News and Notes: Rays Eye Izturis

The Tampa Bay Ray are looking to upgrade defensively, and are looking towards former Gold Glove winner Cesar Izturis. Izturis batted .258 with 0 HR and 16 RBI in 110 games with the Cubs and Pirates, and is not drawing much interest from around the league besides the Rays. I think he would be a good fit for Tampa Bay. It would give them a veteran shortstop with the potential to hit for a solid average, who has a solid glove. It will probably be a one year deal worth between 4-6 million dollars.


Jason Bay to Indians makes sense: The Indians are trying very hard to land outfielder Jason Bay and it seems like a deal with get done because of Mark Shapiro's and Neal Huntington's solid relationship. I'm sure Huntington wants prospects, and because of his familiarity with the Indians farm system, he probably knows the best players the Indians are willing to give up.

Bobby Kielty playing it out: Red Sox backup outfielder Bobby Kielty has become a fan favorite in Boston after his homerun in Game 4 of the World Series, but will let Coco Crisp determine his future with the Red Sox: "With Coco not there, it is a very good situation for me in terms of playing time. ... But with Coco there, it's not an ideal situation for me." Other than the Red Sox, the Braves and Marlins are interested in the outfielder.

Astros Now On Plan B: The Astros have contacted more relievers looking to fill their bullpen. They seem most interested in Troy Percival, but have also talked with Jeremy Affeldt, Doug Brocail, and David Riske.

Mike Hampton struggling to get back: The Braves revealed today that Mike Hampton injured his hamstring in his debut in the Winter League. Hampton has not pitched since 2005, and I'm sure the Braves hope he can return healthy to be in the rotation. If I were the Braves, I would look at it like Hampton will not be back and go out and get a starter. You have Jurrjens, and I think a solid pickup would be someone like Eric Milton or Jon Lieber. The Braves love looking in-house before testing the market so expect GM Frank Wren to talk with his advisor's before making an offer.