching coach - in some front-office capacity."
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Dallas Morning News: "The Dodgers are interested in former Rangers general manager John Hart as a potential candidate for their vacant GM position."
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Frrom MLB.com: The Dodgers don't have a GM and they don't have a manager, but they might be getting closer to hiring the former, which will help them in acquiring the latter.

In addition to Owner Frank McCourt asking for permission to speak with Hart and the Dodgers reportedly also possibly interested in Marlins GM Larry Beinfest, Thursday's Los Angeles Times reported that the Dodgers have enough interest in Theo Epstein that "they probably will wait until he is ready to talk to them next week before deciding on a general manager." Epstein said Wednesday that he had been contacted by a team, and according to Times sources, it's the Dodgers.
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The Times added that Bobby Valentine is the team's top candidate for manager and that Valentine "said he considers the Dodgers his dream job."
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Baseball America.com writes this about a potential impact prospect for 2006:
Andy LaRoche, 3b, Los Angeles doesn't have a better option for the hot corner

11/01/05
Orange County Register: "Jeff Kent was candid in his distaste for the way things went in his first season as a Dodger and said he would consider requesting a trade if he thought more of the same was on the way."

10/30/05
The Los Angeles Dodgers have received permission, reports CBS Sportsline.com, to interview Seattle Mariners adviser Pat Gillick to replace fired general manager Paul DePodesta.
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Fort Worth Star-Telegram: "In a bizarre twist, Dodgers owner Frank McCourt fired general manager Paul DePodesta on Saturday. Orel Hershiser, having already interviewed for the managerial opening, is also expected to be considered for the GM position."

10/29/05
Los Angeles Dodgers executive vice president and general manager Paul DePodesta will reportedly be fired. According to The Los Angeles Times, DePodesta will likely be relieved of his duties as early as this weekend.
----RoxHead says, "Well, duh." Anytime you see a guy in a job that has so much involved from so many different directions and who is clearly in over his head in that occupation, then you know it's only a matter of time before he gets a call to visit the boss and given two checks on the way out.

Let this be a little lesson to you "Moneyball" lovers out there. That system may work for mid to small level teams but it will never work for franchises that have a load of cash to spend. Now it's true that the new Dodger owners are going to try and make a go of it on the cheap, but it won't work in LA. That town will demand a big payroll team, and they should because they draw so well. A Billy Bean philosophy will fail because that system is based on numbers on a piece a paper and not the character, star power and pure ability of the player in question. And those players are the type that you just have to open the wallet for.

There is a good thing that came from all of this DePodesta crap for the Rockie fan, and that is the fact that a good manager in Jim Tracy is now gone from the division.

10/27/05
The Dodgers' managerial search has been whittled from the original six candidates to three finalists including Orel Hershiser, Terry Collins and Alan Trammell, says the Los Angeles Daily News.

10/26/05
Riverside Press Enterprise, " After a day spent assessing the farm system with Dodgers scouts and player development staff, General Manager Paul DePodesta interviewed the sixth and apparently final candidate for the club's managerial position Tuesday night: former Dodgers pitching great Orel Hershiser."

10/23/05
From the Los Angeles Times: "The theory coursing through baseball circles is Chairman Frank McCourt will have final say on the manager, then make a decision on his general manager, perhaps making a change if what he perceives as a more attractive candidate - Brian Cashman, Theo Epstein, Mark Newman, Jim Bowden, Kevin Towers - is still available."

10/19/05
The Dodgers are considering signing Nomar Garciaparra.

10/04/05
The Dodgers and Manager, Jim Tracy, decided to part ways on Monday, Oct 3rd. Tracy probably voiced his opinion that GM, Paul DePodesta, ruined the team and was basically fired for saying so.