MLB FanHouse

Brett Myers, Phillies to Part Ways

Matt Snyder — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:35:00 EST

Filed under: Phillies, NL East, MLB Rumors

After eight seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, 29-year-old pitcher Brett Myers will reportedly be playing for a new team in 2010. According to Jim Salisbury of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Myers has been told by Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr., that he will definitely not be a Phillie next season. The report also states that Myers wasn't given a specific reason that he won't return.

Myers has spent his entire professional career in the Philadelphia organization after being selected in the first round in the 1999 draft. He went 73-63 with a 4.40 ERA and added 21 saves during his time in Philly.

Myers' time with the Phillies was marked by vast peaks and valleys. At times he looked like an All-Star-caliber pitcher and at others he was flat-out awful. He made three Opening Day starts, but also went through several demotions to the minors and to the bullpen. There were also some off-field issues, including an alleged incident of battery against his wife.

Considering Myers was a first-round pick and has had eight years to fulfill his potential, it appears he's not too shocked they Phillies decided a change was in order.

"I was just like, 'OK, thanks for putting up with my [stuff],' " Myers said. "He thanked me and wished me and my family well. "I'll miss the guys on the team and the fans who have supported me. Hopefully I'll be playing against the Phillies and when I do, I want the roughest treatment the fans can give me -- when I'm pitching. I'm an opposing player -- you have to give it to me."

Awesome. Phillies fans don't really need to be cued up to take proper care of their opposition, but it's nice to see Myers goading them anyway. Hopefully he'll catch on with another team in the NL East and they'll have ample chance to fulfill his wishes. Something tells me his 4.40 career ERA after being a first-round pick will be enough for the Philly fans to oblige.

Speaking of which, there should be a pretty good market for Myers. It's entirely possible a change of scenery would do him some good, and everyone's seen his ability (when he's on). He's still under 30, so it's not like he's past his prime. It's good to see accountability for his "[stuff]," whatever that may be. Plus, he's willing to work from the bullpen, enter a rotation or fight for a rotation spot. The guess is he won't be without a team for long.

Brett Myers, Phillies to Part Ways originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:35:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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J.J. Putz Likely to Depart New York

Matt Snyder — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:35:00 EST

Filed under: Mets, NL East, MLB Rumors

Last offseason, in an effort to bolster their ineffective late-inning relief, the Mets made a three-team, 12-player trade of which J.J. Putz was the centerpiece. Putz had previously been a very effective closer for the Mariners, but he would get eighth-inning duty for the Mets, considering they paid a hefty sum to bring in Francisco Rodriguez to close.

Less than one year later, it appears Putz and the Mets will go their separate ways. According to Ben Shpigel of the New York Times, the Mets will decline Putz's $9.1 million player option for 2010 and instead buy his contract out for a cool million -- making him a free agent.

Technically, the Mets could still bring Putz back with a different contract, but it's unlikely, considering Putz has always expressed his belief that he is a closer. With more than a handful of teams in the market for a closer, Putz won't have any trouble finding work.

The 32-year-old right-hander missed much of last season due to injury issues in his throwing elbow. In 2006-2007, his last two full seasons as a closer, Putz saved 76 games and rocked a solid 1.86 ERA and 0.81 WHIP. If he can battle back from the injuries of the past two seasons, he can be one of the better closers in the game, but he'll likely have to prove his health with a one-year contract in light of the past two seasons.

J.J. Putz Likely to Depart New York originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:35:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vicente Padilla Shot by Instructor

Tom Fornelli — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Dodgers, MLB Injuries, MLB Rumors

UPDATE: It seems that Padilla did not shoot himself, but was in fact shot by a shooting instructor. Full details here.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Vicente Padilla is back home in his native Nicaragua now his team's season has ended, and while there he's decided to do some hunting. Unfortunately for Vicente it seems his aim with a gun is a lot like his aim with his fastball. Sometimes he loses control of the thing and ends up hitting somebody.

Though this time it was himself.

Padilla was treated in a hospital on Tuesday after suffering what is being called a "minor" gunshot wound to his right leg.

[Padilla's agent Adam] Katz described the incident as a "hunting accident," saying that Padilla was grazed in his right thigh by a bullet. Katz said that Padilla spent 30 to 40 minutes at a hospital and was discharged.

"He's fine," Katz said.

News reports out of Nicaragua stated that Padilla was hurt at a shooting range. At least two news outlets reported that Padilla was accidentally shot by his "escort," who was trying to fix Padilla's malfunctioning gun.

Now Padilla is a free agent this winter, and there's no telling how this little accident may affect that. He has said he'd like to return to the Dodgers, who gave him a chance after he was released by the Texas Rangers in August. He went 4-0 with a 3.20 ERA for Los Angeles to help them get to the postseason, and he started three games in the playoffs going 1-1 with a 3.63 ERA.

Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti said that he'd have to find out the extent of the injury before making any decisions on whether or not the team will bring him back.

Whether they do or not, Padilla should just be grateful he was hunting in Nicaragua and not a night club in New York. You end up in prison when you shoot yourself there. Just ask Plaxico.

Vicente Padilla Shot by Instructor originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Derek Jeter May Have a Bridge Named After Him

Tom Fornelli — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:25:00 EST

Filed under: Yankees, MLB Rumors

New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter has achieved many things since beginning his career in the Big Apple. He's won four World Series championships -- and is only a win away from his fifth -- a World Series MVP in 2000, three Gold Gloves and is a 10-time All Star.

He's also a New York institution and Yankee legend with the likes of Mickey Mantle, Joe DiMaggio and Babe Ruth. Except there's one thing Jeter may end up with that none of those other Yankee heroes had. There are plans to have a bridge named after him in New York.

Bronx leaders have proposed naming the soon-to-be-built East 153rd Street bridge for the Yankee shortstop.

"There have been conversations at the community board, and I know the idea is being examined," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., a Bombers fan who confesses to a "man crush" on the Captain.

"It's something I am ready to support. We're moving on it."

The 512-foot-long "Derek Jeter Bridge" would span the Metro-North tracks that bisect East 153rd Street between Park Avenue and the Grand Concourse. It will cost $87 million.

So Jeter's bridge will cost less than Alex Rodriguez, CC Sabathia, Mark Teixeira and Jeter himself.

There is no word on what kind of UZR rating the bridge will have, but since it's a bridge, I doubt it will have all that much range to its left. Still, its intangibles are off the charts.

Derek Jeter May Have a Bridge Named After Him originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tim Hudson, Braves Close to Extension

Matt Snyder — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:41:00 EST

Filed under: Braves, NL East, MLB Rumors

According to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, the Atlanta Braves are near a deal that would extend the contract of 34-year-old Tim Hudson by another three years. Rosenthal cites major league sources, and one source told him it would be shocking if the extension wasn't complete within the next four days.

Hudson was once a Cy Young-type pitcher -- he finished in the top-6 three times in a four year span -- but those days are long gone. He can be a valuable part of a pitching staff, though, as he went 16-10 with a 3.33 ERA in his last full season (2007). Since then he's made just 29 starts in two seasons, due to having to undergo and come back from Tommy John surgery.

Despite the arm woes, Hudson was still productive, compiling a 3.61 ERA in 42 1/3 innings last season for the Braves.

The extension is most interesting from the standpoint of what it does to the Braves' starting rotation. We've discussed it before, but, with Hudson, the Braves would have six guys worth a spot in the rotation for 2010: Hudson, Derek Lowe, Javier Vazquez, Tommy Hanson, Jair Jurrjens and Kenshin Kawakami. I previously speculated the Braves would look to deal either Vazquez or Kawakami. Rosenthal, in his report, mentions the possibility of trading Lowe or Vazquez for a bat.

It will be interesting to see what the Braves end up doing, because they do have great pitching and are in need of a bit more offensive firepower. They finished third in the National League with a 3.57 ERA, but were held back by a lack of power. They ranked 10th in the NL in slugging percentage and home runs.

Tim Hudson, Braves Close to Extension originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:41:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Coco Crisp Unlikely to Remain in K.C.

Matt Snyder — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:13:00 EST

Filed under: Royals, AL Central, MLB Rumors

After one pretty lackluster season in Kansas City, it's likely Coco Crisp is going to be playing elsewhere next season. The Royals, who clearly need to avoid wasting money, would owe Crisp $8 million should they decide to retain his services. It would cost them just $500,000 to buy him out.

Crisp, who turns 30 this coming Sunday, batted just .228 with a .714 OPS in 49 games last season for the Royals. He also had surgery on both of his shoulders. Considering all that, there's no realistic reason for the Royals to not buy him out.

There would be a market for Crisp to find work elsewhere, even if it's not as an everyday starter from the get-go. He's not old by any stretch, and he has good speed. Of course, the last time he was an above average hitter was 2005, for the Indians. He's certainly going to have to take a pay cut.

Coco Crisp Unlikely to Remain in K.C. originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:13:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jamie McCourt Called 911 on Dodgers Owner Frank McCourt

Tom Fornelli — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Dodgers, MLB Rumors

While the Los Angeles Dodgers season may be over it appears that team owner Frank McCourt's divorce drama with his wife Jamie is going to continue for a while. The latest story being reported about the estranged couple is of Jamie calling 911 after being startled at home by Frank.

According to the police report that was filed, Frank did not attack Jamie in anyway, but rather came over to the house while she was swimming, which prompted her to make the call.

It happened Sept. 5 2009, at 10:10 in the morning. We're told Jamie was swimming in the pool of her Holmby Hills home when Frank suddenly and unexpectadly appeared. Jamie called 911, explaining that she was frightened because of previous incidents in which Frank had allegedly lost his temper and scared her.

Jamie then called the couple's private security for assistance.

By the time the LAPD responded, private security had already arrived to make sure Jamie was OK.

When cops arrived, the officers interviewed both Jamie and the couple's housekeeper -- who told police she had heard Jamie scream.

The story according to Frank's attorney is somewhat different. The couple hasn't been living together, obviously, with Jamie calling their Malibu residence home and Frank living in West Los Angeles. Frank's side of the story is that he was at his house and went out for a morning jog.

When he returned back to his house, he found Jamie swimming in the pool with her personal "security assistant" Jeff Fuller. Also, it seems that "security assistant" is the new term for "boyfriend." Jamie has been linked romantically with Fuller, whom she met while he worked as the Director of Protocol for the Dodgers.

As you'd expect, much like Jamie, Fuller no longer works for the Dodgers because he apparently forgot to read the Dodgers' protocol for sleeping with the boss' wife.

Jamie McCourt Called 911 on Dodgers Owner Frank McCourt originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jed Hoyer Likely to Be Next Padres GM

Andrew Johnson — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 18:25:00 EST

Filed under: Padres, MLB Biz, MLB Rumors, MLB Transactions

One of Major League Baseball's two general manager vacancies could be filled in the next few days. The Padres appear poised to hire Red Sox assistant general manager Jed Hoyer to replace long-time GM Kevin Towers, who was fired at the beginning of October, according to multiple outlets including the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Hoyer has been a bit of a hot property for awhile now, having interviewed for GM positions with the Pirates and Nationals in recent years, but this won't be his first general managing job.

He and Ben Cherington were named co-GMs of the Red Sox in the winter of 2006 during Theo Epstein's brief hiatus from his post running the club, and most famously helped orchestrate the deal that brought Josh Beckett to Boston.

While San Diego is not expected to make an announcement immediately, one could come in the next few days.

"We're still working on it," CEO Jeff Moorad told the Union-Tribune via e-mail Wednesday night. "We have a couple follow-up discussions scheduled for (Thursday), then are likely to move toward a decision."

Moorad took partial control of the Padres this year, agreeing to purchase the club in full from John Moores within five years, and though San Diego suffered through its second straight losing season and is cash-strapped because of Moores' ongoing divorce, the club showed promise by going 37-25 in its final 62 games.

That promise made it all the more surprising when Towers, highly respected in the industry and, at the time, the longest-tenured GM with one team, was forced out.

Hoyer is the second Epstein disciple to take the reins of a major league club, with current Diamondbacks general manager Josh Byrnes -- also hired by Moorad, who was with Arizona at the time -- being the first.

The Red Sox front office is one of the most highly regarded in the game. While the team has deep coffers, it is also known for its creative and methodical approach to building an organization. Hoyer will not have limitless resources at his disposal in San Diego, so he will have to be especially ingenious to turn the Padres into a winner again.

Jed Hoyer Likely to Be Next Padres GM originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 18:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scott Boras Gives Us a Clue on How Much Matt Holliday Will Cost

Tom Fornelli — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:07:00 EST

Filed under: Angels, Cardinals, Red Sox, Yankees, MLB Rumors

During FanHouse's marathon live chat of the ALCS and NLCS yesterday, I couldn't help but notice Scott Boras directly behind home plate as the Angels took on the Yankees in Game 3. I was informed during the chat by our own Jeff Fletcher that Boras has season tickets behind home plate at both Angels and Dodger Stadium, and he likes to show up early so he's available to the media.

Well, Boras was available Monday, and he fired his opening salvo of the Matt Holliday Sweepstakes this winter. It looks like any team that wants to sign Holliday should start their offers somewhere in the range of the eight-year $180 million that Mark Teixeira got from the Yankees last winter.

"These guys are blue-collar superstars," Boras said. "They don't hit 50 home runs, but they're complete players. They can give you something without swinging a bat."

Teixeira signed with the New York Yankees last winter, for $180 million. Boras would not say what his asking price would be for Holliday, but he made clear he considered Holliday's abilities in getting on base, hitting for power and playing superior defense similar to those of Teixeira.

"There are differences between hitters and complete players," Boras said. "Matt Holliday is a complete player.

"There is, frankly, no one like him in the market."

Well I don't know what Jason Bay did to deserve that last comment besides not sign with Scott Boras, but I think it's clear that no matter what Holliday has said, he's not going to be returning to St. Louis next season. I just don't see them paying that kind of money when they're trying to sign Albert Pujols to an extension.

As for where Holliday is likely to end up given the cost, the usual suspects come to mind. The Los Angeles Angels will probably show interest as they may be looking to replace Vladimir Guerrero, as may be the case in Boston as well should the Red Sox let Jason Bay walk. Both New York teams are likely to get involved as well, though I'm not sure how hard of a charge the Yankees will make considering the amount of money they spent on Teixeira, CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett last season.

Though if Boston is involved, the Bombers might get involved just to drive up the price.

Scott Boras Gives Us a Clue on How Much Matt Holliday Will Cost originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:07:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is Saliva the Secret to Rivera's Cutter?

Tom Fornelli — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:21:00 EST

Filed under: Yankees, MLB Rumors, MLB Video, American League Championship Series

During Tuesday's FOX broadcast of Game 3 of the ALCS, Tim McCarver referred to Andy Pettite as the "Dean of the Cutter." It was a title I found somewhat ridiculous considering that Pettite doesn't even have the best cutter on his team. No, that would belong to closer Mariano Rivera.

Rivera has booked himself a ticket to Cooperstown using his cutter to help him save 562 game in both the regular and postseason during his career, and many have wondered what his secret to throwing the pitch is. Well, there's some video from Monday's television broadcast that may have just solved that mystery.

Did Mariano Rivera spit on the ball?

He held it in his throwing hand, looked around for a second, and then spit into the direction of the ball. Was he spitting on the ball, or was he just spitting because baseball players can't go more than 10 seconds without spitting at some point? I'm just presenting the evidence to you here.

I'll let you be the judge, though according to MLB there's no evidence that Rivera spit on the ball. You know, except for that video you just watched.

If he did spit on the ball, it looks as though we're finding out all the Yankees secrets these days. I mean, we already found out where Alex Rodriguez has found all his postseason magic.

(A quick grab of ShysterBall's rear end for the video)

Is Saliva the Secret to Rivera's Cutter? originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:21:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bobby Valentine, Manny Acta, Travis Fryman Named Finalists in Cleveland

Pat Lackey — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Indians, AL Central, MLB Rumors

The Indians' managerial search has apparently whittled its way down to just three names after a round of phone interviews last week. Paul Hoynes at the Cleveland Plain Dealer is reporting that the Indians have called Bobby Valentine, Manny Acta, and Travis Fryman to Cleveland for a second round of interviews and that GM Mark Shapiro is likely to name a manager before the World Series ends.

Valentine's name is the big one that's obviously going to get people talking. He's got over 1,000 career wins and a National League pennant over his 15-year career with the Rangers and the Mets, plus a Japanese Series title in 2005 with the Chiba Lotte Marines. It's been rumored that he's made it clear there are teams he won't manage for in 2010, so presumably the Indians are a job he would want.

The other names are just as interesting to me, though. Acta was supposed to be one of the best managerial prospects in baseball when he was a coach with the Mets. His stint with the Nationals ended poorly, but he did show an ability to think about baseball in a way that would be unconventional for most managers. That might appeal to a GM like Shapiro, who's known for outside-the-box thinking in Cleveland.

Fryman played for the last of the Indians' dominant squads in the late 1990s and now manages their New York-Penn League affiliate in Mahoning Valley, Ohio. He's got considerably less name recognition than the other two names on the list, but Shapiro's familiar with his work and he must be doing something the GM likes if he works in the system and has made it this far in the process.

It's hard to imagine that Valentine isn't the front-runner here, but there certainly seem to be reasons that Shapiro would be equally interested in the other two candidates. Assuming that one of the three guys from this list is hired, we may have an answer before the World Series even starts.

Bobby Valentine, Manny Acta, Travis Fryman Named Finalists in Cleveland originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:29:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brewers Hot in Pursuit of Rick Peterson

Matt Snyder — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:55:00 EST

Filed under: Brewers, NL Central, MLB Rumors

Only the Washington Nationals had a worse team ERA than the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL this past season. Brewers' starters were the worst in the entire major leagues, sporting a pathetic 5.37 ERA. Obviously, something needs to be done for a team with such a high-powered offense, in order to remain competitive.

Thus, the Brewers are reportedly making a strong push for respected pitching coach Rick Peterson. Peterson has worked with former A's and current Brewers manager Ken Macha in the past, as he was in Oakland from 1998-2003, where he oversaw the development of All-Stars Barry Zito, Tim Hudson and Mark Mulder. He then took a job with the Mets -- which didn't turn out near as well and concluded during the 2008 season.

The Brewers lost former pitching coach Mike Maddux to the Rangers prior to 2009, and the results for both the Rangers' and Brewers' respective pitching staffs was evident. Thus, the Brewers are reportedly strongly zeroing in on bringing in Peterson to help shore up the staff -- namely the starting rotation. They appear confident the signing will take place very soon.

Despite the tumultuous ending in New York, Peterson is still known to be a solid developer of mechanics in young hurlers, so his hiring would be a good one for Milwaukee. Yovani Gallardo, the 23-year-old ace of the Brewers, has the stuff to be an elite pitcher. Manny Parra, 26, endured an awful 2009 after a promising 2008. He's far too young and has far too much talent to not benefit from the presence of a pitching coach like Peterson. Even the veterans could use a hand, as Jeff Suppan, Dave Bush and Braden Looper (after leaving St. Louis and the tutelage of Dave Duncan) were all drastically worse in 2009 than they were in 2008.

Brewers Hot in Pursuit of Rick Peterson originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:55:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rudy Jaramillo Is Leaving the Rangers

Tom Fornelli — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:44:00 EST

Filed under: Rangers, MLB Rumors, MLB Transactions

Year in and year out the Texas Rangers are one of the best offenses in baseball, routinely finishing among the league leaders in runs scored and home runs. While the players have come and gone through the door, the one constant has always been hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo.

Jaramillo has spent the last 15 seasons with the Rangers and helped mold young players into batting champions and MVPs, but after a down season for the Rangers offensively, it seems both Jaramillo and the Rangers have decided to make a change. After receiving a one-year offer from the Rangers to return in 2010, Jaramillo has decided he's going to end his time in Arlington and test the open market.

Rangers officials met with Jaramillo shortly after the season to extend the one-year offer but to also stipulate that the offense needed to improve. The Rangers ranked seventh in runs scored in the AL in 2009, but ranked 11th of 14 teams in batting average (.260) and 12th in on-base percentage (.320). There were concerns about the team's approach, particularly how often the Rangers swung at first pitches and put themselves in unfavorable hitting counts. Though the Rangers ranked in the middle of the pack in pitches per plate appearance (7th at 3.86), they had the highest percentage of first-pitch swings in the AL (31.1) last season.

During his tenure, Jaramillo has produced four MVPs (Juan Gonzalez twice, Ivan Rodriguez and Alex Rodriguez), a batting champ (Michael Young) and three home run champions (Alex Rodriguez, 2001-03).

Considering what Jaramillo accomplished during his time with the Rangers odds are that he's not going to have a hard time finding a new job with more security than a one-year deal elsewhere this winter. In fact, columnists in Chicago were already lobbying the Cubs to go after him before it was even announced he'd be leaving the Rangers.

Considering the work he's done with Alfonso Soriano and Milton Bradley while they were with the Rangers, Jaramillo could be a good fit in Chicago, though odds are they won't be the only team calling him in the coming weeks.

Rudy Jaramillo Is Leaving the Rangers originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:44:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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John Farrell Not Interested in Indians Job

Pat Lackey — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:19:00 EST

Filed under: Indians, Red Sox, AL Central, AL East, MLB Rumors

It's now ten days after the end of the 2009 baseball season and the only thing the Cleveland Indians know about their vacant managerial position is that it won't be filled by Red Sox pitching coach John Farrell. That's because Farrell, who was initially seen as a front-runner for the job, told the Cleveland Plain Dealer today that while he is interested in managing some day, he's not interested in the Indians job and he'd rather stay in his position in Boston.

As the former farm director in Cleveland under Mark Shapiro, Farrell seemed like maybe the most logical choice for the job, but this isn't the first time he's turned a managerial job down. He was believed to be the frontrunner in 2007 in Pittsburgh, where former Shapiro assistant Neal Huntington is GM, but he also asked for his name to be removed from consideration then, as well.

Farrell mentions that he has a "mutual commitment" with Boston, but since Boston granted him the right to interview earlier in the week it's hard to imagine they'd begrudge him leaving for a managerial position. It could be that he simply likes being a pitching coach or working with the current Boston staff and doesn't want to give that up right now or that he feels too much loyalty towards Terry Francona to bail on his contract. Or it could be that he just doesn't want to manage somewhere like Pittsburgh or Cleveland enough to give up his job in Boston.

It is still early in the Indians' process, so Shapiro should still have plenty of time to find a suitable candidate. The Plain Dealer says that he and his staff are currently narrowing the list down to three to five names, at which point they'll begin face-to-face interviews. There are no names named, but Bobby Valentine's name has cropped up in the past week or so.

John Farrell Not Interested in Indians Job originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:19:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Billy Wagner Talking Retirement

Tom Fornelli — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:28:00 EST

Filed under: Red Sox, MLB Rumors

After coming to the Boston Red Sox this season Billy Wagner made 17 appearances out of the bullpen and posted a 1.72 ERA. It was exactly the type of performance Wagner needed to help his chances of finding a closer's job somewhere in 2010, which is what he had been saying he wanted to do. Preferably one near his Virginia home.

Well after allowing two runs in the eighth inning of Boston's loss to end their season on Saturday, it sounds like Wagner is changing his tune. When asked about what his plans were for next season on Monday Wagner implied that he's planning to retire.

"I don't plan on talking to nobody," Wagner said, when asked where he might pitch next season.

Does that mean retirement?

"Why wouldn't I?" he said. "I've got nothing else to [accomplish]."

Which isn't entirely true as Wagner is only 15 saves shy of 400 in his career, and that is one of the reasons he gave earlier this season for wanting to return in 2010. Now Wagner says the 400 save mark is just "dust in the wind."

Though you have to wonder if it's possible that after letting the sting of being swept out of the first round of the playoffs wears off in the coming weeks, Wagner will change his mind. Which is a theory his agent Bean Stringfellow -- greatest name ever? -- echoed.

"Those comments probably came right after the Red Sox lost, so I'd bet they were said in the heat of the moment, when he was very frustrated," said Stringfellow a few minutes ago over the phone. "That's probably not the best time to take comments like that as gospel.

"That's not what Billy has told me or indicated to me about next year. That's not to say that he couldn't, but he's given me no indication that he will retire. Certainly I am moving towards him playing next year."

And there's no way a man named Bean Stringfellow would lie to you.

Billy Wagner Talking Retirement originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:28:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cleveland Wants to Interview Farrell, Houston to Interview Everybody Else

Tom Fornelli — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:36:00 EST

Filed under: Astros, Indians, MLB Rumors

While we await the winner of the last Division Series to be settled, a few teams that have already finished their season are in the process of trying to find new managers who can get them to the postseason next year. Two of those teams, the Cleveland Indians and Houston Astros, have interest in a couple of coaches from the recently eliminated Boston Red Sox.

The Indians contacted the Red Sox to see if they could interview pitching coach John Farrell as it seems Farrell is Mark Shapiro's top candidate to replace Eric Wedge. Well, Theo Epstein said that Cleveland can talk all they want with Farrell, but odds are he's going to be staying in Boston.

Boston GM Theo Epstein granted the Indians permission to talk Farrell on Monday, the day after the Red Sox were eliminated from the postseason in a three-game sweep by the Angels in the AL Division Series. The feeling, however, is that Farrell is committed to stay in Boston.

Boston GM Theo Epstein told The Associated Press that Farrell would be allowed to interview with the Indians if he wanted. Epstein added that Farrell said he would like to stay in Boston.

When Farrell was asked about the possibility of interviewing in Cleveland while at Fenway Park on Monday he said he hadn't even thought about it yet. So it looks like Shapiro is going to have to look elsewhere.

If he needs help finding some other candidates, he can just take a look at the list of people the Astros are interested in, as they apparently seem intent on interviewing everybody. Possibly even you. The Astros also received permission from the Red Sox to interview their coaches, Tim Bogar and Brad Mills, but those are only two of the many possibilities.

The Astros released the names of all 10 managerial candidates and the interview times on Monday afternoon. Interim manager Dave Clark and Astros Minor League field coordinator Al Pedrique will be the first two candidates to interview on Wednesday at Minute Maid Park.

[Ned} Yost and San Diego Padres hitting coach Randy Ready will interview Thursday, [Bob] Melvin and former Washington Nationals manager Manny Acta on Friday, [Phil] Garner on Saturday and Boston Red Sox bench coach Brad Mills and Red Sox first base coach Tim Bogar on Monday.

Houston has also contacted the Phillies about interviewing bench coach Pete Mackanin, and have gotten permission to do so, but they'll have to wait until the Phillies are done playing in the postseason before they're able to sit down with him.

Cleveland Wants to Interview Farrell, Houston to Interview Everybody Else originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:36:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bobby Valentine Could Return to Japan

Pat Lackey — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 22:36:00 EST

Filed under: MLB Rumors

Since Bobby Valentine led the Chiba Lotte Marines to a title in Japan in 2005, his name has been associated with just about every major league managerial position that's come open. For the most part, that's only been because dreaming fans want to see Bobby V. coach their team. Now, though, he's back in the States and MLB teams are falling all over themselves to try and hire him.

The thing is, the same thing is happening across the Pacific. Ken Rosenthal is reporting Sunday that the Yokohoma Bay Stars are trying to convince Valentine to go back to Japan for the 2010 season. He also reports that Valentine's not interested in going to Washington or Houston, though it's been reported elsewhere that he might be interested in Cleveland's vacant position. So while it does seem clear that Valentine's interested in managing somewhere in 2010, it's just not apparent where that might be.

Then again, just because there are only three jobs open right now doesn't mean that someone won't open a job up specifically for Valentine. The Marlins apparently entertained that idea last week and there are a lot of teams out there with worse managers than Fredi Gonzalez. Valentine isn't going to end up in a bad situation in the States (hence his disinterest in Houston and Washington) and with another Japanese team calling, it doesn't behoove a team like, say, the Mets to wait around, hoping that Valentine will be available next winter.

Bobby Valentine Could Return to Japan originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Sun, 11 Oct 2009 22:36:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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John Smoltz Wants to Remain a Cardinal, Should He Decide to Play in 2010

Matt Snyder — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 22:05:00 EST

Filed under: Cardinals, NL Central, MLB Rumors

John Smoltz completed his 21st major league season Saturday night when the Cardinals were swept out of the NLDS by the Los Angeles Dodgers. As of now, the 42-year-old hurler does not plan on it being his last.

Smoltz told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that he'll need some more time to fully evaluate whether or not he'll come back to pitch in 2010, but his initial thought is that he will.

"As of right now," he said. "I plan to."

He's holding off on making the final decision because he doesn't want to become one of "those guys" -- the ones who waffle back and forth on a retirement decision. Thus, Smoltz expects to sign late in the free-agency period, should be decide to pitch again in 2010. He'll turn 43 during the season.

He did express his desire to remain with the Cardinals, as long as the deal would be "mutually agreeable."

Smoltz has compiled a resume that will likely land him in Cooperstown five years after he decides to hang up the cleats for good. He's the only player in major league history to save more than 150 games and also collect more than 200 career wins. He's also surpassed the vaunted 3,000-strikeout barrier. He's been to the All-Star game eight times and won a Cy Young. Most of all, though, Smoltz has cemented his legacy as an all-timer in the playoffs. His career postseason record is 15-4 with a 2.67 ERA and 1.14 WHIP.

Smoltz struggled with Boston in 2009, but seemed to feel back at home in the National League when he was acquired by the Cardinals, piecing together a few solid outings. There is a little something left in the tank, but not a ton. If he does come, it's pretty likely it would be for one last hurrah.

John Smoltz Wants to Remain a Cardinal, Should He Decide to Play in 2010 originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Sun, 11 Oct 2009 22:05:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Could Rays, Pat Burrell Be Avenue for Cubs to Trade Milton Bradley?

Matt Snyder — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:50:00 EST

Filed under: Cubs, Rays, AL East, NL Central, MLB Rumors

While we're far from trading season -- the Red Sox and Angels haven't even started their ALDS -- winds are swirling in the Windy City because of the presence of resident albatross Milton Bradley. Bradley signed a three-year contract worth $30 million this past offseason with the Cubs and did everything he could during the regular season to make general manager Jim Hendry realize the signing was the biggest mistake of his tenure. Thus, the Cubs aren't exactly being secretive about their desire to trade him as soon as is humanly possible.

Might they look to another outfielder who has quickly fallen out of favor with his team after signing a lucrative deal? The Tampa Bay Rays have shown interest in Bradley in the past, and they could look to deal Pat Burrell after his disastrous 2009 season.

Of course, this situation is far too ideal for the Cubs for it to be a straight up deal. Burrell only has one more year on his contract and he makes less money, on average, per year than Bradley. The Rays aren't exactly the Yankees, so they'd have to be pretty convinced the trade would work to take on the excess salary. Plus, Burrell -- while so laid-back it comes off as apathy at times -- isn't exactly the clubhouse cancer Bradley is. Annoying teammates with a seeming lack of effort or desire is a lot different than outwardly antagonizing teammates, managers, executives, local media and fans.

So, don't expect the deal to be a straight up player-for-player swap.

Bradley had one of the worst seasons of his mercurial career, hitting .257 with 12 home runs and 40 RBI in 124 games. The .775 OPS was his worst since 2002. His defense was suspect as well, but the majority of the problems had to do with his attitude. He was suspended for the remainder of the season with 15 games left due to his constant sideshows.

Burrell also had one of his worst seasons. He set or tied career lows with 16 doubles, 14 home runs, 64 RBI, a .367 SLG and a .682 OPS. His batting average and on-base percentage were also well below his career marks. Late in the season he was involved in a locker room scuffle with team captain Carl Crawford. No details surfaced, but it should be pretty easy to connect the dots. Crawford is the most respected and longest tenured Ray, a stand-up guy who plays the game hard every single day and has no attitude issues. And now the Rays want Burrell gone.

There are multiple outlets reporting the Rays have a strong interest in Bradley and the Cubs are desperate to get Bradley out the door as soon as possible. Thus, the two sides will probably try to compromise in order to get the deal complete. Look for the Cubs to grease the wheels by eating a portion of Bradley's salary and possibly sending a prospect or two the Rays way. They might even take back a contract which the Rays wish to rid themselves as well.

The bottom line is that the Rays don't want Burrell (but like Bradley) and the Cubs don't want Bradley (and don't care how they get rid of him). It's pretty likely they find a way to make it work for both sides.

Where there's a will, there's a way.

Could Rays, Pat Burrell Be Avenue for Cubs to Trade Milton Bradley? originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:50:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fredi Gonzalez Will Be Back in 2010

Tom Fornelli — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:22:00 EST

Filed under: Marlins, NL East, MLB Rumors

Last February, Florida Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez signed an extension that would keep him in Miami until 2011, and after his team finished the season in second place in the NL East you wouldn't think there'd be any reason why the team wouldn't honor that contract. Then word broke out that the Marlins were interviewing Bobby Valentine for a position with the team, but they wouldn't say what that position was.

This fueled speculation that Gonzalez wasn't going to be back for the 2010 season, but on Tuesday sources confirmed that Fredi has nothing to worry about.

Sources have confirmed what Ken Rosenthal first reported, that Fredi Gonzalez will return as Marlins manager.

"There is nothing to that -- zero," a source told Rosenthal about rumors that Fredi's job was on the line.

An announcement from the Marlins was expected this afternoon. No word yet on the fate of the coaches.

The Marlins held an organizational meeting on Monday and team owner Jeffrey Loria was reportedly upset that the team didn't make the playoffs this season and therefore killed the whole "World Series championship every six years" theme they've had going on for a while.

It's a good thing cooler heads prevailed because Gonzalez has done a nice job since taking over the Marlins job in 2007. The team finished in last place in the division that year with a 71-91 record, but they've improved each year since despite the losses of players like Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis.

Fredi Gonzalez Will Be Back in 2010 originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:22:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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