Brewers Pursuing Peavy?

Would the Brewers trade for two of the best pitchers in less than six months? According to the Boston Globe, the Brewers may make a run at Peavy hoping that he will take charge of their rotation. The Brewers could package a deal involving JJ Hardy and Manny Parra, along with prospect Cole Gillespie, Jeremy Jeffress, and someone like Mitch Stetter to help the bullpen and maybe even the rotation. Adding Peavy's relatively inexpensive salary while dumping Sheets' could potential open up the scenario of Jake Peavy and CC Sabathia pitching on the same team. 

Unloading Sheets, Gagne, Hardy (in trade), and possibly Weeks clears up some money that would go to arbitration for a serious run at Sabathia. What I expect the Brewers to do is look to a five year deal around 100 million dollars, hoping that they can reel him in with the annual salary instead of the total payout. The Brewers could work his annual salary into their payroll so by the end of his contract, the Brewers could pay him 27 or 28 million dollars. 

This isn't out of the realm of possibility. The Brewers do not have anyone that is worthy of a long term contract right now, besides Prince Fielder. However, Fielder made 670,000 this season and is still several years away from free agency (he also might get traded before the Brewers are forced to pay him). It's a big if, but Melvin has always been aggressive - we'll see what happens. 

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Perez to Brewers?

If the Brewers fail to sign CC Sabathia and Ben Sheets, they will target Oliver Perez, industry sources believe. The Brewers do expect a counter offer from Sabathia, but it will likely be closer to seven years around 22-24 million dollars. The Yankees appear to be the only team willing to go that long and for that price, but don't be surprised if the Brewers break the bank with Sabathia. The Brewers future success really rests with Sabathia, who personally carried them into the postseason. Yes, they have several young pitchers, but there is no guarantee win every fifth day. 

The Red Sox should be a model for the Brewers. While they have the money to pursue CC Sabathia, they plan to go after A.J. Burnett instead while pursuing other needs as well. If the Brewers are willing to invest at least twenty-million dollars on one player, why not spread that around? If they went out and signed Oliver Perez, they could also pursue Jon Garland, fortifying the bottom end of their rotation. Not only that, but they would have money to sign Joe Crede, who could take over at third base. Realistically, that would cost them around 25 million dollars, but it is three rather healthy (and young) players instead of one, overweight player with questions about the strength of his shoulder following the end of this season. 

While my scenario is highly unlikely, the Brewers would be smart to go after under the radar guys who are going to produce big. 

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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).

Brewers Reliever Torres Retires

Milwaukee Brewers closer Salomon Torres has retired after twelve seasons in the big leagues. He had a great year for the Brewers this season going 7-5 with a career high 28 saves. He is 44-58 with a 4.31 ERA and 57 SV over the course of his career with the Giants, Mariners, Expos, Pirates, and Brewers. Torres retiring could trigger the Brewers to make a deal for a closer. The Rockies have indicated that they may shop Huston Street in a trade and the Brewers could jump in and offer Rickie Weeks and a prospect. They could be forced to bring back Eric Gagne, but he proved to everyone that he cannot handle the closer role. 

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Brewers Closing In On Looper

According to the Boston Globe, the Brewers are closing in on free agent pitcher Braden Looper. Looper, who went 12-14 with a 4.16 ERA in 33 starts, is the veteran pitcher the Brewers need. Adding Looper will take pressure off Yovani Gallardo to be their ace, as well as Manny Parra, who is coming off a terrible second half of the season. 

However, the Brewers signed a similar pitcher Jeff Suppan from the Cardinals back in 2006. Since then, he has gone 22-22, seeing a drop in strikeouts and a rise in ERA over the past two seasons. The Brewers might be smarter to go after someone like Randy Wolf or holding out for prices to fall on Oliver Perez or Ben Sheets. We'll see how this move plays out.

UPDATE: A source with knowledge of the Braden Looper negotiations responded "no" when asked if Looper was closing in on a deal with the Brewers.

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Brewers Targeting Peavy?

The Chicago Tribune is reporting that the Brewers could target Jake Peavy to make a serious run at the division. It seems far-fetched considering the Brewers traded four prospects, including top prospect Matt LaPorta. However, the Brewers have a young core of talent and could make a trade without hurting themselves too much. 

If the Brewers were to trade J.J. Hardy (opening up a spot for Alcides Escobar), along with someone like Cole Gillespie and two pitching prospects, they could probably land Peavy. If they let Mike Cameron walk, they will probably receive a compensation pick in the 2010 draft. Not only that, but Prince Fielder and Corey Hart could both be traded for prospects if needed. Mat Gamel has great potential and could take over at first while Lorenzo Cain could take over in right at some point in the near future.

More importantly, this move would give the Brewers a push that would put them in serious contention in the NL Central. While they lose several players, the minor league talent the Cubs and Cardinals possess really doesn't present a serious long term threat. Adding Peavy to that strong offensive team presents a legitimate threat to the heavily favored Cubs, who also plan to target Peavy when their ownership situation is resolved. 

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Sveum Won't Be Manager

The Brewers extended General Manager Doug Melvin yesterday and decided to let Dave Sveum walk, who did a fairly good job for the Brewers in September. Although Sveum was respected by his players, the Brewers would prefer someone more experienced who would command respect from some of the younger players: "They need someone who commands respect as soon as he walks into the clubhouse..." said one NL scout. 

As for possible options, Larry Bowa and Don Mattingly are available, but the Brewers might need permission to interview. Another option would be Buck Showalter, who is currently working with Baseball Tonight. Bobby Valentine has probably already called the Brewers about the opening, but he is a good option so that might not be a bad thing. This will likely get settled within the next two weeks. 

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Brewers Considering Options

Brewers General Manager Doug Melvin said he will explore the market for open managers for the 2009 season. "I owe it to myself and the organization to make sure we're not overlooking somebody else out there," said Melvin. There are several solid candidates available, aside from Svuem, who would really help the Brewers. It would be worth the Brewers while to contact the Dodgers about Don Mattingly, consider Larry Bowa, Buck Showalter, Leo Mazzone, and Alan Trammell about the possible opening. While Svuem is familiar with the team, he lacks the experience that all these guys have. 

The Brewers are expected to make a decision shortly after the World Series so they can use him in negotiations with players. 

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Brewers Sign Catalanotto

The Brewers and Frank Catalanotto have come to terms on the a minor-league deal, Eli's MLB Rumors has confirmed.

"I've talked to him personally," Brewers GM Doug Melvin said by phone Tuesday afternoon. "He's going to be a specialized guy. We're hoping he can improve our quality at-bats coming off the bench." 

The story was first reported by Ken Rosenthal of Foxsports.com.

Melvin confirmed the report that Catalanotto will report to extended spring training for five to seven days before they send him to one of their minor league clubs.

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Brewers Sign Fielder

The Brewers and Prince Fielder have agreed to a two year deal worth 18 million dollars, according to media reports. Fielder, who hit .276 with 34 HR and a .372 OBP, will take his physical in the next day or two. This will keep Fielder in Milwaukee for at least one more season. The Brewers have listened to offers for Fielder over the past couple of months and could try to move him if the price is right. The Brewers would like a starting pitcher in return for Fielder, and could package a deal to get Matt Cain of the Giants, or maybe even Roy Halladay, if he were to become available.

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Brewers Might Tender Estrada

According to MLB Rumors Correspondent Thomas Reiss, Brewers GM Doug Melvin plans to look at some of the free agent catchers available, suggesting that they plan to tender Johnny Estrada. There are several catchers available, and the most likely replacements seem to be either Paul Lo Duca, Michael Barrett, or Yorvit Torrealba. Estrada was not terrible for the Brewers this season, batting .278 with 10 HR and 54 RBI. Some of the other catchers have the potential to be better, but were not this season which makes me think Melvin might be saying this to stir up interest in his catcher. There are no replacements that are major league ready and he will only be making about 4.2-4.5 million dollars next season, a lot less than what the free agents will be getting. But he is coming off elbow surgery and risk of him not performing both at the plate and behind the plate makes some think that the Brewers will overpay to make sure that will not happen. Furthermore, the scuffle he had with manager Ned Yost did upset some in the Front Office which could also lead to his departure. For now, I suspect that they will hold on to him. He is a veteran catcher who would continue to work with some of the young pitchers now on the staff and is on schedule to be ready for Spring Training 2008.

Randolph, Brenly Leading For Brewers Job

According to the NY Daily News, there is mutual interest between the Brewers and Willie Randolph about their managing position. While Randolph is drawing interest from the Nationals and Yankees, I'm sure managing a team like the Brewers would entice him. Randolph lead the Mets to an NL East title in 2006, but fell short in 2007 and failed to get the team going in 2008. The media was on him a lot in New York, so he might fair better in Milwaukee where the media isn't as intense. Another candidate, Bob Brenly, is currently the Cubs' broadcaster. He is very familiar with the Brewers' make up and the media loves him, as well as the whole NL Central. The media is also a big fan of Brenly, who he knows well from working with them in Chicago.

Other candidates include Ken Macha and Buck Showalter.

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Hoffman, Brewers Talking Deal?

The Brewers and free agent closer Trevor Hoffman are reportedly working on a deal that would send the future Hall of Famer to Milwaukee. Hoffman is being pursued by at least five teams, but the Brewers are his most aggressive suitor.  Hoffman had 30 saves last season with a 3.77 ERA, his highest ERA since 1995. Yet, he is still an effective closer who will help the Brewers young pitching staff. 

Ken Rosenthal suggests that Hoffman may be willing to sit down with new ownership in couple weeks and see if they are interested in bringing him back. 

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Brewers Sign Gagne

The Brewers and Eric Gagne have agreed to a minor league deal with an invitation to Spring Training. Gagne signed a one year deal with the Brewers last year for 10 million dollars, but he finished with a 5.44 ERA in 50 appearances. The Brewers added Trevor Hoffman and Jorge Julio to fill the pen, but bringing back Gagne in a middle relief role could really be effective. 

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GM: Cameron to Yankees Is "Dead"

Milwaukee Brewers GM Doug Melvin said the Mike Cameron deal to the Yankees is dead. They couldn't come to an agreement on how much money was going to be going between the teams. Melvin intended to use the money that was freed up to go after pitching, but said the market has started to dry up, which suggests the Brewers might be done making moves.

The Brewers need a veteran in their rotation to support oft-injured pitcher Yovani Gallardo. Manny Parra showed signs of being a great pitcher, but fell apart in the second half of the season going 2-6, after going 8-2 coming into July. Parra lost some movement on his pitches in the second half, which caused him to leave them over the plate. It is possible he could emerge as their top starter next season, but the Brewers would be smart to go after someone like Randy Wolf, Andy Pettitte, Oliver Perez, or former Brewer Ben Sheets to anchor the rotation and take some pressure off their young pitchers.
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Brewers Interested In Veteran Pitchers

According to Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, the Brewers are targeting Jamie Moyer, Randy Johnson, Randy Wolf, and John Smoltz as potential replacements in their rotation. All four pitchers are question marks, suggesting that the Brewers may be struggling to close a deal with Ben Sheets. Still, there are several good pitchers who should come cheap in a couple weeks. Guys like Jon Garland or Oliver Perez, both of whom have double digit wins under their belts. 

The Brewers expressed a willingness to spend big this offseason and should be able to spend some of that money on guys to keep them in contention. 

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Yankees Waiting On Brewers?

The Yankees are reportedly interested in Brewers outfielder Mike Cameron, who is currently waiting to see whether or not the Brewers pick up his 10 million dollar option. According to the NY Post citing industry sources, the Yankees are waiting to see if the Brewers pick up his option because they think he is an upgrade over Johnny Damon and Melky Cabrera. Damon had a solid for the Yankees, and is a lefty, so it is possible they would trade him and pursue a better option, or platoon between Gardner and Cabrera. The Cubs and Mariners are possible destinations for Damon.

The Yankees are reportedly targeting Mark Teixeira, CC Sabathia, and Derek Lowe, so adding Mike Cameron will only increase their payroll. 

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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.

Yankees Trade Wright

The Yankees have traded Chase Wright to the Brewers for OF/C Eric Fryer. Wright, 25, went 10-3 with a 2.85 ERA with the Double-A, Triple-A, and Gulf Coast affiliates of the Yankees. He had some success in the majors for the Yankees, and could be given another opportunity with the Brewers. 

The Yankees receive Eric Fryer, 23, who hit .335  with 10 HR in 104 games at Class A for the Brewers, and will likely be assigned to Class A Tampa for the start of the 2009 season.

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Quick Hits: Street, Blake, Arbuckle, Blalock

Quick Hits:

• The Brewers are reportedly considering making a run for closer Huston Street, according to the NY Post. While the Brewers are intriguing, the plethora of prospects in Cleveland make them much more intriguing. If the Athletics trade Street, expect them to look for three or four mid to low-level pitching prospects. 
• The Indians, who are looking for an upgrade at third base, may target Dodgers third baseman Casey Blake. The Indians traded Blake back in July, but believe there is mutual interest in a reunion in Cleveland. Blake reportedly prefers playing for a smaller venue, and it showed in his split stats between Cleveland and Los Angeles. The Twins, White Sox, and Orioles have expressed interest in signing a corner infielder.
• Former Phillies Director of Scouting Mike Arbuckle is drawing a lot of interest around the majors. Arbuckle is credited with drafting Hamels, Utley, Howard, Rollins, Myers, and Ruiz, among others, and will likely get signed very soon. The Royals are reportedly "very interested," but so are the Brewers and Yankees.
• The Dodgers are hoping to bring in a third baseman for 2009 and could target Hank Blalock if they miss out on Casey Blake. Ned Colletti would like to get a corner infielder and trading for Blalock would really improve their lineup. 

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