Interview with J.R. Towles

Back in October, I called a representative of Astros catcher J.R. Towles to see if he would be up for doing an interview. At the time, he was busy in Fall Ball, but when he was called back by the Astros, it was just a matter of time before we got something done. Towles is currently in line to be the Astros starting catcher next season. He played very well to end the season for the Astros, including an 8 RBI game, and he has made people feel pretty good about the future behind the plate for the Astros. I want to thank him again for doing this interview for me, I really appreciate it. I also want to think his representative, Wes Towles, for doing for me as well.

ELI: You were drafted by the Athletics first, but chose not to sign. Why was that?

J.R.: Well the first time they drafted me it was just to have my rights, we didn't talk. The second time, we negotiated, but I wanted to get bigger and stronger, so I went to junior college.

ELI: So when the Astros came along were you ready to sign?

J.R.: Oh yeah, I was ready to go play pro ball, especially for my hometown team.

ELI: Was it hard making the adjustment from aluminum to wooden?

J.R.: It was definitely different. With aluminum bats, there is more room for error. But, you know, I made adjustments, it was good.

ELI: Following the 2004 season, what did you do to prepare for 2005 and beyond?

J.R.: I really wanted to get bigger, and also be able to withstand a full season. Looking back on it though, I think I did a little too much. I think I started to prepare too soon.

ELI: Was it hard to get comfortable playing at several different levels in 2006?

J.R.: The biggest thing was that I didn't have any clothes. They told me when I was called up to Double-A that I would be up for two weeks. I basically had to live out of a suitcase. On the field though you had to figure out the pitching staffs, which didn't take long, but it was just something to adjust to.

ELI: As a catcher, do you like to call the games or do usually let the pitcher call it?

J.R.: It depends on the pitcher. I'll make a suggestion on what I think is good in the situation, but he can always shake it off. If there is a runner on first, maybe I'll call for a sinker to get a ground ball.

ELI: Do pitchers change up their signs or are they pretty much the same throughout?

J.R.: Most pitchers just use the same signs, but if there is a runner on second looking in he might change them up.

ELI: What was it like playing in the Futures Game last season?

J.R.: Oh, it was great. To play at that level in front of that many fans was great. Not only that, but I was there representing the Astros.

ELI: In 2007, you played at just about every level, can you tell me a little about the experience?

J.R.: Yeah, I was very fortunate. The Astros are known to bring their players up level by level. So when I was at Double-A, I was not expecting a September call up. But, rumors were spreading that I might get a September call up so when I got to Triple-A, I told myself that I was going to get a call up. It was very cool.

ELI: What was the clubhouse like when you got there?

J.R.: Well, I knew some of the guys so it wasn't bad. I knew Chris Sampson, he was my college coach. I knew Berkman, so these guys took me. They are all great guys though. I mean, you know about the whole dress up, but that is part of the deal. They all treated me really well.

ELI: Can you take me through the at-bat where you got your first hit?

J.R.: Yeah, I was 0-2 on the day. In my third at-bat, I was ahead in the count and I thought I had a fastball coming out and away. I got it and was able to hit it well, and then I was able to keep building off that. I kept hitting and kept getting RBIs.

ELI: Speaking of RBIs, can you tell me about the game where you had 8 RBIs?

J.R.: Yeah I was 3-3 in the fifth inning with I think, 5 RBIs. After I got that double, I knew it was going to be a special game. It was cool, we kept scoring, they named me Player of the Game, it was great. I thought it was great and all after the game but when they told me I set a franchise record, I realized how special it really was. You know, Bagwell, Biggio, Berkman, all those guys have been here so long, so yeah, it was pretty special.

ELI: If you could catch for one pitcher, from the past or present, who would it be?

J.R.: Probably Nolan Ryan. He is a Hall of Famer, he has got the most K's, all those no-hitters. He is a great guy, and he was once an Astro.

Astros Close In On Martinez?

Baseball Prospectus is reporting that the Astros are on the verge of signing free agent veteran Pedro Martinez. Astros GM Ed Wade told me, as well as several other outlets, that the Astros had to make serious cutbacks back in December. To think that they are going to sign two future Hall of Famers is a surprise, and should give them some momentum early on in the season.

UPDATE: Astros GM Ed Wade denies the report.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Astros to Sign Wolf?

According to the Houston Chronicle, the Astros and Randy Wolf are close to working out an extension. Wolf, who is 12-12 with a 4.30 ERA, has done a great job for the Astros. He is just thirty-two, and will likely receive a three year extension making at least 8.5 million dollars. The Astros will likely sign Wolf. He has expressed his interest in resigning and Ed Wade would love to have a veteran like Wolf at the bottom half of the rotation. 

If the Astros can sign Wolf and Ben Sheets, they would definitely be in contention in 2009. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Team by Team Updates from Orlando

Angels: After signing Gary Matthews to a five year deal, the Angels have kept fairly quiet. GM Bill Stoneman arrived late Monday and had minor discussions with a couple different teams. The Angels are tossing names around like Bartolo Colon and Felix Rodriguez in hopes of acquiring a bat. But other than just rumors, there has been no news to report.

Astros: The latest news from the Winter Meetings for the Astros is that Andy Pettitte wants to pitch next year and is leaning towards returning to the Astros. This could influence Roger Clemens decision on whether he wants to return to Boston, New York, Houston, or just retire. The Astros are also discussing a possible trade for Jason Jennings.

Athletics: The A's appear to be the number one team to sign Mike Piazza as their DH. The deal is a two year deal worth 15 million dollars. They are also working on a deal with Alan Embree.

Blue Jays: The Blue Jays are desperately trying to retain Ted Lilly but it appears that the Cubs are the favorite. Lilly has received a four year offer, worth 40 million dollars. "That's just hearsay from our end," Ricciardi said. "I personally talked to Ted Lilly on Saturday and had a great conversation with him. That's really all I can go on." The Blue Jays are also targeting Gil Meche, and are talking with the White Sox about trading Vernon Wells.

Braves: Reports from Orlando are saying that the Braves may look to trade Adam LaRoche and Marcus Giles. However, there are also rumors concerning Andruw Jones as well. It appears that GM John Schuerholz will look to trades before signings.

Brewers: The Brewers have been talking with teams about trading Geoff Jenkins or Kevin Mench, and have heard the Red Sox are interested in acquiring Derrek Turnbow. The Brewers are also interested in signing Kenny Lofton. They also are working a deal with Tony Graffanino who appears to be staying in Milwaukee.

Cardinals: The Cardinals have inked a five year, 65 million dollar deal with Chris Carpenter. The also plan to meet with Jason Schmidt. Other than that, the Cardinals have been relatively quiet.

Cubs: The Cubs have made an offer to Ted Lilly at an estimated 40 million over four years. They are also looking into Jason Schmidt and Gil Meche. They are also looking to trade Jacque Jones, have inquired about Jason Jennings, and may look to sign outfielders Cliff Floyd and Kenny Lofton.

Devil Rays: The Devil Rays main priority is to build their bullpen. However, that has not stopped them from looking to trade Rocco Baldelli, Jorge Cantu, or Carl Crawford. They are also working on a deal to sign Akinori Iwamura.

Diamondbacks: The Dbacks have been very quiet, hoping they could possibly sign Mark Mulder. The have also met with the agents of Keith Foulke.

Dodgers: The Dodgers appear to be interested in Jason Schmidt and have only had few conversations. On Monday, the Dodgers and Red Sox were talking about a trade for Manny Ramirez, but according to Colletti, the deal has a less than "5 percent" chance of getting done. They are close to finalizing a deal with Mike Lieberthal and rookie closer Takashi Saito.

Giants: The Giants have signed numerous players over the past week and have just began to finalize them. They have signed Dave Roberts, Rich Aurilia, Bengie Molina, and have resigned Pedro Feliz. The Giants are looking into signing Ryan Klesko, and have inquired about the Mariners Richie Sexon and the Cubs Jacque Jones.

Indians: Joe Borowski will take a physical either today or tomorrow for the Indians and then he will sign a one year deal. However, they will still look into signing Octavio Dotel or Keith Foulke. The Indians are really focusing on pitching and beefing up their bullpen after signing Dellucci.

Mariners: The Mariners are in hot pursuit of two pitchers. They plan to meet with Jason Schmidt and appear to be the favorites if the Cubs sign Lilly. However, Schmidt has said he wants to win now and has no problem leaving the West Coast. They are also looking to trade for Jason Jennings, but so are several other teams.

Marlins: The Marlins are showing serious interest in acquiring Rocco Baldelli. The Marlins are reluctant to part with pitching, but according to sources, Scott Olsen could get the deal done.

Mets: The Mets were in hot pursuit of Barry Zito but may have to settle for a veteran because of how high Zito's price tag is. Scott Boras is reportedly asking for a six to seven year deal, worth 102 million dollars. The Rangers seem more willing to offer the big deal.

Nationals: The Red Sox and Giants are talking a three way deal with the Nationals concerning Manny Ramirez. They would probably lose Chad Cordero and possibly acquire Noah Lowry. However it is just speculation. The Nationals Ryan Church, Jose Vidro, and Chad Cordero are all drawing interest in other trades.

Orioles: Rodrigo Lopez is on the topic of most general managers list of pitchers. The Mariners, Brewers, and Mets have all inquired about Lopez but no deal appears imminent. The Brewers have offered Kevin Mench but a formal offer will have to be sketched out. The Braves appear interested in Brian Roberts but the Orioles are reluctant to trade him.

Padres: The Padres are closing in on a deal with Greg Maddux. The deal is estimated at a one year deal worth 10 million dollars with an option for one more. They are also interested in Jason Schmidt and Ronnie Belliard.

Phillies: A frustrating off season so far might make a turn for the worst. Pat Burrell is drawing little to know interest and the Phillies continue to struggle to find pitching. Eaton only pitched in 65 innings and pitched okay when he returned. They are looking to Chicago to acquire Freddy Garcia, possibly reuniting Aaron Rowand. The Cubs might also be interested in Aaron Rowand because they are in need of a center fielder.

Pirates: The Pirates are talking with the Braves and Reds about Adam LaRoche and Adam Dunn. They have also inquired about Trot Nixon for right field. None of these deals appear to be finalized soon. The Pirates do have a slight advantage with the overload of pitching. They could acquire a decent hitter for a pitcher or two.

Rangers: The Rangers and Vicente Padilla have agreed to a three year deal, worth 33 million dollars. This will set the minimum for other second tier pitchers like Ted Lilly and Gil Meche. The Rangers also expect to make a serious run for Barry Zito, who is seeking a six year deal, worth 17 million annually.

Red Sox: The Red Sox are close to signing Julio Lugo and J.D. Drew. They also plan to finalize a deal with Daisuke Matsuzaka. Theo Epstein has also set a deadline for when he will stop trying to trade Manny Ramirez. THIS JUST IN: The Red Sox have agreed to a 5 year deal, worth 70 million dollars. I do not see Manny Ramirez being traded because the teams that are pursuing him do not have what the Red Sox want. Or they are not willing to part with what the Red Sox want.

Reds: The Reds have signed a 2 year deal, worth 5 million dollars total with Dave Weathers. Other than Weathers and Gonzalez, that is all the news from the Reds office. Adam Dunn is drawing some interest from teams but no deals have been worked out.

Rockies: The Rockies have signed LaTroy Hawkins and he will be their setup man. Several teams have inquired about Jason Jennings including the Astros, Cubs, Mariners, Mets, Rangers, and Twins. They also have interest in Kenny Lofton and Darin Erstad.

Royals: The Royals have focused on pitching, and have made an offer to Miguel Batista (3/24). They also have put Gil Meche as a top priority but it appears he will either go to the Cubs or Blue Jays.

Tigers: Jeremy Bonderman and Marcus Thames' names have come up in trades but the Tigers do not appear to be interested in trading them. They are interested in trading for Marlins pitcher Renyel Pinto. Pinto, 24, went to the Marlins last year in the Juan Pierre deal. He pitched from the bullpen most of the season.

Twins: The Twins are serious about acquiring Jason Jennings and a deal could get struck by tomorrow. With Liriano out for 2007 and Radke to retire, the Twins are looking for pitching and due to a lack of funds, will have to do it by trade. They are also working a deal to keep Rondell White.

White Sox: White Sox pitcher Brandon McCarthy may start in AAA next year unless they can trade one of their pitchers. Javier Vasquez and Freddy Garcia have both drawn a lot of interest from the Mets, Phillies, and Yankees and it is more than "50 percent" possible that one of them gets traded. The White Sox are also interested in acquiring Vernon Wells but I do not know if they have what it takes to trade him. They also have interest in Aaron Rowand.

Yankees: The Yankees have made an offer to Andy Pettitte worth 15 million for one year. The Yankees and Bernie Williams have also had minor discussions about a deal. They are also close to a deal with Kei Igawa. They have interest in Ted Lilly, Gil Meche, and Freddy Garcia (via trade).

Astros Extend Cooper

The Astros have exercised manager Cecil Cooper's option for the 2010 season, Ken Rosenthal is reporting. Despite a 3-7 start, the Astros feel that Cooper has turned this team around after posting one of the best records in the second half last season. Cooper has a 104-98 record since taking over as the Astros manager, and put up 86 wins last season.

"I appreciate their confidence in me," Cooper said "I do believe we are better and we will continue to get better. We've got some terrific young players coming up and I'm excited to be a part of that next year."

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

2009 Top 50 Free Agents Predictions: 21-30

21. Casey Blake, Dodgers

- Blake is coming off a big year, having helped the Dodgers reach the NLCS. However, he prefers to play at a small venue and will likely return to the Midwest.

Prediction: Twins

22. Jon Garland, Angels

- Garland is a solid pitcher who will eat a lot of innings. He is coming off a 14-win season and has dominated in years past, so he is an interesting character. I expect teams that miss out on their first targets to go after him.

Prediction: Dodgers

23. Andy Pettitte, Yankees

- Pettitte wants to play with the Yankees, and the Yankees would like him. Seems like a solid match.

Prediction: Yankees

24. Jamie Moyer, Phillies

- Moyer had a great year with the Phillies and is a leader in the clubhouse. Another one year deal after a sixteen win season makes sense.

Prediction: Phillies

25. Randy Wolf, Astros

- Wolf did a great job for the Astros after he was let go by the Padres, and the Astros have already expressed interest in resigning him. 

Prediction: Astros

26. Edgar Renteria, Tigers

- Renteria was let go by the Tigers after a rough season, but would likely bounce back playing for a good team in a strong, close clubhouse. A reunion in St. Louis makes sense.

Prediction: Cardinals

27. Brad Penny, Dodgers

- Penny was let go by the Dodgers despite winning 38 games over the past three seasons. He is hurt, but I'm sure several teams will be in on him.

Prediction: Angels

28. John Smoltz, Braves

- A career Brave, GM Frank Wren will bring him back.

Prediction: Braves

29. Mark Grudzielanek, Royals

- Grudzielanek has kept a pretty solid average over the past couple of seasons and will likely land a back up or platoon job somewhere.

Prediction: Rockies

30. Randy Johnson, Diamondbacks

- The Diamondbacks cannot afford to bring Randy Johnson back, so he will hit the open market looking to reach 300-wins. 

Prediction: Rangers

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Astros Acquire Keppinger

The Astros have acquired infielder Jeff Keppinger from the Reds in exchange for a player to be named later. This likely means that Keppinger will spending the majority of his time at third base with Geoff Blum, the role meant for third baseman Aaron Boone, who is having season ending surgery. Keppinger gives the Astros more options in the infield. Because he is versatile, he gives manager Cecil Cooper the option to pull Miguel Tejada or Kaz Matsui late in a game if needed. 

A solid, low cost addition for the Astros.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Astros Sign Pudge

The Astros and Ivan Rodriguez have agreed to a one year deal worth 1.5 million dollars, ESPN.com is reporting. The Astros needed to make an addition after seeing their current catchers struggle this spring. With Tejada, Lee, Berkman, and now Rodriguez, the Astros have a very strong lineup that could do some damage in the NL Central.

More details soon.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Astros Looking To Dump Payroll?

According to the Boston Globe, the Astros are looking to clear some payroll and have made Jose Valverde and Miguel Tejada available. While teams probably have more interest in Lance Berkman or Roy Oswalt, both Tejada and Valverde are solid players who might not cost as much as people think. Tejada will be coming into a contract year and has already made it clear that he is preparing for a big year. 

Tejada and Valverde's total salary for 2009 will come out close to 22 million dollars (assuming Valverde's 2009 salary is around 7-8 million), just four million more than Ordonez's 2009 salary. If the Astros traded Tejada and Valverde to the Tigers for Ordonez and a top prospect or two, they would dump nearly four million dollars, maybe even more if the Tigers take Valverde to arbitration. Another possibility for the Astros would be to acquire a package around Nate Robertson, Dusty Ryan, and other top prospects. While the Tigers are not looking to give up several top prospects for the second straight year, they could consider a small package around a major leaguer to help make them better. 

At this point, Tejada looks more like a trade deadline acquisition than an offseason trade acquisition. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Astros Sign Hampton

According to MLB.com, the Astros and starting pitcher Mike Hampton have agreed to a major-league deal, pending a physical. Hampton, 36, went 3-4 with a 4.85 ERA and 38 K in 13 starts this past season. However, he missed all of 2006 and 2007 and pitched in just 12 games in 2005. The Astros are Hampton's longest tenured team, having pitched with them for six seasons and compiling a 66-40 with a 3.45 ERA. 

This deal could end discussions between the Astros and Randy Wolf, who recently decided to "slow" the negotiations down. We'll see what happens.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Lidge To Be Traded?

The Red Sox are eyeing struggling Astros closer Brad Lidge, if he becomes available. The Astros continue to fall out of contention now twelve games behind the Brewers. Meanwhile, Astros front office has been pressured to make a change and could receive good compensation in return from the Red Sox. This season, Lidge is 2-1 with a 2.34 ERA and 44 K and has been the subject of many trade rumors when he got off to a slow start this season. The sooner he comes back, the better chances the Astros will have of trading him.

Around the Majors

Source: Jon Heyman

Several teams have said that they would like to add a second baseman, suggesting that both Robinson Cano and Brian Roberts could be on the move this offseason. The Brewers attempted to land Brian Roberts last spring, but failed after their unwillingness to trade Alcides Escobar or Manny Parra. It is possible the Brewers will try again after seeing Rickie Weeks fail to find his swing again this season. With Sabathia and Sheets heading to free agency, it is likely the Brewers will be very busy trying to keep their team together.

The Yankees are looking for outfield options and have set their sights on Matt Kemp. They could work a deal involving Robinson Cano, and bring in Kemp as their center fielder. Other options for center field include David DeJesus, but he struggled defensively this season. Another option is Milton Bradley, who is a free agent following this season playing for the Texas Rangers. Playing for a good team could entice Bradley, who hasn't played for a contender in his career.

The Rockies would like to add a number one starter and may pursue Ryan Dempster or Jon Garland. They could also pursue Derek Lowe if he doesn't sign with the Dodgers.

After LaTroy Hawkins dominated for the Astros, there is word that the Astros would like to resign him. Hawkins is very familiar with the NL Central and is very comfortable and confident with what he has. He would be a good signing for the Astros.

Andy Pettitte will likely wait until January or February to sign with a club. It is frustrating that that Andy Pettitte continues to put off his decision till the very last minute, but there is nothing we can do about it. He will likely sign with the Yankees, Astros, or Dodgers.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Cardinals Interested In Tejada

Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Post Dispatch is reporting that the Cardinals have interest in Astros shortstop Miguel Tejada. Tejada is hitting .355 with 6 home runs and 21 doubles in 57 games, and is hitting .378 in the month of June. Tejada is owed 13 million dollars, and the Astros probably would like to clear payroll considering their current financial situation. Watching Miguel Tejada, you know he would be perfect for the Cardinals. The intensity he brings to each game would give the Cardinals another boost, and make them a much harder team to face in the NL Central. 

The Astros could take Khalil Greene with a prospect in return, but with the Astros in last place, they may be better off getting prospects. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Friday Grumblings

Rowand Taking Over In Center For Dodgers?: Free agent outfielder Aaron Rowand is drawing a lot of interest from teams around the league, and his new contract is expected to be big. Although he is asking for fifteen million, one MLB executive tells me he expects the deal to top 90 million dollars. There are several teams interested in Rowand that could take on that kind of contract. The Dodgers, White Sox, Rangers, Cubs, and Astros have all made contact with Rowand, but it appears the Dodgers have the inside track because of Rowand's connections to Southern California.

Tigers Interested In Hernandez: The Tigers are expressing interest in Livan Hernandez. According to MLB Rumors Correspondent Tim Wallace, Livan prefers to play in New York with his half-brother Orlando, but is willing to listen to offers. Look for the Cardinals to inquire about Hernandez before his price goes up.

Brewers Eye Kendall?: The Brewers are interested in Kendall. Not a surprise here. Kendall is known for working with young pitchers well and his experience in the NL Central would make a change much easier.

Yankees Sign Molina, Braves Trade Villarreal: The Yankees signed Jose Molina to back up Posada to a two year contract, worth four million dollars. Not much to say here except it gives Joe Girardi a solid backup behind Posada. Also, the Braves traded Oscar Villarreal to the Astros for Josh Anderson. Anderson, 25, batted .358 with 0 HR and 11 RBI. He is very fast, and gives the Braves another option in center.

Royals Close to Deal with Yasuhiko Yabuta: According to MLB Rumors Correspondent Steve Wilson, the Royals are nearing a deal with Japanese pitcher Yasuhiko Yabuta. He was 4-6 last season with a 2.73 ERA and four saves in 58 games. This probably won't be the last pitcher the Royals sign from Japan. Trey Hillman has first hand knowledge of these guys and will be able to coach them better than some coaches.

UPDATE: Ken Rosenthal has confirmed the report and said it is a two year deal with an option for a third.

Marlins After Barrett, Lo Duca to Rockies?: The Marlins have turned their attention to signing Michael Barrett. If you look at my article back in September, it says that the Marlins might look at him if they have some cash open. However, the Marlins could sign Barrett to a deal similar to Torrealba, and work his annually salary into their budget. A catcher will not come cheap now that the Mets over payed for Torrealba, so they will need to open their wallet. The Rockies have begun talks with Paul Lo Duca, but talks have not gotten far.

Marlins, Astros Eying Pudge?

Free agent catcher Ivan Rodriguez is still looking for a starting job, and is stating his claim for a job in the WBC representing Puerto Rico. Pudge is 5-for-8 with 2 HR so far this Classic, and has no plans to back off his contract demands. Both the Marlins and Astros are looking at Pudge, but are not willing to meet his demands just yet. Sources have informed me that the Astros are seriously considering Rodriguez because J.R. Towles is struggling (1-for-12) and they do not have an alternate to start there. 

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel is reporting that the Marlins are still interested, but are hoping Pudge will back off his demands. Pudge hit .276 with 7 HR in 115 games last season, and is seeking a one year deal. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Astros Sign Geoff Blum

The Astros have reached an agreement with Geoff Blum, according to MLB Rumors Correspondent Steve Wilson. The deal is between one and two years, and he will probably be suited as a back up. He stated his interest to come back to the club so it is no surprise that this deal gets done as teams prepare for the big spending after Thanksgiving. Blum won a World Series with the White Sox in 2005 and played for the Astros is 2002 and 2003.

New Report: Astros Have Company for Lee

Jason Stark of ESPN is now saying that Carlos Lee is looking into the Orioles as a possible destination. The Orioles got serious about Lee this weekend when it appeared that Soriano was signed by the Cubs, and a report from Houston saying that the Astros and Lee were close. Even though those rumors were false, for now, the Orioles ignited their front office and began talks about bringing the the left fielder in. Carlos Lee is now arguably the most sought after free agent on the market, so the Orioles will have to face other possible suitors: Rangers, Giants, Dodgers, and Astros all appear very serious about signing the power hitter. I see this stretching out for a while, Lee will want more money now that Soriano was able to reel in so much. I expect him to command a 4-5 year deal, 13-14 million annually.

Source: ESPN

Prior to Astros?

According to Buster Olney, Padres pitcher Mark Prior will be ready for the start of the 2009 season. Not only that, but he is expected to explore the market. Prior reportedly feels good, but how many times has he said that since he first got hurt back in 2005. The Astros were very interested in Prior last year and may jump in on him now that he is "healthy." Prior, 28, has the make up of an ace, and if he can give any team fifteen starts, it will be a success. The Astros, who have decent pitching but would benefit from Prior, may make a move on him hoping that he is healthy.

It is worth a shot.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Stock Rising or Falling

The first installment of Stock Rising or Falling for the 2009 season:

Mike Fontenot, Cubs: Fontenot came into Spring Training knowing that he would be competing for the starting job at second against Aaron Miles. Fontenot is hitting .363 (12-33) with 2 HR and six extra base hits so far this Spring, and is playing well at second base.

Brett Anderson, Athletics: Anderson, 21, is off to a good start this Spring and may be on the fast track to joining the Athletics rotation. In 5.2 innings this Spring, Anderson has given up five hits and two earned runs. I think the talk is a little premature, considering his command is still a little shaky, but this guy definitely has a future in the Athletics rotation. 

Netherlands National Team: They defeated the heavily favored Dominican National Team and have become the WBC underdog overnight. 

Stock Falling:

Joe Mauer, Twins: Mauer has been complaining of a sore back, which may put his contract talks on hold. He hasn't played in a Spring Training game yet, and doesn't have a timetable to return either.

J.R. Towles, Astros: Once a highly touted Astros prospect, Towles is being faced with another demotion if he cannot find his swing at the plate. The Astros have considered signing Pudge Rodriguez, but nothing is serious just yet. He is just 1-for-12 this Spring.

Ervin Santana, Angels: Santana has been shut down and may miss Opening Day dealing with his elbow. Santana pitched 219 innings last season, plus 5.1 from the playoffs, as well as 16 innings in the Winter Leagues.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Three Team Race For Pettitte

Free agent pitcher Andy Pettitte is drawing interest from at least three teams. The Astros, Rangers, and Dodgers have all expressed interest in Pettitte, who went 14-14 with a 4.54 ERA in thirty-three games last season. He held out for more money with the Yankees, who offered him ten million dollars for one year. Sources with knowledge of the situation said that Pettitte would likely accept a one year deal in the range of 14 million dollars - but teams looking to sign Pettitte probably won't go higher than 10, maybe 11 million dollars. 

Astros GM Ed Wade told me at the Winter Meetings that the Astros have had to make serious cutbacks during the economic crisis, meaning they will likely wait for prices to come down even more. As for the Rangers, they have had a bad history of rewarding big contracts to pitchers who didn't pan out, and will likely stay away from a one year investment with someone like Pettitte, especially with guys like Oliver Perez and Mark Mulder still available. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.