White Sox Trade Up To Peavy

The White Sox have agreed in principle to a trade that would send former Cy Young award winner Jake Peavy to the White Sox for pitching prospect Aaron Poreda and pitcher Clayton Richard, among others. Peavy, who has a full no trade clause, must decide if he wants to play in Chicago.

Peavy could choose to accept the trade just to get out of San Diego. While he is the longest tenured player there, reporters constantly question his desire to play for the Padres. He would be joining the White Sox, where his close friend Scott Linebrink currently sets up for closer Bobby Jenks. However, he would be jumping leagues and be joining a team where he might not have as a huge of an impact. Not only that, but some people wonder if he would want to play for manager Ozzie Guillen.

UPDATE

Here is what his agent, Barry Axelrod, said: "If I had to make a bet on it, I would guess that Jake would say he's not ready to take that step today. But he wouldn't necessarily preclude it at any time in the future.''

Peavy is obviously more comfortable in the NL. The White Sox are going to really have to sell the White Sox and American League to Jake Peavy. Guaranteeing his 22-million dollar option for 2013 would be a start. I think the White Sox should consider adding incenitve based bonuses each year into his contract. Throwing more money at this might not be the best move, but giving Peavy some motivation while making him the face of this rotation might work in the White Sox favor.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

White Sox Discussing Roberts?

MASN Sports is reporting that the White Sox and Orioles are discussing a trade that would send Brian Roberts to the White Sox for Gavin Floyd. Floyd, who went 17-8 with a 3.84 ERA in thirty-three starts for the White Sox, has the makings of a top of the rotation starter. His numbers did fluctuate some towards the end of the season, but nothing that raised a red flag. The Orioles are obviously struggling to lock up Brian Roberts, so a trading him for something they desperately need would help them in the long run. Not only that, but the Orioles might be able to land one of their second baseman, considering the White Sox have a surplus of them now.

Roberts hit .296 with 9 HR in 155 games and scored 107 runs. Acquiring Roberts and making him their leadoff hitter would make them a force in the division, but it would hurt their pitching. Buehrle and Danks would man the top two spots, but they do not have much support beyond that. Lance Broadway is a question mark, but he was solid in his lone start this past season. There are pitchers available on the market for the White Sox to sign, but Roberts will make eight million next season, and it might not be in their budget. It's a tough decision for the White Sox. 

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White Sox Offseason Update

The White Sox have indicated that they will attempt to trade Javier Vazquez this offseason, despite having two years and twenty-three million dollars left on his contract. Vazquez went 12-16 this past season, but won 15 games the year before. Several teams are pursuing pitchers through trade, and may turn to Vazquez if they miss out on Jake Peavy or Scott Olsen. With that said, the Phillies could make a move for him. They have a history of trading with the White Sox and this type of trade would be no different. Other possibilities include the Dodgers, Indians, Braves, and Astros.

The White Sox announced yesterday that they will move Alexei Ramirez to shortstop next season, suggesting that they will pursue a second baseman this offseason. Joe Crede is gone, and Josh Fields is taking over, so don't expect the White Sox to go with two in-house options for 2009. They have money to spend and will likely pursue Orlando Hudson on the open market. The White Sox have been interested in Chone Figgins for a long time, and may look to include Vazquez in a deal involving Figgins. 

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White Sox Should Trade Buerhle

After White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle threw a no hitter, his price went way up. He is a Missouri native and the Cardinals have already made it known that they are interested in bringing him home. Not only did he grow up a Cardinals fan, but he turned down a three year deal, worth 33 million dollars for the White Sox last year, hinting to the Front Office that he will go after his contract is up. Buehrle, 28, will be a free agent after this season and is expected to get at least "Gil Meche money." He was the face of many trade rumors leaking out of the White Sox front office, but nothing was ever executed. He was discussed in trades all of last season with teams like the Mets, Yankees, Red Sox, Cardinals, and Rangers and there is already a little fued between Kenny Williams and Mark Buehrle, which first started at the Sox Fest in January. And if Mark Buehrle can put together another 16-17 win season, what would stop him from bolting to the market to cash in and leave Chicago where he has been mistreated? The White Sox are in need of an outfielder, and could shop Buehrle around the trade deadline for a big name outfielder. Ichiro could be available?

2009 American League Predictions

American League East

1. Tampa Bay Rays: 93-69

2. Boston Red Sox: 89-73

3. New York Yankees: 86-76

4. Toronto Blue Jays: 82-80

5. Baltimore Orioles: 73-89

The AL East is going to be a really close race, but the depth the Rays have will keep them on top the whole season. While the Yankees have strong pitching, they are more vulnerable to injuries because of their age.

American League Central

1. Chicago White Sox: 90-73

2. Minnesota Twins: 86-76

3. Cleveland Indians: 83-79

4. Detroit Tigers: 79-83

5. Kansas City Royals: 77-85

The AL Central is up in the air so it is hard to predict, but I expect strides from all teams in the Central. If the Tigers don't hold a fire sale midseason, they could pose a threat for the division. 

American League West

1. Los Angeles Angels: 86-76

2. Texas Rangers: 83-79

3. Oakland Athletics: 78-84

4. Seattle Mariners: 75-87

The Athletics and Rangers both made improvements over the offseason, but the A's young pitching and the Rangers spotty rotation still has them behind the Angels. As for the Mariners, they need to trade their veterans to bring in more young prospects. 

American League MVP: Evan Longoria, Rays

American League Cy Young: Roy Halladay, Blue Jays

American League Rookie of the Year: Matt LaPorta, Indians

American League Manager of the Year: Ozzie Guillen, White Sox

ALDS: Red Sox defeat Rays; White Sox defeat Rays

ALCS: Red Sox defeat White Sox

American League Champion: Red Sox

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).

Braves After Vazquez?

According to FOXSports.com, the Braves have engaged in talks with the White Sox about pitcher Javier Vazquez. The White Sox and Braves appear to be on the same page when it comes to the number of prospects the White Sox would receive, so all they need to figure out is who those prospects will be and how much money the White Sox would include. Vazquez, who has two years and twenty-three million dollars left on his contract, went 12-16 with a 4.67 ERA for the White Sox last season. 

If the Braves are going to trade for a pitcher, Javier Vazquez is one of the best, and will probably come at a cheap price. He will probably fair well in the National League and is very durable, so he should give the bullpen solid rest when he starts. No deal is imminent, but talks are promising thus far. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

White Sox Front Runners For Viciedo

Supposedly the next Babe Ruth (of Cuba, that is) has successfully defected from Cuba and is a free agent. Dayan Viciedo, 19, is the best Cuban position player since Omar Linares, who lead the Cuban national team. His agent, Jaime Torres, says there is a lot of interest in Viciedo, and that they would like to get him signed sooner rather than later. With that said, the White Sox are the perceived front-runners. Not only is Viciedo friends with Alexei Ramirez, but they share the same agent. If signed by the White Sox, Viciedo would probably start in the majors right away, making Chicago an even more desirable place for him. The White Sox are probably up for that, considering Ramirez is up for Rookie of the Year after hitting .290 with 21 HR. Scouts believe Viciedo could hit 30-40 homeruns, so the asking price could be rather high. I suspect a five year deal worth between 1-3 million dollars would get it done. 

The Red Sox, Athletics, Indians, Mariners, and Dodgers, among others, have all reportedly expressed interest. 

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White Sox Sign Podsednik

The White Sox have agreed to terms with free agent outfielder Scott Podsednik, FoxSports.com's Ken Rosenthal is reporting. The spot opened up when DeWayne Wise separated his shoulder in Monday's game. The Sox called up Jerry Owens for the time being but plan to give Podsednik a shot. Podsednik has 236 career stolen bases, and played a key role in the White Sox 2005 World Series run. He'll bring a solid glove to the White Sox, but probably won't hit for much of an average. 

He'll report to Triple-A Charlotte. 

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White Sox Close In On Hunter

The White Sox and Torii Hunter are closing in on a deal that could be finished by the end of the week. Hunter has met with the White Sox at least twice in the last two weeks, and it is believed the second time was to go over financial details of a possible detail. One source said that "the climate" was that a deal could get done very soon. According to MLB Rumors Correspondent Brady Yu, Torii Hunter is eager to get a deal done before Thanksgiving and plans to get something done today or tomorrow. By adding Cabrera and Hunter, they will have improved their offense and defense, and will give the White Sox the rest of the time to improve pitching. There has been no indication how much Hunter is set to make, but I would assume that it is at least a five year deal making 13-16 million dollars annually.

Brewers, Kendall Close: The Brewers are working on a deal with Jason Kendall, according to sources. The plan is to get a deal done by the end of the week in order to start shopping Johnny Estrada, maybe to the Mets or Pirates. It is possible to see Ronny Paulino brought in to platoon with Kendall, but a deal with the Mets seems more likely.

Buyers and Sellers

Here is a list of teams you should expect to buy, and a list of teams expected to sell:

BUYERS

Yankees
- Without a doubt. Losing Alex Rodriguez hurts, but what hurts even more is stating all season that they will not negotiate once he opts out. We know the Yankees are dieing to talk money with Rodriguez, but have made no indication that they actually will. Because of it, expect the Yankees to basically unload their farm system again for players Miguel Cabrera and possibly Johan Santana. I expect them to get Cabrera, and then go after a solid pitcher to help the rotation now thatPettitte is gone.

Potential Sellers: Marlins, Twins, Mariners, Rockies, and Orioles.

Rangers
- The Rangers have some solid players that are drawing interest. And the Rangers, are looking for solid upgrades around the field. They are looking to find a first baseman, while exploring the market for another infielder and center fielder. They have talked with the RedSox about a potential deal for Coco Crisp, but no real progress has been made. They are also looking into the possibility of acquiring RichieSexson from the Mariners in exchange for Vicente Padilla.

Potential Sellers: Red Sox, Mariners, Cubs, Dodgers, Braves, and White Sox.

Dodgers
- They bought Joe Torre and are already a better team because of it. They are very interested in Alex Rodriguez, Andruw Jones, Hiroki Kuroda, and even Johan Santana. Obviously, they will not get them all, but one, maybe two is a definite possibility. They have the money to spend, and will definitely be spending.

Potential Sellers: Twins, Marlins, White Sox, Cubs, Braves, and Rangers.

Giants
- The Giants have a lot of wholes to fill now that Barry Bonds has left and are already looking at possibilities such as Alex Rodriguez, Carl Crawford, andDelmon Young. All they will be selling some of their pitchers, I think there best bet is signing Rodriguez, and holding on to some of their pitchers for just a little bit longer.

Potential Sellers: Devil Rays and Phillies.

Twins
- They will probably lose both Torii Hunter and Carlos Silva and are exploring all options. They are looking at Rocco Baldelli, Coco, Crisp, and according to MLB Rumors Correspondent Steve Wilson, Felix Pie as well. Not only that, but they are exploring the possibility of trading for Jon Garland, but I doubt that will happen. Despite them trying to trade Johan Santana, more upgrades will come from buying.

Potential Sellers: Devil Rays, Athletics, and Rockies.

SELLERS

White Sox
- They can probably be considered both, but they are definitely selling right now. They are shopping their whole pitching staff in exchange for some solid prospects while looking for a suitor for JoeCrede. They are very interested in Torii Hunter, but I see them taking the trade route to find better upgrades.

Potential Buyers: Yankees, Rockies, Astros, Mariners, Dodgers, Rangers, and Braves.

Marlins
The Marlins have two solid players that they have put on the market, and they are already drawing a lot of interest. I do not expect them to tradeDontrelle Willis, but we could see Miguel Cabrera on the move. The list won't be too long because the Marlins asking price is so high, but there will be interest. Other than Cabrera, expect them to shop Anibal Sanchez, who they have had some problems with over the past year.

Potential Buyers: Yankees, Phillies, Red Sox, Dodgers, and Giants.

Athletics
The Athletics have admitted that their farm system is weak and will probably look to restock this off season. The three players that plan to trade are JoeBlanton, Dan Haren, and Dan Johnson. Blanton and Haren are already drawing interest while Johnson could easily be dumped for some low level players. I expect many teams to be interested in the two pitchers because the market is so weak, so they will probably get a lot in return.

Potential Buyers: Rockies, Mets, Diamondbacks, Cardinals, Phillies, and Reds.

If you have any others, leave me a comment and I will add them.

Benitez to Beantown? Lieber to Chicago?

After Armando Benitez pitched a scoreless inning on Sunday for the Giants, teams have started to inquire about his services. The Marlins have been interested, but talks will only continue if the Giants pay for most of his contract. Now, the Red Sox, who have an extremely weak bullpen, are interested. And the only way to keep their interest up is to keep playing him. Scouts clocked Benitez in the high 80s and low 90s; however, one scout noticed his lower half didn't seem totally right during his delivery. Benitez says he expects to be ready for Opening Day, wherever he is. "I've heard the rumors," Benitez said. "That's all right. I can't think about that. I just have to get myself ready. I know what I can do. When I'm healthy, there aren't too many people who can do what I do." Benitez, who went 4-2 with a 3.52 ERA and 17 SV, was often booed at AT&T Park and the Giants would probably have to either cover most of the salary to receive anything for him, or take a minor leaguer or two and allow the Red Sox to absorb the salary. Meanwhile, Jon Lieber appears to be the odd man out in the bullpen, with Garcia, Eaton, Moyer, Myers, and Hamels filling the spots. It would make sense for the Phillies to trade him not only to dump the 7.5 million he is owed, but because he is 36, and had his first losing record since 2002, which could show signs of aging. His velocity has slowed down as well, but he is throwing strikes and getting ground balls. The White Sox, who has recently inquired about Aaron Rowand, would try to snag Jon Lieber in the trade. Not only are the Phillies looking to trade both, but the White Sox appear more than willing to absorb the cash and offer a package of players, major and minor leaguers to acquire both. They have a very weak outfield with Brian Anderson in center, Podsednik in left, and Dye in right and it would make sense to replace Anderson with Rowand, and push Floyd to the 'pen to make room for the veteran Lieber. Phil Rogers suggests that the White Sox trade Mike MacDougal, Rob Mackowiak, and Josh Fields, along with another prospect for the pair of Phillies. Other teams that are interested in Lieber are the Cardinals, Astros, and Giants.

Offseason Day 2

Well the off-season was full of news, reports, and rumors today. It was reported by more than one source that the Red Sox have won the Daisuke Matsuzaka bidding and bid 42 million dollars. An announcement is expected tomorrow. Jose Valentin and Kaz Matsui signed with their respective teams. Valentin with the Mets and Matsui with the Rockies. Joe Girardi was named to the Yankees TV Booth. I think he is one in line to manage for the Yankees when Joe Torre is done. The Phillies and Red Sox were active in the off-season today, the Phillies offered Soriano a deal (5 yr. 73 million) and the Red Sox offered J.D. Drew a deal (terms not reported). Justin Verlander and Hanley Ramirez won the Rookie of the Year Awards. The Cubs contacted Ted Lilly's agent and told him that Lilly was one of their prime targets to join their rotation. The White Sox are shopping around some of their pitchers, they are interested in acquiring hitting. Nomar Garciaparra is still drawing interest. Garciaparra could fit at first base for the Yankees, Orioles and Indians, and the Padres are interested in signing him to play second. Finally, Dave Roberts has begun preliminary negotiations with the Brewers.

Day 2 Recap
- Red Sox posted highest big for Daisuke Matsuzaka
- Jose Valentin agreed to a one year deal with the Mets
- Kaz Matsui agreed to a one year deal with the Rockies
- Joe Girardi will be broadcasting for the Yankees this year.
- The Phillies offered Alfonso Soriano a contract
- The Red Sox offered J.D. Drew a contract
- Justin Verlander won AL Rookie of the Year. Hanley Ramirez won NL Rookie of the Year
- Cubs contacted Ted Lilly about pitching for them
- White Sox shopping around Freddy Garcia and Mark Buerhle
- Brewers began preliminary talks with Dave Roberts
- Nomar is drawing interest to play different positions (1B,3B,2B)

Source: FOXSPORTS and ESPN

White Sox Sign Colon

The White Sox and Bartolo Colon have agreed to a one year deal, according to Ken Rosenthal. Colon went 4-2 with a 3.92 ERA in seven games for the Red Sox last season, but hasn't pitched in a full season since 2005, when he went 21-8 with a 3.48 ERA with the Angels. Colon played for the White Sox in 2003, and has always been known as a competitor. His attitude is perfect for Ozzie Guillen, who can slot the veteran right hander in the four spot behind Buehrle, Danks, and Floyd. 

The deal is pending a physical. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

White Sox Option Contreras

After clearing waivers, the White Sox optioned Jose Contreras to Triple-A Charlotte to work out some command issues he has been struggling with. Contreras is 0-5 with a 8.19 ERA in six starts this season, and has made it past the sixth inning just once.

The White Sox called up Jimmy Gobble in his place.

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Fantasy: Stock Rising or Falling

The latest feature to MLB Rumors is here, and will be brought to you throughout the season to help you with your fantasy teams.

Howie Kendrick, Angels
- Kendrick was either drafted late or undrafted in several drafts that I participated in and I think owners are starting to realize that he is the real deal. He did very well in a limited role last year but he is off to a great start.
Jon Danks, White Sox
- Coming into Spring Training, I thought the White Sox were making a mistake naming him to the rotation. However, he pitched very well in Spring Training and had an excellent season debut. He could have a 'Dustin McGowan' like year in 2008.
Hiroki Kuroda, Dodgers
- Many thought Kuroda would bust to some extent like Igawa did last year for the Yankees. However, he had a great spring and dominated the Padres last night. He is someone to watch for this week.

Honorable Mention: Bill Hall, Brewers and Joe Crede, White Sox.


Eric Chavez, Athletics
The Athletics decided to not play Chavez until he was completely healthy, but he faced another setback and will likely be out even longer.

Barry Zito, Giants
Zito struggled in his season debut and saw less velocity on his fastball. Lack of run support and a poor bullpen will hurt the pitcher who already seems to be on the decline.

Juan Pierre, Dodgers
- He is not the best fantasy guy if you do not have stolen bases, but he is not playing as much as he would be. I have talked to some scouts that think it might throw him off some, bringing down his stats.

Honorable Mention: Jose Canseco.

Hudson Expected To Sign Soon?

According to Buster Olney, free agent second baseman Orlando Hudson is close to making a decision about where he will sign. The deal will likely be a one year deal, loaded with incentives. The Nationals have backed out of negotiations and the Royals are considered a long shot, leaving the Dodgers and maybe Mets as the two remaining options. However, signing Hudson means you will lose a first round draft pick, and the Dodgers probably don't want to surrender a pick to their division foe. 

While the White Sox have three potential second baseman, I wouldn't be surprised to see the White Sox make a final push. Kenny Williams likes to work under the radar, and Hudson could give the White Sox the offensive push they need at the top of the order, not to mention a solid up the middle tandem with shortstop Alexei Ramirez.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Lannan to White Sox?

The Score 670 AM in Chicago is reporting that the White Sox are close to acquiring reliever John Lannan.

UPDATE: According to Nationals beat writer Bill Ladson, the Nationals are discussing Joel Hanrahan, not John Lannan, with the White Sox. As you can see, the rumors are really flying and names are being thrown around with reckless abandon.

White Sox Make Push For Jones?

According to MLB Rumors Correspondent Shane Shapiro, the White Sox are making a big push for Andruw Jones. Although they have interest in Aaron Rowand, they prefer Jones because he is an excellent fielder and is slightly less reckless than Rowand. The White Sox had an offer ready for Torii Hunter, but since he signed with the Angels, I believe they will offer that same deal to Jones. Also, he has heard the Dodgers, Giants, Padres, and Athletics are also interested in Jones, who is seeking a multi-year deal. Jones batted .222 with 26 HR and 94 RBI, but did win a Gold Glove and put up similar power numbers to Rowand and Hunter. He is represented by Boras, so you can expect lengthy discussions and a deal probably reaching 100 million. Personally, I see the Dodgers leading the race because not only are they looking for an outfielder, but they have money to land him. Also, Jones is very good friends with former teammate and Dodger shortstop Rafael Furcal.

Park Returns to Korea: Shane Shapiro is also reporting that Chan Ho Park will void his contract that he recently signed with the Dodgers and return

White Sox Sign Jenks

The White Sox and Bobby Jenks have avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one year deal worth 5.6 million dollars. Jenks, who was 3-1 with a 2.63 ERA and 30 SV, has drawn some interest in the trade market, but sources say the White Sox are not actively shopping him. You can expect Jonathan Papelbon to be looking at a deal worth about 8-9 million dollars, my guess is around 8.-2-8.3 million dollars. 

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.