| Winter Rumblings |
|
|
|
| Written by Troy Chuinard | |
| Thursday, 08 November 2007 | |
We are a few weeks into the off-season, and the free agent market is already thinning.
When it appeared that Curt Schilling had served his last days at Fenway Park, Red Sox representatives announced that Schilling will be returning to Boston next season. The two parties agreed upon a 1-year, $8 million deal, which includes another $3 million in incentives. Undoubtedly one of the hottest pitching free agents on the market, the acquisition of Schilling by Boston only means that some of the other hard-throwing superstars looking for contracts will receive even more money. Among these players are former Minnesota Twin Carlos Silva and Josh Fogg of the Colorado Rockies. Reports are also indicating that World Series MVP Mike Lowell is looking to ink a deal that will bring him back to Fenway Park next year. Red Sox General Manager Theo Epstein claims that he has been pushing all the buttons to try and lock up Lowell, who put up a franchise-best (among third basemen) 120 RBI’s last season. The presence that Lowell brings to the clubhouse is considered irreplaceable, and it looks as if he will be serving at the hot corner for Boston when the 2008 season arrives. There is also much speculation that the 300-game-winning Tom Glavine will be returning to Atlanta next season. Glavine has stated on numerous occasions that he wants to retire with the organization that built his character. Considering that Glavine pitched in Atlanta for 16 years and that he makes a living in a nearby suburb, it would only make sense for him to listen to any offers that the Braves propose. However, after finishing 13-8 with a 4.45 ERA in 2007, it might be difficult for the two parties to reach a mutual agreement. Speaking of veterans, Greg Maddux has agreed to a 1-year deal with the San Diego Padres worth roughly $10 million. Unquestionably one of the greatest pitchers to step on the field, Maddux also recorded his 17th Gold Glove Award earlier last week. This number sets a milestone in MLB history, as no other player has been awarded Gold Glove Honors on 17 separate occasions. As a crafty veteran, Maddux has found that he can still contribute in the pitcher-friendly PETCO Park. Will 2008 be the last year that the Madd-Dogg steps foot on the hill? The New York Yankees have confirmed that they are looking to bring back the slugging catcher Jorge Posada as well as their former closing piece, Mariano Rivera. The Yankees will no doubt need all of the superstars that they can acquire considering it will be the first year that the team will be managed under new skipper Joe Girardi. Andy Pettitte has already declined his $16 million option with the organization, making their pitching rotation even more questionable for 2008. As for Alex Rodriguez? Recent reports have indicated that the Los Angeles Angels have shown plenty of interest in the slugging third-baseman. However, it will definitely take some time for a deal to pan out since agent Scott Boras is in no hurry to make any commitments. It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Angels’ cross-town rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, make a push as well. Hopefully more off-season questions will be answered in the near future.             |
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|