Top 15 Remaining Free Agents

1. Manny Ramirez, Dodgers

- Boras' asking price for Manny is too high, and teams don't want to offer a long term deal to someone known for giving up easily. Because he has held out so long, he might have to take a one year deal.

Prediction: Dodgers

2. Derek Lowe, Dodgers

Now that the Yankees have made it clear that they are done spending on the market, the Lowe sweepstakes are heating up. The Mets, Phillies, Red Sox, and maybe Braves are all in contention for the most durable pitcher in baseball. I'm surprised that the Brewers aren't making a run.

Prediction: Mets

3. Adam Dunn, Diamondbacks

- Dunn would make for a good DH, but his close ties to Nationals GM Jim Bowden make him a favorite to land in Washington. 

Prediction: Nationals

4. Pat Burrell, Phillies

- Burrell's power can't go unnoticed, but his average and proneness to bad slumps may hurt his chances for a long term deal. But if you can hit thirty homeruns, you are going to to have a job. 

Prediction: Rays

5. Ben Sheets, Brewers

- Sheets has been labeled as an injury prone pitcher, but has the potential to be an ace. His 3.09 ERA won't go unnoticed.

Prediction: Rangers

6. Orlando Hudson, Diamondbacks

Hudson is the top second baseman on the market, but teams are worried if he can stay healthy. The Mets desperately want him, but need to trade Luis Castillo to make that happen.

Prediction: Nationals

7. Brian Fuentes, Rockies

- Fuentes has made it clear he wants to play in Anaheim, so the Angels will likely try to get a hometown discount. They have two potential closers already, so they don't necessarily need Fuentes.

Prediction: Cardinals

8. Bobby Abreu, Yankees

- Abreu can hit 20 HR at a pretty good average, so teams will go after him. Not only that, but he has pretty good speed as well. A team might be able to sign him to a two year deal.

Prediction: Mets

9. Jason Giambi, Yankees

- The Giambi race is just starting to heat up, and it looks like it will come down to the Rays and A's. Giambi brings power to the table, and making him a full time DH could improve his numbers.

Prediction: Athletics

10. Oliver Perez, Mets

- The Mets are reportedly in talks with Perez, but are holding out until Perez offers something closer to the Mets' proposal. They know teams aren't going to blow away Perez with a big offer, so a return to the Mets at a good price makes sense.

Prediction: Mets

11. Milton Bradley, Rangers

- Bradley is still in talks with the Cubs; however, some think his agent is still shopping him around. Bradley is very injury prone, and a long term deal is a huge risk, even if the Cubs have a lot of depth. 

Prediction: Cubs

12. Randy Johnson, Diamondbacks

- Johnson has drawn interest from all over the league, but reportedly would like to stay on the West Coast near his family. With that said, the Athletics and Giants are probably his best options. 

Prediction: Giants

13. Orlando Cabrera, White Sox

- Since Rafael Furcal has signed, teams are finding ways to upgrade at the position without going to the free agent market. No team wants to sign Cabrera because they would have to surrender a draft pick. Cabrera is valuable, but not more valuable than a first round draft pick, especially during these times. If he is willing to come down from his asking price, he might find the that the Blue Jays are interested. 

Prediction: White Sox

14. Juan Cruz, Diamondbacks

-Cruz is an established set up man, but teams might be waiting for his price to fall before moving in. The Tigers, Royals, Brewers, and more are all interested in Cruz.

Prediction: Diamondbacks

15. Randy Wolf, Astros

- Wolf is coming off his best year in several seasons, but questions concerning his health are a problem. He will still get a good deal, eventually.

Prediction: Cardinals

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

2009 National League Predictions

National League East

1. New York Mets: 86-76  

2. Florida Marlins: 84-78

3. Atlanta Braves: 84-78

4. Philadelphia Phillies: 83-79

5. Washington Nationals: 64-98

The Mets finally have a strong bullpen that will keep them in games late like it has failed to do the past two seasons. 

National League Central

1. Chicago Cubs: 90-72

2. St. Louis Cardinals: 89-73

3. Milwaukee Brewers: 85-77

4. Cincinnati Reds: 80-82

5. Houston Astros: 76-86

6. Pittsburgh Pirates: 69-93

The Cubs will have a tough season, and could fall apart in September facing the Cardinals, Brewers, Giants, and Diamondbacks in the final two weeks. 

National League West

1. Los Angeles Dodgers: 86-76

2. Arizona Diamondbacks: 82-80

3. San Francisco Giants: 76-86

4. Colorado Rockies: 74-88

5. San Diego Padres: 65-97

The Dodgers are the top team in the division and should be able to hold out, especially if they make another run at Jake Peavy.

National League MVP: Albert Pujols, Cardinals

National League Cy Young: Johan Santana, Mets

National League Rookie of the Year: Jordan Schafer, Braves

National League Manager of the Year: Tony La Russa, Cardinals

NLDS: Cubs defeat Dodgers; Mets defeat Cardinals

NLCS: Mets defeat Cubs

National League Champion: Mets

------------------------------

World Series: Red Sox vs. Mets

Red Sox defeat Mets

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Catcher Grumblings

There are several catchers on the market and it appears a lot of them will be switching homes. Here is the breakdown on these catchers:

C Jorge Posada, Yankees
Posada's negotiations have turned south, and the Yankees are hoping a new contract will change his mind. Most people still believe he will return to the Yankees, but the recent fallout of several players makes me think he will test the market. The Mets are pursuing Yorvit Torrealba, but are keeping Posada at their side. If Posada hits the market, expect the Mets to make a "very aggressive" offer.

C Yorvit Torrealba, Rockies
Torrealba put up solid numbers in the postseason raising his value a little more. He is drawing serious interest from the Marlins and Mets, but the Rockies still hope to hold on to him. Torrealba probably plans to test the waters, and if he does, the Rockies might look elsewhere. According to MLB Rumors Correspondent Brady Yu, they have talked with the representatives of Michael Barrett, and consider him the favorite to land the job if Torrealba walks.

C Michael Barrett, Padres
Barrett will probably get a two to three year deal with annually salary of about 5-6 million. The Padres do not plan to bring him back and all teams are looking at him as an option. The Rockies are most serious about him, I think it is because they know his past numbers and what he could do at Coors Field. The Marlins have expressed interest, along with the Orioles, but only if they trade Ramon Hernandez.

C Jason Kendall, Cubs
The Cubs were very pleased with Geovanny Soto and have said that Kendall is free to test the waters. Although Kendall would love to return, he would love a starting job. The Padres, who have long enamored Kendall, would love to bring him in. Not only would he help some of the Padres pitchers, but he could work with Colt Morton.

C Paul Lo Duca, Mets
If Jorge Posada leaves, the Yankees might go in and sign Paul Lo Duca. But for now, it is up in the air. The Mets, Marlins, and Rockies all look at him as a fall back option, with a dark horse as the Pirates, if they trade Ronny Paulino. The Mets were displeased with the negative attention Lo Duca carried around with him, which is why many think negotiations have stopped. A possibility is the Blue Jays, who would like an upgrade over Greg Zaun.

C Ramon Castro, Mets
Castro put up great numbers as a backup and will probably seek a starting job somewhere. I think a good option is the Nationals, who have yet to find a good catcher and are stuck with Schneider. It is possible he could be the Mets starting catcher in '08, but I think they are looking to make a splash, and will see how the market turns out.

Mets Shopping Beltran?

According to Frank Russo of the NY Baseball Digest, the Mets are willing to listen to offers about outfielder Carlos Beltran. Beltran, who hit .284 with 27 HR and 25 SB, was right on par with his career numbers. He mentions the Yankees as a possible suitor, who would package a deal including Robinson Cano, Ian Kennedy, and two other prospects. However, Rob Neyer breaks down that trade and shows that the only legitimate player they would receive would be Robinson Cano. 

If the Mets are serious about trading Beltran, they would be smart to call the Cubs, who pursued the outfielder back in 2004 before he signed with the Mets. The Cubs would have to give up a couple solid prospects, perhaps Tyler Colvin, Sean Marshall, and Wellington Castillo, along with another player, but he would give them the power hitting lefty (switch-hitter) they need in their lineup. 

If the Rockies are able to unload Matt Holliday or Garrett Atkins, they could use a prospect or two from that deal, along with one of their own prospects, maybe Dexter Fowler, to land Beltran. However, Taylor Buchholz or Ubaldo Jimenez would have to be included. Both have established themselves in the majors and could help the Mets in 2009. Losing Fuentes and Holliday will take some burden off their payroll, so they could easily take on his salary, which would probably be supported by the Mets. 

This sounds like a "video-game scenario," but it is in the realm of possibility with young prospect Fernando Martinez waiting in the wings. The Mets want to reach the playoffs, and trading an All-Star for a bunch of prospects doesn't make sense at the moment.

We'll see what happens.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets Need Second Baseman, Pitching

The Mets are on the verge of completing a three year deal worth 14 million dollars with Yorvit Torrealba. I think the main reason he is being brought in is because of his defense, and impressive ability to call games. He will probably be slotted in the eighth spot because he hit .212 away from Coors Field, and because he is not showing any signs of breaking out. With this signing, it becomes even more important that they sign Luis Castillo, who hit .301 with 1 HR, 38 RBI, and 19 SB with the Mets and Twins last season. He is 32, but is not showing any signs of slowing down. A lot of teams are showing interest, so he might fly out of the Mets' price range. Second base is not a hard position to fill, but it might be, depending on who they ask for. I assume they will offer up a young pitcher or two for Orlando Hudson. They are hungry for pitching and with Livan Hernandez leaving, and they will do anything to bring more in. Other possibilities include Tony Abreu, Jeff Keppinger, Brendan Harris, Josh Barfield, and possibly Cubs prospect Eric Patterson. They do not want to aim too high with a second baseman though. That is because they plan to be in the running for one of the top pitchers that hit the market, specifically Joe Blanton or Dan Haren. They would have to give up one of their top prospects to acquire one, perhaps Phil Humber or Lastings Milledge. Finally, according to MLB Rumors Correspondent Steve Wilson, the Mets have contacted the agent of Octavio Dotel in hopes of striking a deal by the Winter Meetings. The Mets would also be smart to look into free agent pitchers Ron Mahay, Kerry Wood, and Jeremy Affeldt.

UPDATE: The Mets have opened up talks with both David Eckstein and Tadahito Iguchi. Iguchi seems like a possibility because he is looking to play second base. Eckstein, on the other hand, prefers to play shortstop.

Would The Mets Sign Pudge?

According to Mark Healy, the Mets would be smart to sign Ivan Rodriguez this offseason. Schneider hit .257 this season and did a pretty good job handling the staff. However, bringing in a veteran like Pudge would give the Mets a much needed leader, as well as someone who can handle the pitching staff. In a lineup like the Mets, you really don't need a catcher who is going to put up big numbers. If Pudge comes in and can handle the young pitchers and work closely with the veterans, the Mets should be able to get into the playoffs. 

Aside from Rodriguez, it is important that the Mets add bullpen depth as well as depth on the bench. Someone like Daryle Ward or Martin Prado would really help that club. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets To Go After Rodriguez?

After watching the Mets bullpen toss the teams dreams of making the playoffs down the drain, GM Omar Minaya has made it a priority to find relief help. That starts with finding a closer, mostly likely, Francisco Rodriguez. Rodriguez had the best year of his career and will likely make 13-15 million dollars annually. The Mets do not have a closer and the relievers in the bullpen have been hit hard due to not knowing their role with the team. While that may not a be a legitimate excuse, the Mets blew a league leading 29 games this season. 

While it may make more sense to go after Brian Fuentes and spending their money elsewhere. In my opinion, the Mets would be smart to sign Brian Fuentes and their other free agent eligibles, instead of making a big investment on Francisco Rodriguez. They are playing in a division where the Phillies are a going to compete and the Marlins are very close, so it is important that the Mets make smart investments in order to compete. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets Join Sheffield Hunt

UPDATE: MLB Network's Harold Reynolds is reporting that the Mets and Gary Sheffield have agreed to a deal.

SI.com's Jon Heyman is reporting that the Mets have interest in free agent outfielder Gary Sheffield. Heyman says that Sheffield prefers the Mets because they have more flexibility to play him. "The Mets told him, 'You deliver, and you'll play,' '' the Sheffield confidant said. Sheffield would cost the minimum 400,000 dollars, a very good price for a player with serious power potential.

The Reds and Mets are also interested.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets, Manuel Talks Hit Snag

According to Jon Heyman, the talks between the Mets and manager Jerry Manuel have hit a bump, and talks may be off for the weekend. It is believed that the Mets made a two year offer to Manuel, but the sides differed on money. "We are in discussions right now with Jerry. We'll probably continue to talk to him," Minaya said. Manuel did a very good job for the Mets despite failing to make the playoffs. They went 55-38 with him while seeing the resurgence of Carlos Delgado and Mike Pelfrey. 

Manuel could look into other jobs if the Mets do not give him a contract he is looking for, but why would he go from the Mets to the Mariners or Rangers?

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets Looking For Closer?

The Mets are reportedly hoping to trade a couple of prospects for a closer like Huston Street or JJ Putz. According to Newsday, the Mets would like to spend their money elsewhere and have no problem unloading a couple of prospects for a legitimate closer. Among other closers, George Sherrill or Joakim Soria could fill in long term and save the team a lot of money. If the Mets would prefer to trade a low level prospect or two, they could target Marlins closer Kevin Gregg. If you don't remember, the Mets and Marlins worked together a couple years back in several to pull several trades, so they should be very familiar with their farm system.

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News and Notes: Montero to Yankees?

Diamondbacks catcher Miguel Montero is drawing interest on the open market, mostly because scouts believe he may be on the verge of a breakout season. Montero has some experience playing third base, but is most comfortable behind the plate. Montero combines his small frame with a quick swing that finds gaps and is known for having pretty solid instincts behind the plate. 16 of his 47 hits this season were doubles which comes out to a .255 AVG with 5 HR in 70 games. The Yankees, who are reportedly looking for a catcher in the event that Jorge Posada is not ready to start the season, could send a prospect to the Diamondbacks for Montero. Montero has drawn interest from the Red Sox, Giants, and Reds, among others, and it is possible the Diamondbacks might finally deal him.

In other news...

K-Rod likes Mets: Angels owner Arte Moreno informed media outlets that is time to turn the page on Rodriguez, which means they will look elsewhere. Rodriguez likes the Mets, and if there is mutual interest a deal will probably get done. The Cardinals and Indians are also interested.

Cubs won't sign Wood: Cubs closer Kerry Wood will not be back with the Cubs next season. Wood was reportedly holding out for a multiyear deal and the Cubs were only willing to go year to year. The Tigers, Red Sox, Diamondbacks, and Angels could pursue him.

Phillies interested in Burrell: The Phillies are showing some renewed interest in Pat Burrell, but only for a short-term deal. This means that they will have to pay him more annually, or he is gone. A two year deal worth 25-28 million dollars would probably get it done. The Royals have expressed interest in giving him a long-term deal, so he may be on his way out. 

Mets interested in Garland, Wolf: The Mets are showing some interest in pitchers Jon Garland and Randy Wolf hoping that they will help shape the bottom end of their rotation. Both Garland and Wolf are being pursued by smaller payroll teams who may be willing to pay them more than the Mets or Dodgers.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets "Very Serious" About Rodriguez

According to ESPN 1050 in New York, an executive with knowledge of the Mets' plans says the Mets will aggressively pursue closer Francisco Rodriguez. While the Mets may not be willing to give Rodriguez the five year deal he is looking for, it is believed they would be willing to give him a four year deal worth 60 million dollars. This way, the Mets could pay him somewhere between 10-12 million in 2009 (mostly because of Billy Wagner), and then increase his salary over time to net him 17 or 18 million dollars by the time his contract is done. 

Rodriguez is the top closer on the market and is expected to have a list of at least fifteen teams calling for his services.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets Acquire Putz

The Mets, in an attempt to rebuff their bullpen, have acquired JJ Putz in a three team deal involving the Mariners and Indians. In the deal, the Mariners receive Aaron Heilman, Endy Chavez, Mike Carp, and minor leaguers Maikel Claito, Jason Vargas, Ezequiel Carrera from the Mets as well as Franklin Gutierez from the Indians. The Indians receive reliever Joe Smith and Luis Valbuena and the Mets also get Jeremy Reed and Sean Green from Seattle. 

The Mets now have one of the best 8th and 9th inning combos, which will certainly take pressure off of some of their middle relievers who were asked to step into late inning roles last season. Mariners setup man Brandon Morrow made it known that he does not want to return to the closer role, so it is possible that the Mariners may trade Heilman and a prospect to the Rockies for Huston Street. 

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).

Mets Closing In On Lowe

According to Gordon Edes of Yahoo! Sports, the Mets are deep in negotiations with free agent pitcher Derek Lowe. Lowe, who was 14-11 with a 3.24 ERA in 34 games last season, also has an unbelievable postseason track record. I spoke with Omar Minaya down in Las Vegas and got the sense that pitching was a priority this offseason, both starters and relievers. They added two relievers, locking up the late innings and pushing back the guys who had pressure on them to close the late, important games. "Well, signing K-Rod and Putz will do exactly that," Minaya said when asked about the Mets' bullpen. "Guys like Sanchez, Pedro [Feliciano] will be able to work in roles they are comfortable with."

Adding Lowe, one of the most durable pitchers in baseball, will make for a great number two pitcher behind Johan Santana. This is a great move by the Mets.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

2009 Top 50 Free Agents Predictions: 11-20

11. Orlando Hudson, Diamondbacks

- Although Hudson has been injury-prone, he puts up great numbers when he is healthy and is a leader in the clubhouse. Several teams will be pursuing Hudson, and he has already indicated that he will likely not be returning for next season.

Prediction: Cardinals

12. Jason Giambi, Yankees

- Giambi's time in New York has been up and down and the Yankees have a decision to make within the next few weeks. The Athletics have been linked to Giambi, but several other teams might be pulled in by his big bat.

Prediction: Blue Jays

13. Milton Bradley, Rangers

- Bradley is coming off the best year of his career and will certainly look to cash in. Several teams have already said they plan to go after, and that list should only grow as players start to sign.

Prediction: Rangers

14. Brian Fuentes, Rockies

- Fuentes is the second best closer on the market and is set to cash in once Rodriguez signs. With that said, several teams will be eying him knowing that there are not too many options beyond Fuentes. It should be very interesting

Prediction: Cardinals

15. Mike Mussina, Yankees

- Mussina is coming off the best year of his career and wants to stay in New York. If Mussina indicated he wants to pitch again in 2009, the Yankees will get a deal done. It will probably have to be a two year deal, but they will get it done.

Prediction: Retire

16. Bobby Abreu, Yankees

- Abreu put up a great season with the Yankees and has recently indicated that he would like to stay in New York at a reduced price. The Yankees will likely hold onto Abreu for another year or two.

Prediction: Yankees

17. Orlando Cabrera, White Sox

- The White Sox and Orlando Cabrera had a rough relationship this season and they will not bring him back. They announced yesterday that they will move Alexei Ramirez to shortstop, further comfirming that Cabrera will not be back.

Prediction: Orioles

18. Raul Ibanez, Mariners

- Ibanez will be a sought after free agent, but since he is thirty-six, he is a fall back option to most teams. Being a lefty and strong fielder, several teams should be in on him early. However, his price may fall if teams look elsewhere before signing Ibanez.

Prediction: Mets

19. Oliver Perez, Mets

- This season was quiet a disappointment for Perez after putting up 15 wins in 2007. However, his strikeouts and ERA are right on cue so he should still be in for a fairly good deal. Teams in need of a starter with strong defenses should look at Perez as a good option, considering most scouts believe his numbers were improved by the Mets' good defense.

Prediction: Mets

20. Ben Sheets, Brewers

- Sheets has had an up and down career in Milwaukee, and the consensus is they will let him walk in an attempt to bring back CC Sabathia. Odds are no in their favor, and they risk losing both Sheets and Sabathia. We'll see what happens.

Prediction: Astros

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Yankees, Mets Interested in Sabathia

According to the NY Daily News, the Yankees and Mets are interested in free agent pitcher CC Sabathia. The Yankees have reportedly made an offer for six years worth somewhere between 145 and 155 million dollars. At this point, the Mets' offer is unknown, but it is believed to be close to Johan Santana's offer, which is a lot for the Mets to take on in the midst of an economic crisis. Obviously, his agent will try to squeeze as much money as he can out of interested teams before he has Sabathia sign, but it will be interesting to see how long this plays out.

The Brewers offer is reportedly closer to 110 million dollars, so it looks like they will probably bow out of the race. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets Release Sanchez

The Mets have released relief pitcher Duaner Sanchez, according to David Lennon of Newsday. By releasing Sanchez, the Mets only have to pay him 281,000 dollars. Sanchez put up decent numbers last year for the Mets, posting a 4.32 ERA in 58.1 innings pitched. Sanchez's work ethic may have factored into his release, as well as a drop in his fastball. Now Brewers bench coach, Willie Randolph once sent Sanchez home for laziness. 

Sanchez will likely get a look from another team, perhaps the Nationals, but he might need to throw to teams before receiving an offer.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets Targeting Lowe?

The Mets are targeting a reliable innings eater and have set their sights on veteran pitcher Derek Lowe. Lowe is probably looking for a four year deal and a team like the Mets will give it to him. He will help some of the younger Mets pitchers as well as the whole team when they hit the final stretch. The Red Sox and Yankees are expected to pursue him so he could get pricey.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Mets Interested In Pudge?

Newsday is reporting that the Mets are still interested in free agent catcher Ivan Rodriguez. The Mets are worried about current backup Ramon Castro's durability, and believe Rodriguez would better compliment the lefty Brian Schneider. Rodriguez is a great leader and would definitely have an impact on some of the Mets' young pitchers. Last season, Rodriguez hit .276 with 7 HR in 115 games for the Yankees and Tigers. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.