MLB Hot Stove

[homerawayfromhome]

Actually forgot about Franklin...I kicked myself when I heard the Tribe traded him, not that he was that great but I didn't get the deal, although I like Joe Smith -- btw, I'd like to see the Tribe extend him at a reasonable price OR trade him before he can walk. He's an Ohio native and has pitched well, might get over paid in FA, but I'm hoping the extend him at least a yr. Maybe something like 2 yrs / $6 M keeps him. Back to Frankie G, I don't see getting him unless he is packaged with one of Walker, Hultzen, Paxton. If getting Gutierrez back is a prerequisite to get one of them than I say make the deal assuming its not an overpay by the Tribe.

Assuming a healthy Gutierrez.. Danny Hultzen would be a very interesting step in the right direction for the Indians and their efforts. FWIW, that would be a 'return' in the choo category.. It's just so costly to make that happen, though. Perhaps the target is set to high in a two for one?. IDK..

That depends on how the Tribe would view Gutierrez at this point, he is healthy now and recently was tearing the cover off of the ball in VWL but has not remained healthy for the last 2 seasons. Lets say the Tribe and Ms got together for a deal. Maybe something like ... ACab and Albers... For... Gutierrez, Paxton, Maurer, Martinez.

[GoTribe028]

Alright, seriously, since he's been an Indian, has Cabrera EVER been linked to the Mariners, let alone this winter? And do people really think he's as valued around the league as Justin Upton?

[GeronimoSon]

Alright, seriously, since he's been an Indian, has Cabrera EVER been linked to the Mariners, let alone this winter? And do people really think he's as valued around the league as Justin Upton?

It's not a comparison w/r to value perceived by the league or other sources. So, the question posed doesn't seem to have an end point or focus. BTW.. who cares what the league's perception is.. What matters is pretty basic 1. Can the player play?.. 2. Does the player improve the club he's going to?.. & 3. Are the same questions in return for the player answered in the affirmative?...

Have the Mariners been linked to Asdrubal Cabrera prior to this off season.. Well... DUH!!. where do you think Asdrubal came from? Now if you mean in a trade.. You might find this to be odd.. but trade suggestions and offers and proposals and all that 'stuff' typically happens during two time periods.. One is on or about the last week or so of the month of July.. the other is around mid/late November culmination in late January.. This is called the "Hot Stove Season". While not every trade proposal is bandied about in the papers, there has been discussions and rumors and whispers etc etc. regarding trades between virtually every major league club and all the others..

[GeronimoSon]

Actually forgot about Franklin...I kicked myself when I heard the Tribe traded him, not that he was that great but I didn't get the deal, although I like Joe Smith -- btw, I'd like to see the Tribe extend him at a reasonable price OR trade him before he can walk. He's an Ohio native and has pitched well, might get over paid in FA, but I'm hoping the extend him at least a yr. Maybe something like 2 yrs / $6 M keeps him. Back to Frankie G, I don't see getting him unless he is packaged with one of Walker, Hultzen, Paxton. If getting Gutierrez back is a prerequisite to get one of them than I say make the deal assuming its not an overpay by the Tribe.

Assuming a healthy Gutierrez.. Danny Hultzen would be a very interesting step in the right direction for the Indians and their efforts. FWIW, that would be a 'return' in the choo category.. It's just so costly to make that happen, though. Perhaps the target is set to high in a two for one?. IDK..

That depends on how the Tribe would view Gutierrez at this point, he is healthy now and recently was tearing the cover off of the ball in VWL but has not remained healthy for the last 2 seasons. Lets say the Tribe and Ms got together for a deal. Maybe something like ... ACab and Albers... For... Gutierrez, Paxton, Maurer, Martinez.

You really like Martinez?. why? I mean.. I know he's a lot like the athlete you see in McCutchen.. and he has the speed of a wide receiver in football.. and is fast running out of minor league options.. I believe he was part of the Doug Fister deal. He'll be in his fifth or sixth year in the minors in 2013.. and he's still only 23 years old.. Oh.. be careful, the Mariners have two Martinez's.. one is Francisco, the other Mario.. both are 3B's..

How does the Tribe view Gutierrez?. Pessimistically, he's an oft injured drain of limited payroll resources that won't be able to play more than 60 games in 2013 thereby making his option a moot point.. or he's a defensive stalwart who can play any one of three OF spots at or above Gold Glove level while smacking LHP'ing with both power and average as well as anyone currently domiciled on the roster... or somewhere in between..

You think Paxton > Hultzen?

You prefer Maurer over Victor Sanchez as a deeper SP prospect?..

[homerawayfromhome]

Alright, seriously, since he's been an Indian, has Cabrera EVER been linked to the Mariners, let alone this winter? And do people really think he's as valued around the league as Justin Upton?

No, I've not heard talks, whispers, etc between the two clubs. Mere speculation what trade talks could bring if they have occurred, or do occur.

Lets use some common sense here, and that's no slight when I say that...the Tribe did acq. ACab from the Ms several yrs back. The two clubs have a history of being trade partners - the Tribe looking pretty in a number of those deals BTW.

The Ms want offensive upgrades at a number of spots, Brendan Ryan hit .194 last yr and would be much better suited as a reserve / utility type w/ exp. at a number of spots. ACab would be an upgrade and is on the mkt for the right price.

Also, teams often talk and chat briefly, particularly when names are out there...Bauer's name was out there and reportedly a number of clubs checked in on him, ultimately before the Tribe landed him.

Right now, my personal guess is nothing between the Tribe and Ms goes down. It's been too quiet but that doesn't stop fans from speculating what could be...

[homerawayfromhome]

Actually forgot about Franklin...I kicked myself when I heard the Tribe traded him, not that he was that great but I didn't get the deal, although I like Joe Smith -- btw, I'd like to see the Tribe extend him at a reasonable price OR trade him before he can walk. He's an Ohio native and has pitched well, might get over paid in FA, but I'm hoping the extend him at least a yr. Maybe something like 2 yrs / $6 M keeps him. Back to Frankie G, I don't see getting him unless he is packaged with one of Walker, Hultzen, Paxton. If getting Gutierrez back is a prerequisite to get one of them than I say make the deal assuming its not an overpay by the Tribe.

Assuming a healthy Gutierrez.. Danny Hultzen would be a very interesting step in the right direction for the Indians and their efforts. FWIW, that would be a 'return' in the choo category.. It's just so costly to make that happen, though. Perhaps the target is set to high in a two for one?. IDK..

That depends on how the Tribe would view Gutierrez at this point, he is healthy now and recently was tearing the cover off of the ball in VWL but has not remained healthy for the last 2 seasons. Lets say the Tribe and Ms got together for a deal. Maybe something like ... ACab and Albers... For... Gutierrez, Paxton, Maurer, Martinez.

You really like Martinez?. why? I mean.. I know he's a lot like the athlete you see in McCutchen.. and he has the speed of a wide receiver in football.. and is fast running out of minor league options.. I believe he was part of the Doug Fister deal. He'll be in his fifth or sixth year in the minors in 2013.. and he's still only 23 years old.. Oh.. be careful, the Mariners have two Martinez's.. one is Francisco, the other Mario.. both are 3B's..

How does the Tribe view Gutierrez?. Pessimistically, he's an oft injured drain of limited payroll resources that won't be able to play more than 60 games in 2013 thereby making his option a moot point.. or he's a defensive stalwart who can play any one of three OF spots at or above Gold Glove level while smacking LHP'ing with both power and average as well as anyone currently domiciled on the roster... or somewhere in between..

You think Paxton > Hultzen?

You prefer Maurer over Victor Sanchez as a deeper SP prospect?..

No I don't prefer Paxton over Hultzen, but I would reasonably expect Paxton and Maurer over Hultzen in a deal. Btw, I do value Paxton probably more than some others. I've seen a lot of him at UK before the drama that ended his college career. He's not on Hultzen's level but not too far behind either, IMHO.

Maurer is a guy I see as a 3 SP in the future maybe a weak 2 but I doubt that. Sanchez could have a higher upside but is further away and ? has some conditioning concerns... 6'0 250+ lbs??? Although, I've heard no one mention it, Id think teams (the Tribe) would be if those numbers are right.

[GeronimoSon]

..No I don't prefer Paxton over Hultzen, but I would reasonably expect Paxton and Maurer over Hultzen in a deal. Btw, I do value Paxton probably more than some others. I've seen a lot of him at UK before the drama that ended his college career. He's not on Hultzen's level but not too far behind either, IMHO.

Maurer is a guy I see as a 3 SP in the future maybe a weak 2 but I doubt that. Sanchez could have a higher upside but is further away and ? has some conditioning concerns... 6'0 250+ lbs??? Although, I've heard no one mention it, Id think teams (the Tribe) would be if those numbers are right....

Well.. I've seen Mariner fans going two or three ways on the subject.. some think Paxton is better.. others believe Hultzen is vastly more polished & is going to be a better MLB pitcher from the start.. There are even some who like Paxton over Taijuan Walker as they rate all three guys.. Personally, to me, Hultzen is the goods.. there is no doubt in my mind about that. He has the stuff, the demeanor and presence on the mound that screams staff ace.. As far as Victor Sanchez goes.. he's bigger than the 250 they're listing him at.. try closer to three bills.. He's just big kid with all his baby fat..

[GeronimoSon]

Btw... the Tony/Hiramboyd/eric_urban tweet regarding Kyle Lohse is all about nonsense.. The chief reason for the nonsense is Hiram thinks Kyle Lohse needs to reestablish his value.. (no.. really.. he does!) by signing a one year contract.. when you read the tweet and expand it..& all.. you have to wonder if these are the same kinds of fans who are making the claim that the latest Temp-Worker to take the Browns head coaching job is the answer!!...

[homerawayfromhome]

Right now I have more faith in the Tribe and Cavs to get things right than the Browns. I've almost lost interest in them altogether...sad. I'll just say they used a 1st rd pk on a QB and still don't have one, DA 2.0.

Back to the Tribe, the Tribe has released Thomas Neal making him a FA. They have also expressed interest in re-signing him per mlbtraderumors.

Lohse, doesn't need to re-establish value, he needs a team to bite on him. He's definitely a loser in the mkt bc of Boras and draft pk comp linked to him.

[GeronimoSon]

Right now I have more faith in the Tribe and Cavs to get things right than the Browns. I've almost lost interest in them altogether...sad. I'll just say they used a 1st rd pk on a QB and still don't have one, DA 2.0.

Back to the Tribe, the Tribe has released Thomas Neal making him a FA. They have also expressed interest in re-signing him per mlbtraderumors.

Lohse, doesn't need to re-establish value, he needs a team to bite on him. He's definitely a loser in the mkt bc of Boras and draft pk comp linked to him.

The Cardinals were wise to make the qualifying offer knowing full well that Lohse would decline it.. A one year offer like that from the Cardinals is probably looking pretty good to Kyle Lohse right about about.. and no one cares when the steak is ready at a vegan dinner..

Also, if you want to talk about the most veiled of whispers.. the following was posted: 12 Jan 2013 @ 10:07:57 am, Heard some kind of Asdrubal Cabrera trade / rumor but didn't catch the team that may be involved? Anyone hear about this? uh huh, where there's smoke there's fire.. but, this isn't even smoke..

[GeronimoSon]

Mid January musings...seems like the 30 day mark before pitchers and catchers has put a lot of people to sleep...

-Did you know that the Mariners finished last in the American League in runs scored, total hits, OBP, OPS, runs scored, slugging percent and total bases? Are Seattle Mariner fans of the belief that 40+ year old Raul Ibanez, olf beyond his years Jason Bay and Kendrys Morales being added to their roster is going to change that?..

-Grady Sizemore had another microfracture knee operation in the Fall. His agent has stated that Grady won't be signing a contract to play for anyone nor would he be working out on anyone else's dime this winter and on into the summer. His agent further stated that once Grady is fully recovered, then and only then will he seek an opportunity to get back onto the baseball diamond. Would you be interested in having Grady return under that set of circumstances?

-The Los Angeles Dodgers are said to have "kicked the tires" or have interest in acquiring Rafael Soriano, but, don't want to pay the double freight, i.e. a first round compensation draft pick as well as the salary he will command. Soriano has already turned down one year and $ 14 MM deal while looking for a multi-year deal from the Yankees. It appears that bridge has been roasted!! Would the Dodgers consider two years of Chris Perez at around the cost of one year of Rafael Soriano a bargain they can't pass up. Wouldn't they be inclined to consider CP given their need to win NOW??? Any thoughts on what you would like to see as the return in a simple trade? or.. a more complex deal that involves multiple players?

[Prosecutor]

If Sizemore has any future in baseball (as a player) it's probably as a DH. Would the Indians invite him to spring training as a non-roster invitee in 2014 if he checks out medically? Why not? If his knees are stable he can swing the bat and he'll only be 31 years old.

I'm fine with trading Chris Perez to anybody if we can get a good prospect in return.

[homerawayfromhome]

I'd think something could still get done between the Tribe and Dodgers. Maybe a simple deal like Perez for Capuano and Gordon and a prospect or something more complex involving a multiplayer deal.

Heyman suggests the Jays are looking for back of the bullpen help. Could we see the Tribe and Jays meet up for another deal? It seems possible, maybe Bonaficio, Happ and a prospect gets a deal done.

[homerawayfromhome]

It seems the Tribe is letting the mkt settle, some what before they move again. I will say that they will make another move. The roster is not set yet, the are still a. Few holes to fill and it seems like the Tribe is waiting to make another splash.

Lets think this through for a minute. The Tribe knows that they could simply pluck a few guys off the FA list to fill some holes at a reasonable price but has yet to go after those last few spots. Why? First, the Tribe is allowing the mkt to come down on a few of these guys, but could there be more to it? It just seems awful quiet for a team that has a little cash to spend on a DH, LHRP and possibly another SP to sit seemingly idle. Secondly, and perhaps most telling, the Tribe has been linked to guys like Kyle Lohse and Shaun Marcum, who remain unsigned. Third, the Tribe has some payroll flexibility and potentiality to move a few pieces to alleviate the $$$ crunch. Fourth, the Tribe is seeking to set a new presidence and there is no greater way than over hauling the roster with talent and recognizable names to the avg fan to boot. Finally, unlike previous yrs the Tribe seems more willing / eager to strike to fill the remaining holes throughout the roster.

[homerawayfromhome]

HBT reports... Rafael Soriano got 2 yrs / $28 M from the Nationals.

[GeronimoSon]

HBT reports... Rafael Soriano got 2 yrs / $28 M from the Nationals.

Nats taking a page from the NYY's from 2012. In the event Storen or Clippard go down with injury or performance, up steps the next guy who can get the job done at the back of the pen. If both are doing the job, then there's depth & the games are shortened from nine innings to seven.. Good plan...

[GeronimoSon]

It seems the Tribe is letting the mkt settle, some what before they move again. I will say that they will make another move. The roster is not set yet, the are still a. Few holes to fill and it seems like the Tribe is waiting to make another splash.

Lets think this through for a minute. The Tribe knows that they could simply pluck a few guys off the FA list to fill some holes at a reasonable price but has yet to go after those last few spots. Why? First, the Tribe is allowing the mkt to come down on a few of these guys, but could there be more to it? It just seems awful quiet for a team that has a little cash to spend on a DH, LHRP and possibly another SP to sit seemingly idle. Secondly, and perhaps most telling, the Tribe has been linked to guys like Kyle Lohse and Shaun Marcum, who remain unsigned. Third, the Tribe has some payroll flexibility and potentiality to move a few pieces to alleviate the $$$ crunch. Fourth, the Tribe is seeking to set a new presidence and there is no greater way than over hauling the roster with talent and recognizable names to the avg fan to boot. Finally, unlike previous yrs the Tribe seems more willing / eager to strike to fill the remaining holes throughout the roster.

The market has gone up a weee bit, if anything.. Kyle Lohse is alleged to be looking for a four year deal. Last year and the prior few years.. he'd be in line for, at most, a three year deal. The length of his contract will be the issue for him.. That is.. no one wants to give a 34 year old pitcher a four year deal.. two plus is realistic. not four. Shaun Marcum has several suitors.. I D K of anyone who has said he is ready or will be ready to pitch come March/April. Perhaps that is why he remains unsigned.. I would LIKE to agree with you that the Indians will make another move, but, that's only because I want them to make another move. The "two to tango" bit still applies.. & I still think the Mariners match up the best.. easily better than the Dodgers and only slightly better than the St Louis Cardinals...

[GeronimoSon]

So.. it's the SIZZLE that is being put into the steak that the Indians are after?.. woot!.

or unlike Theo's complaint about the Boston Front Office:

...“Werner talked about slumping television ratings and whined, ‘We need to start winning in more exciting fashion,’” the excerpt read … “They told us we didn’t have any marketable players, that we needed some sizzle. We need some sexy guys,” Epstein said. “Talk about the tail wagging the dog. This is like an absurdist comedy. We’d become too big. It was the farthest thing from what we set out to be.”

[Rocky55]

Anyone have any idea what Marcum is asking for in years/money?

[GeronimoSon]

After scouring some of the usual sources, there doesn't appear to be a clear picture or statement of what Shaun Marcum is looking for. The consensus is for at least one guaranteed year, possibly three and his previous salary prior to his elbow issues being the top end of the salary range. FWIW, he's a soft tosser who's sore elbow makes him a HUGE risk.. the return isn't going to be all that great as he's primarily a fly ball pitcher. He's probably best suited to a park like Safeco or Petco.. imho...

Here are some quotes on his salary:

By Matt Conner I SBNation... Earlier this offseason, speculation was Marcum wanted a two- or three-year deal. I wonder if he'd consider a one-year deal with a club option (or something like that) now to try to show he's over any elbow concerns...

By Richard Durrett | ESPNDallas.com...Marcum is likely looking for a two- or three-year deal and made $7.725 million last year....

[homerawayfromhome]

Marcum finished last season topping out at 87mph his last several starts. It could be bc of the significant time he missed while recouping from the shldr / elbow injuries last season. Although Marcum pitched fairly during the month of September, he wasn't overwhelming to say the least. I think it's worth noting the Brewers haven't been linked to him, seemingly, with low or no interest.

If Marcum is healthy, he could be a solid add to the middle of the rotation. Personally, I think he gets a one yr deal with an option similar to 2 yrs / $15 M that McCarthy, Blanton and Myers have gotten.

[homerawayfromhome]

It seems the Tribe is letting the mkt settle, some what before they move again. I will say that they will make another move. The roster is not set yet, the are still a. Few holes to fill and it seems like the Tribe is waiting to make another splash.

Lets think this through for a minute. The Tribe knows that they could simply pluck a few guys off the FA list to fill some holes at a reasonable price but has yet to go after those last few spots. Why? First, the Tribe is allowing the mkt to come down on a few of these guys, but could there be more to it? It just seems awful quiet for a team that has a little cash to spend on a DH, LHRP and possibly another SP to sit seemingly idle. Secondly, and perhaps most telling, the Tribe has been linked to guys like Kyle Lohse and Shaun Marcum, who remain unsigned. Third, the Tribe has some payroll flexibility and potentiality to move a few pieces to alleviate the $$$ crunch. Fourth, the Tribe is seeking to set a new presidence and there is no greater way than over hauling the roster with talent and recognizable names to the avg fan to boot. Finally, unlike previous yrs the Tribe seems more willing / eager to strike to fill the remaining holes throughout the roster.

The market has gone up a weee bit, if anything.. Kyle Lohse is alleged to be looking for a four year deal. Last year and the prior few years.. he'd be in line for, at most, a three year deal. The length of his contract will be the issue for him.. That is.. no one wants to give a 34 year old pitcher a four year deal.. two plus is realistic. not four. Shaun Marcum has several suitors.. I D K of anyone who has said he is ready or will be ready to pitch come March/April. Perhaps that is why he remains unsigned.. I would LIKE to agree with you that the Indians will make another move, but, that's only because I want them to make another move. The "two to tango" bit still applies.. & I still think the Mariners match up the best.. easily better than the Dodgers and only slightly better than the St Louis Cardinals...

I'd say Lohse gets something similar to Soriano, 2 yrs $28 M w/ a vesting option. I can't see any team doing 4 yrs unless its a vesting option.

As for Chris Perez, the Soriano deal should make Perez a bit more valuable and reasonable for another team looking for a back if the bullpen arm such as the Dodgers and Jays.

[homerawayfromhome]

Some interesting numbers coming out on Soriano as he "only" gets $7 per yr for the next 2 yrs and a 3rd yr vesting option of $14 M after 120 games finished w/ $14 M deferred until 2018-25. Soriano gets his price but has to wait several yrs before its paid out.

Could we see a club jump in on Lohse and Bourn in similar fashion? Id think so, with new TV money coming down soon team will have a bit more cash to play with including the Tribe.

[GeronimoSon]

Some interesting numbers coming out on Soriano as he "only" gets $7 per yr for the next 2 yrs and a 3rd yr vesting option of $14 M after 120 games finished w/ $14 M deferred until 2018-25. Soriano gets his price but has to wait several yrs before its paid out.

Could we see a club jump in on Lohse and Bourn in similar fashion? Id think so, with new TV money coming down soon team will have a bit more cash to play with including the Tribe.

The jumping should begin in earnest as this and next week wear on.. The teams like to finish up all the Hot Stove stuff prior to the Arbitration hearings.. With the WBC this year, earlier than usual reporting dates and added games. Nice to see MLB Network will be televising four games each week.. The ESPN Sunday Night lineup has ZERO Indians games.. The Rangers get to be seen three times.. not a lot of repeat performers though..

[homerawayfromhome]

Yesterday's signing of Rafael Soriano by the Nationals seems to help the trade value of Chris Perez for the Tribe. Perez should net something between $7-8 M in arb, projected at $7.2 M on mlbtraderumors.com, which is generally pretty accurate on arb estimates.

Looking at the Dodgers as a possible trade partners Chris Capuano - LHSP and Dee Gordon - SS both pop out as potential pieces the Tribe would have interest in considering both teams have reportedly discussed these guys. The Tribe could look for a prospect driven deal IF the teams get together. There was rumors the Dodgers looked into Perez and it seems there has been common interests in recent weeks, and yesterday's signing of Soriano by the Nats could put the two teams back in contact.

Here's a few looks of what I think the Tribe could net in a deal with the Dodgers...

Dodgers get...
Chris Perez

Indians get...
Chris Capuano - LHSP 1 yr of control, mutual option 2nd yr
Dee Gordon - SS / OF?
Alex Santana - 3b 19 yo A-ball talent

OR... a more prospect driven deal...

Dodgers get...
Chris Perez

Indians get...
Dee Gordon - SS / OF?
Chris Reed - LHSP
Matt Magill - RHSP

[GeronimoSon]

Here's a few looks of what I think the Tribe could net in a deal with the Dodgers...

Dodgers get...
Chris Perez

Indians get...
Chris Capuano - LHSP 1 yr of control, mutual option 2nd yr
Dee Gordon - SS / OF?
Alex Santana - 3b 19 yo A-ball talent

OR... a more prospect driven deal...

Dodgers get...
Chris Perez

Indians get...
Dee Gordon - SS / OF?
Chris Reed - LHSP
Matt Magill - RHSP

With less than a month before spring training begins, it appears that the Dodgers are in a holding pattern on their surplus of veteran starters. The two primary candidates for trade, Aaron Harang and Chris Capuano, may be retained until such time as the Dodgers can safely assume that both Chad Billingsley (elbow ligament tear) and Ted Lilly (shoulder surgery) are fully healthy and good to go.. At least that is my best guess at this time..

So deal # 1: Wait until spring training is well underway?

Deal # 2 has Dee Gordon crossing over from the first deal, Alex Santana being dropped, with the two SP candidates being added. By conspicuous omission, Zach Lee hasn't been named..While there are conflicting evaluations of his talent, he is still considered the Dodgers fourth best prospect, down from first. Passing him has been Yasiel Puig, who is the goods & will be better than Oscar Taveras, Corey Seager, the younger more talented Seager Brother, and Joc Pederson, a solid to spectacular OF who's been moved up the dodgers hierarchy quickly and is on the verge of a ML gig at the age of 20. The two SP candidates give you the feeling they're more RP's at the ML level than SP's. Matt MaGill might have a chance to stay as an SP, but, no where near a MOR/FOR type. I guess what I'm saying about the speculative deal with the Dodgers: if it's Z Lee & Pederson for CPerez.. I'm interested. If it's CPerez for Yasiel straight up..I'm interested (the Dodgers would no doubt want something else included here). If Alex Santana is a throw in to both speculated trades, okay, but not a deal breaker and I'm only interested in Dee Gordon if Asdrubal has already been traded. This is the kind of deal(s) that should be made..

[GeronimoSon]

I'd think something could still get done between the Tribe and Dodgers. Maybe a simple deal like Perez for Capuano and Gordon and a prospect or something more complex involving a multiplayer deal.

Heyman suggests the Jays are looking for back of the bullpen help. Could we see the Tribe and Jays meet up for another deal? It seems possible, maybe Bonaficio, Happ and a prospect gets a deal done.

While the Dodgers speculation seems remote or at least delayed, the Jays need for back of the pen help seems much more plausible, imho. The best prospect in the Jays systems has been traded, Noah Syndergaard (and yes, I liked him better than D'Arnaud). He has FOR stuff and presence. The next best prospect left with the Jays is, no doubt, Aaron Sanchez.. Even though he's still at least a year or two away, I'd be willing to do a one for one with him. If not him, then one for one for Anthony Gose.. It's odd, the Blue Jays have Gose listed on their forty man roster, but no place else.. Not on their depth chart.. not in their prospect rankings..etc.. As a last or final resort for a Jays/Indians deal: how about a Matt Smoral/Sean Nolin for CPerez trade?

[homerawayfromhome]

First, agreed I like Noah Syndergaard myself. Aaron Sanchez is easily the Jays top prospect right now, they are obviously pushing for now which would lead me to believe they may deal a young expendable arm like Drabek or Hutchinson in the right deal. Both are returning from injury so they are obvious wild cards of sorts. The Jays could use some infield depth but have flexibility to play Bonaficio at a number of spots, but if they are trying to work within some sort of budget as seemingly suggested in some places Bonaficio could be moved. The Jays have gutted the farm but still have some intestine talent they could move if willing.

Second, a deal with the Dodgers could net some interesting pieces depending which way the trade would lean as far as prospects vs. players coming back. The Tribe could move Perez in order to "lighten the load" $$$ to make another corresponding move such as maybe a deal for Kyle Lohse. In which case, Id think the Tribe would look more for close AA / AAA prospects. Chris Reed is a power LHSP who could become a number 2, I think is a 3 or a shutdown closer (at worst) as he was in college. Matt Magill is a guy I see as a 4/5th SP. Dee Gordon toolsy SS with big time speed, could play CF but offers no pop whatsoever. Gordon could be a replacement for ACab at a later point and would add further surplus to the infield plus playmaking ability on the base paths. Alex Santana is young (19) toolsy 3b prospect with some good upside. I'd want all four for Perez (and maybe Phelps / Diaz) or some combo with Capuano in a trade, if the Tribe didn't land another SP prior to this kind of deal

Here's how I'd think a few scenario's could play out...

Jays get... (2 of...)
Chris Perez
Phelps / Diaz

Indians get.. (4 of...)
Bonaficio / Gose
Happ / Hutchison / Drabek
Nolin / AJ Jimenez

[GeronimoSon]

Another possible destination for CPerez could be with the Mets... The Mets have Frank Francisco slated to be their closer, however, he's coming off elbow surgery (not TJ) and is questionable as the opening day closer. The Mets have no one behind him.. at all. They have a guy who throws 100 mph, but has no idea where the ball is going and a bunch of kids that wouldn't be closing games for Akron of the AA Eastern League..

While this is really "pie in the sky" thinking, the Mets would be / should be considering a big mouthed closer who gets the job done and isn't afraid to speak his mind in public.. He'd be perfect for NYC !!

How about:

Mets get: Chris Perez, Cord Phelps/Juan Diaz and Tyler Naquin (as a PTBNL)
Indians get: Noah Syndergaard and Daniel Murphy

[dazindiansfanuk]

Mariners acquiring Morse in a 3-team deal with A's, Nats according to MLBTR

[homerawayfromhome]

Three team deal involving Michael Morse...

Nats get...
AJ Cole
Blake Treihen
PTBNL

A's get...
John Jaso

M's get...
Morse

George Kottaras - C from the A's gets DFA. Soriano's $7M slots into what Morse would have made as a National.

[GeronimoSon]

Three team deal involving Michael Morse...

Nats get...
AJ Cole
Blake Treihen
PTBNL

A's get...
John Jaso

M's get...
Morse

George Kottaras - C from the A's gets DFA. Soriano's $7M slots into what Morse would have made as a National.

The initial reaction of Mariner fans has been pretty surprising.. "...the loss of a platoon catcher for a MOTO hitter is about the worst thing that could happen..." Maybe, maybe not.. IMHO, my first glance at this deal says.. good deal for the Nationals.. Okay deal for the Mariners.. has to suck being the A's.. The reason I believe the Nats did well with this deal is they effectively traded Michael Morse (a spare part for them) for one of the best closers in the game (Soriano), a young FOR/MOR SP candidate (AJ Cole) & Blake Treihen as well as a Lottery Ticket (PTBNL). All this while spending a whopping $ 1 MM. Not a bad day for Rizzz...

The loss of Jaso from the Mariners...thins their catching ranks to the bare minimum, perhaps even less than that. The M's do have a young Catcher they are grooming for the spot, Zunino, but he's at least a late season call up or injury call up away. He's not the kind of back stop that Eric Wedge likes.. Lou Marson is.. A deal between the Mariners and Cleveland could still be coming..especially since the Mariners traded away NONE of their top prospects in either the Morales or Morse deals...

[homerawayfromhome]

Three team deal involving Michael Morse...

Nats get...
AJ Cole
Blake Treihen
PTBNL

A's get...
John Jaso

M's get...
Morse

George Kottaras - C from the A's gets DFA. Soriano's $7M slots into what Morse would have made as a National.

The initial reaction of Mariner fans has been pretty surprising.. "...the loss of a platoon catcher for a MOTO hitter is about the worst thing that could happen..." Maybe, maybe not.. IMHO, my first glance at this deal says.. good deal for the Nationals.. Okay deal for the Mariners.. has to suck being the A's.. The reason I believe the Nats did well with this deal is they effectively traded Michael Morse (a spare part for them) for one of the best closers in the game (Soriano), a young FOR/MOR SP candidate (AJ Cole) & Blake Treihen as well as a Lottery Ticket (PTBNL). All this while spending a whopping $ 1 MM. Not a bad day for Rizzz...

The loss of Jaso from the Mariners...thins their catching ranks to the bare minimum, perhaps even less than that. The M's do have a young Catcher they are grooming for the spot, Zunino, but he's at least a late season call up or injury call up away. He's not the kind of back stop that Eric Wedge likes.. Lou Marson is.. A deal between the Mariners and Cleveland could still be coming..especially since the Mariners traded away NONE of their top prospects in either the Morales or Morse deals...

The Nats come out looking good in this, I'm not sure about the move for the A's - not a fan, if I were a fan of the A's and the Mariners get a rental player and give up nothing of significance.

There are some serviceable FA catchers on the mkt, nothing great but maybe the M's look to Miguel Olivo once again. I'm not convinced the moves are done for the Mariners now with Kendrys Morales, Raul Ibanez and Michael Morse on short term contracts and Justin Smoak and maybe Mike Carp as trade chips.

Interesting to see Soriano sign a deal with so much money put off for a number of yrs. It kind of makes some of the 'crazy, pointless, useless, worthless oh and pure fantasy ideas' seem a lot more possible. Just saying, in this mkt and in FA with some creativity and aggression anything can and should be possible...

[dazindiansfanuk]

Adam the Bull ‏@AdamtheBullFAN
Sports Hochi reports that Daisuke Matsuzaka is deciding on minor league offers from the Indians, Marlins and Mets.

I have no idea who this "Adam the Bull" is, or for that matter "Sports Hochi", but a rumor is a rumor.

[homerawayfromhome]

Tony also mentioned the Daisuke Matsuzaka rumor on twitter. I wouldn't mind it at all myself particularly if there is a minor league deal. As Tony mentioned he could go back to Japan as well.

[GeronimoSon]

Mark Polishuk at MLB Trade Rumors had this to say about the Mets:

The Mets haven't given up on the possibility of offering Brian Wilson a Major League contract, reports Newsday's Marc Carig (Twitter link). We heard earlier today that the Mets were unimpressed when they watched Wilson throw over the weekend. www.mlbtraderumors.com/#KKUDhAQvaI4u780k.99

Brian Wilson may not get signed until mid season or until he proves he can light up a radar gun into the low/mid 90's.

Dice-K <=== pass

[GeronimoSon]

The Nats come out looking good in this, I'm not sure about the move for the A's - not a fan, if I were a fan of the A's and the Mariners get a rental player and give up nothing of significance.

There are some serviceable FA catchers on the mkt, nothing great but maybe the M's look to Miguel Olivo once again. I'm not convinced the moves are done for the Mariners now with Kendrys Morales, Raul Ibanez and Michael Morse on short term contracts and Justin Smoak and maybe Mike Carp as trade chips.

Interesting to see Soriano sign a deal with so much money put off for a number of yrs. It kind of makes some of the 'crazy, pointless, useless, worthless oh and pure fantasy ideas' seem a lot more possible. Just saying, in this mkt and in FA with some creativity and aggression anything can and should be possible...

What will happen during the next 24 to 72 hours is all the parties to the trade will need to go through their physicals. So, I wouldn't expect much to happen between now and then. The more you read the articles from the PacNW, the more you wonder what kind of expectations the people who post and discuss their "Mariners" have. The USS Mariner website, one of the better blogs that covers all things Mariners, starts off the news with an article entitled " The Mariners Do Stupid Thing" HUH !??? The same blog has a follow up article, not more than a couple hours later entitled: "The Fundamental Flaw". Neither article portrays the acquisition of Michael Morse as improving the Mariners ability to score more runs by the acquisition of a MOTO Bat..

BTW.. with both articles everything from not liking the deal.. to WAR valuations.. to Defensive matrices.. to contract lengths.. etc.. etc.. are all couched as if Mariners GM Jack Z just traded away Rocky Colavito for Harvey Kuen, part II.

These are the kinds of people that would complain to the hangman that the rope they were being hung with was dirty....

[GoTribe028]

Adam the Bull ‏@AdamtheBullFAN
Sports Hochi reports that Daisuke Matsuzaka is deciding on minor league offers from the Indians, Marlins and Mets.

I have no idea who this "Adam the Bull" is, or for that matter "Sports Hochi", but a rumor is a rumor.

Adam the Bull is on "Bull and the Fox" on 92.3 FM in Cleveland along with Dustin Fox who was one of the people brought in during the Nick Swisher courting. He's just a radio personality but he was the first local guy to tweet out that the Browns had been sold last summer before the story broke into the mainstream news.

[GoTribe028]

As for Dice-K....if its a minor league deal....eh, whatever I suppose. Anything more just say no.

[homerawayfromhome]

If any fans should complain it should be the A's fans...giving up a potential FOR in AJ Cole and two other prospects for a platoon type player...really?

George Kottaras seems like he could offer a team a little pop 9hrs last yr and minimal positional flexibility C / 1b / DH. He's controllable for several yrs still and will make $1 M this yr. I'm curious if the Tribe will place a claim on him, I'd give it a thought...maybe Cord Phelps or Juan Diaz for him and then trade off Marson, maybe the M's want another C.

Personally, Id like to see the Tribe make a move for Justin Smoak, I think he'd be a better hitter away from Seattle. Could be a nice buy low option. Maybe Lou Marson and Matt Albers for Smoak, but I'd expect they'd want a little more.

[GeronimoSon]

If any fans should complain it should be the A's fans...giving up a potential FOR in AJ Cole and two other prospects for a platoon type player...really?

George Kottaras seems like he could offer a team a little pop 9hrs last yr and minimal positional flexibility C / 1b / DH. He's controllable for several yrs still and will make $1 M this yr. I'm curious if the Tribe will place a claim on him, I'd give it a thought...maybe Cord Phelps or Juan Diaz for him and then trade off Marson, maybe the M's want another C.

Personally, Id like to see the Tribe make a move for Justin Smoak, I think he'd be a better hitter away from Seattle. Could be a nice buy low option. Maybe Lou Marson and Matt Albers for Smoak, but I'd expect they'd want a little more.

The Mariners aren't without needs & have a couple of problems with their line up as they approach Spring Training.. that is a certainty.. To start with, the Mariners have one catcher on their 40 man roster. Just one & he's not too good with the leather Wedgie is gonna need to "coach him up" a LOT!! Contrary to his defense, Montero has a very good bat and has killed lefties in limited chances. The Mariners have a kid in the minors, Mike Zunino that could surpass expectations and become the starting catcher out of spring training, but, that seems like an awfully long stretch. The catching situation is their most pressing problem. Their next most pressing issue is the glut of outfielders and first baseman/DH's on the roster, 8 and 4, respectively. The M's could also use a veteran SP to balance their starting staff. The M's pen is fine, well stocked with power arms and strike throwers.

So, the Mariners need to add at least on catcher who is a defensive stalwart, preferably someone who can hit RHPs, get rid of at least two & possibly three outfielders.. and finally, add an ML MOR Starting pitcher / innings eater. The Mariners have trade none of their prospects, so, the cupboard is still well stocked..

[homerawayfromhome]

If any fans should complain it should be the A's fans...giving up a potential FOR in AJ Cole and two other prospects for a platoon type player...really?

George Kottaras seems like he could offer a team a little pop 9hrs last yr and minimal positional flexibility C / 1b / DH. He's controllable for several yrs still and will make $1 M this yr. I'm curious if the Tribe will place a claim on him, I'd give it a thought...maybe Cord Phelps or Juan Diaz for him and then trade off Marson, maybe the M's want another C.

Personally, Id like to see the Tribe make a move for Justin Smoak, I think he'd be a better hitter away from Seattle. Could be a nice buy low option. Maybe Lou Marson and Matt Albers for Smoak, but I'd expect they'd want a little more.

The Mariners aren't without needs & have a couple of problems with their line up as they approach Spring Training.. that is a certainty.. To start with, the Mariners have one catcher on their 40 man roster. Just one & he's not too good with the leather Wedgie is gonna need to "coach him up" a LOT!! Contrary to his defense, Montero has a very good bat and has killed lefties in limited chances. The Mariners have a kid in the minors, Mike Zunino that could surpass expectations and become the starting catcher out of spring training, but, that seems like an awfully long stretch. The catching situation is their most pressing problem. Their next most pressing issue is the glut of outfielders and first baseman/DH's on the roster, 8 and 4, respectively. The M's could also use a veteran SP to balance their starting staff. The M's pen is fine, well stocked with power arms and strike throwers.

So, the Mariners need to add at least on catcher who is a defensive stalwart, preferably someone who can hit RHPs, get rid of at least two & possibly three outfielders.. and finally, add an ML MOR Starting pitcher / innings eater. The Mariners have trade none of their prospects, so, the cupboard is still well stocked..

Maybe the Tribe and M's hookup for a larger deal, something like...

M's get...
ACab
Marson

Indians...
Justin Smoak
James Paxton
Carter Capps / Charlie Furbush
Casper Wells

[GoTribe028]

From today on the Twitter

@JonHeymanCBS: #rangers, #indians also have some interest in ryan theriot. #phillies also, & #SFGiants

@jonmorosi: #Indians have some interest in Ryan Raburn, source says. If he signs, minimum of 3 HR vs Tigers this year. #Inge-esque

[homerawayfromhome]

Any word if these guys are seeking big league deals?

I'd hope Raburn would accept a minor league deal. As for Theriot he could be a useful Jamey Carroll / Nick Punto type.

[GoTribe028]

I would think Raburn won't get anything but a minor league deal with an invite, which I'll be fine with most of those deals.

Theriot apparently as a handful of teams interested, so he'll likely get a 1 year deal.

[GeronimoSon]

From today on the Twitter

@JonHeymanCBS: #rangers, #indians also have some interest in ryan theriot. #phillies also, & #SFGiants

@jonmorosi: #Indians have some interest in Ryan Raburn, source says. If he signs, minimum of 3 HR vs Tigers this year. #Inge-esque

The-Riot and Rayburn.. sort of like the next Mike Aviles.. why would the Indians have an interest in another Aviles?. Maybe Homer is onto something with the M's speculation..but, maybe not including Marson (who can't hit RHP's) and maybe a capable SP with some upside going to the Mariners or:

M's get...
Asdrubal Cabrera
& one or both of David Huff/Corey Kluber

Indians get...
One of Danny Hultzen/James Paxton
Justin Smoak
Franklin Gutierrez

This balances out the cost to both sides.. The trade VASTLY improves the Mariners offense... and gives the Indians a projected # 2/# 3 LHSP, a 1B who's pretty much failed, but could be rejuvenated (however unlikely) with a change of scenery and old friend Franklin Gutierrez coming back after two miserable un-healthy years in the PacNW.

I like it..

[homerawayfromhome]

Getting Ryan Theriot would be a solid add IMO, maybe push some of the other younger guys down to triple A for some seasoning.

Obviously, it would provide the Tribe flexibility to move ACab or even Aviles at a later point. I'm not suggesting they're trying to add Theriot to move one or the oth but it would provide coverage at a later point if the Tribe sought to make a deal. Who knows maybe all this Tribe and Cards talk that went on for a cpl months ends in some Aviles to the Cards trade.

[BrianM]

Yeah I'm starting to think Gson may really be onto something.

With the Loss of Jaso, and the Indians interest in Theriot, we may start to hear some more ACab rumors. Gson also made a valid point that Seattle has yet to deal one of their big 3 pitching prospects. They have so much pitching depth that it would be foolish not to part with some of it if they really want to compete now.

Marson really is not that expendable to us considering we don't necessarily have a replacement for him (Im not sure about Gomes), but I don't know how much value he holds in a trade. I would expect Marson/ACab to bring back something along the lines of this...

One of Paxton/Walker
One of Maurer/Prior/Capps
One high upside low-A prospect

If we were able to land Theriot, I would be all in for a trade like this. However, BA just came out with its Cardinals prospect list, and it is hard to not wanna try putting together something together with them. I guess you can't ask for 2 better teams to match up with than the Cards and M's.

[homerawayfromhome]

Yeah I'm starting to think Gson may really be onto something.

With the Loss of Jaso, and the Indians interest in Theriot, we may start to hear some more ACab rumors. Gson also made a valid point that Seattle has yet to deal one of their big 3 pitching prospects. They have so much pitching depth that it would be foolish not to part with some of it if they really want to compete now.

Marson really is not that expendable to us considering we don't necessarily have a replacement for him (Im not sure about Gomes), but I don't know how much value he holds in a trade. I would expect Marson/ACab to bring back something along the lines of this...

One of Paxton/Walker
One of Maurer/Prior/Capps
One high upside low-A prospect

If we were able to land Theriot, I would be all in for a trade like this. However, BA just came out with its Cardinals prospect list, and it is hard to not wanna try putting together something together with them. I guess you can't ask for 2 better teams to match up with than the Cards and M's.

Where's there's smoke...

I think the M's and Cards are top 5 farm systems.

All speculation of course, but there could be something bigger brewing....maybe the M's want a SP (Masterson), just saying, they may be looking to contend now with the recent short term adds to their big club and the need for another SP. Could the Tribe be involved in some sort of mega deal here? I doubt it, but it seems like something is going on...Could be nothing at all, maybe the Tribe just likes Theriot as bench depth, sort of to extend the lineup / depth options.

[timdav]

The Indians have more than enough utility players, it would seem. So, their interest in another veteran utility player does indicate other discussions very well might be in progress...makes total sense.

Why do they need more unless they have other plans? I agree it would seem the Indians might be in the mix for a big trade.
Masterson & A-Cab for ?????. You guys keep up with prospects of other teams (I don't too much).

But, why not make another huge trade? Although I love the changes the Tribe has made for far this off-season, it's not like the Indians are now set to win the World Series in 2013 or 2014. So, why not maximize a couple more key pieces for stronger current/and or Bauer-like starting pitching?

Who knows what or if anything will happen...but, I love this!