Do The Tigers Have The Best Starting Pitching In Baseball?

By David
Kaye

After guiding their team to a World Series berth, what will the Tigers starting pitchers do for an encore? Will their young pitchers continue to improve and can Kenny Rogers still lead the staff at 42 years young?

After leading the league in ERA [4.00] last season I believe that there will be a slight drop in performance for the starter's, but that fall will only be marginal. Still, one of the main things going for Detroit is age. Four out of their five starters are 29 or younger. Currently, the AL Champion Tigers have the second best starting rotation in all of baseball.

42-year old Kenny Rogers continues to shock the baseball world as he improves with age. Since turning 39, Rogers has won 49 games. This is more wins than he had in his first five seasons in Texas combined. If Rogers can win another 15 games this year the Tigers will be in excellent shape.

Justin Verlander, last years Rookie of the Year, is a star in the making and will pitch better than he did last season. Likewise, right-hander Jeremy Bonderman continues to improve season after season. He has won at least 14 games the last two years and struck out over 200 batters for the first time in his career last season. The 24-year old is also coming off of a very impressive postseason.

Lefty Nate Robertson is coming off of his best season in the majors. He posted 13 wins and had a stellar 3.84 ERA. He is a pitcher who possess great talent and fits in nicely in the Tigers starting rotation.

Mike Maroth will be slatted in as Detroit's fifth starter this season. The Orlando native is coming off of a disappointing 2006 campaign where he suffered from elbow pain. He only won five games last year and will be counted on heavily in the back end of the rotation. If he can remain healthy the Tigers will be able to capitalize on their 2006 success.

Tigers, Red Sox's, Dodgers, Phillies and Marlins - Best Starting Pitching In Baseball?

By David
Kaye

The Tigers, Red Sox's, Dodgers, Phillies and Marlins all have potent starting rotations, but who has the best? Is it the young arms of the Tigers or Marlins, depth of the Red Sox's and Dodgers, or the revamped staff of the Phillies?Each day this week I will make a case for every team and then evaluate who's starter's are number one.

The Red Sox's possess baseball's best starting rotation, but at any time that can change. Boston comes into this season with six starter's, four potential aces, two new guys in the rotation and a plethora of expectations.

Boston spent $103.1 million on right-hander Daisuke Matsuzaka and he is expected to wow the baseball world with the array of pitches that he throws. If he pitches even close to expectations, the Boston fans will be in for something special.

After having an outstanding season as Boston's closer, Jonathan Papelbon will join the starting rotation. The key for him this year is to remain healthy because he suffered from a tired shoulder towards the end of last season. Still, if Boston can't find a closer Papelbon will be back to doing what he did last season. Granted, he posted a ridiculous o.92 ERA last year and converted on 35 save opportunities.

Josh Beckett, 26, is coming off of a 16 win season, but he won those games by posting a 5.01 ERA, surrendering 74 walks and giving up the second most home runs [36]. Beckett will be in his second season as a member of the Red Sox's and the team is hoping that he is now adjusted to AL hitters and is ready for a strong season.

Knuckleballer Tim Wakefield has been a staple in Boston's starting rotation since 1995 and has started at least 15 games every season. There is still the uncertainty of where he might fit in when John Lester returns to the rotation. Will Papelbon then become the closer if the job is still open or will Wakefield be shifted to the bullpen? Still, Tim throws a devastating knuckleball that is extremely hard for batters to hit.

Lefty Jon Lester is the wild card in the Red Sox's rotation. He suffered from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma last season, but his cancer is luckily in remission. In 15 games last year, Lester won 7 games, but did post a 4.76 ERA. One of the main things going for him is that he's the lone left-hander on the staff and it would be a sure fire thing that manager Terry Francona will find room for him somehow.

Curt Schilling is the ace of the Red Sox's pitching staff, but at 40 years of age how much left does the future Hall of Famer have? He will be entering his fourth season as a member of the Red Sox's and he is gunning for his second World Series ring with the team. Despite winning 15 games last year, Schilling surrendered 28 home runs and 220 hits in 204 innings of work. He should probably win another 15-16 games this season and if he does he would pass the likes of Vida Blue and Don Drysdale on the all-time list.

Getting To Meet ESPN's Tim Kurkjian at Cardinals Spring Training

By David
Kaye

As I was minding my own business watching the Cardinals workout I happened to see ESPN's own Tim Kurkjian walking by. Tim is both a reporter for Baseball Tonight and a senior writer for ESPN The Magazine. Most importantly as I learned, he is a great person.

I was shocked to see one of the people that I love watching on ESPN at the same spring training camp that I was at. I quickly sprinted over and screamed out his name. He abruptly stopped and we struck up a conversation for the next five minutes.

After receiving Tim's autograph, I began to pick his brain about the upcoming season. He told me that he predicted a Mets vs. Yankees World Series, that the Brewers and Indians will be the two surprise teams if they can remain healthy, that Arizona's shortstop Stephen Drew will have a strong season, that it will be immensely difficult for the Cubs to go from 96 losses to 96 wins and much more.

Tim went on to say that he doesn't believe San Diego can duplicate the success they had last year and that the Dodgers are the class of the NL West. Tim concurred with me that the Phillies are vastly improved from last season and just like the Padres, Minnesota will not enjoy the same success that they did last year.

Lastly, I asked Tim if there was a player who would surprise the baseball world like Ryan Howard did last season and he replied that there will be many great players who do well, but no one can have the MVP season that Howard did.

It was a great honor to meet a recognizable and distinguished sports journalist like Tim Kurkjian and I hope to meet more people as I continue my journey through spring training.

Cabrera gets just what he wants- MiamiHerald.com

This is a well written article because it explains the process of arbitration and goes into detail about what the ramifications of this ruling could mean for the long-term future of Miguel Cabrera in a Marlins uniform.

Miguel Cabrera was awarded a $7.4 million salary in arbitration

from the Marlins, who offered $6.7 million.

BY MIKE PHILLIPS
mphillips@MiamiHerald.com

JUPITER - Miguel Cabrera 1, Marlins 0.

Well, actually it was a little more. Cabrera was awarded $7.4 million by winning his arbitration hearing with the Marlins, who wanted to pay the National League's second-leading hitter from last season $6.7 million in 2007.

It was the third-highest amount awarded in an arbitration case. Outfielder Alfonso Soriano lost his arbitration hearing last year against the Nationals and settled for $10 million, and Braves center fielder Andruw Jones was awarded $8.2 million in 2001.

A panel of three arbitrators listened to both sides Friday in Arizona and handed down their decision Saturday afternoon. Cabrera would have been the Marlins' highest-paid player regardless of the decision. Pitcher Dontrelle Willis' $6.45 million salary this season is second-highest.

The bigger question is how much did it really cost the Marlins? The Marlins were not only upset with Cabrera when he failed to show up at the team's FanFest last Saturday, but Marlins president David Samson was vocal about it.

Many teams try to avoid arbitration by offering multiyear deals because of the fear of bad blood between player and management. During Dave Dombrowski's tenure as the Marlins' general manager and president, the team had only one arbitration hearing in 10 years -- Charles Johnson in 1998. They had two arbitration cases this year.

That backfired on the Marlins in 2001, when several players were given multiyear deals that proved to be too expensive for the production on the field.

Cabrera, 23, has three years and 101 days of big-league experience and will be eligible for free agency after the 2009 season. It is uncertain if he will have a future with the Marlins at that point. Management hopes there are no lingering effects from the arbitration hearing, which came less than a week after the FanFest incident.

''The FanFest is old news,'' Marlins general manager Larry Beinfest said.

``It's mutually exclusive from this [arbitration].

``I don't believe there's any bad blood at all. We're respectful of the process. I have a good relationship with Miggy.''

Pitchers and catchers were scheduled to report Saturday, and many of the Marlins' position players showed up early. Beinfest said he expects Cabrera to report to spring training on time for the team's first full-squad workout Wednesday.

Beinfest said Cabrera would ``be here on Monday, get a physical on Tuesday and be ready Wednesday.''

Cabrera received got the highest signing bonus for a 16-year-old undrafted free agent in 1999 when the Marlins gave him a then-record $1.8 million bonus. He reached the big leagues in 2003 and has been one of the best bargains.

Because ownership controls salaries during the first three years of a player's career, Cabrera made only $472,000 last year while batting .339, with 26 home runs and 114 RBI. This was his first year of arbitration eligibility, and he became the first player to win a hearing this year. Owners had been 4-0.

In arbitration, each side presents a number and there is no compromise -- just a winner and a loser.

''The arbitrators decided his way, and that's the way the process works,'' Beinfest said. ``We had budgeted either for a loss or a win. Miguel is a great player. He's up in the elite-type players. He's one of the elite first-time players ever.

``We're respectful to the process and welcome him into camp. . . . We move on.''

My Experience from Cardinals Spring Training

By David
Kaye

2007 is the first year that I can say I attended spring training for a World Series Champion. The St.Louis Cardinals are the team, and on Saturday I made my way over to the Cardinals side of Roger Dean Stadium after meeting a plethora of Marlins players.

Unfortunately, it was noon time and practice was winding down. I figured that it would be to late to take the trolley over and I might as well stand by the teams parking lot in the hopes of acquiring a few autographs.

I stood there patiently with 5-6 other fans who were awaiting the arrival of the players. 12:15, 12:30 and 12:45 ticked by without any Redbird leaving the parking lot. Finally, Albert Pujols approached us in his Cadillac, but instead of stopping he quickly drove away.

It wasn't a surprise that baseball's best player didn't stop because he has gained the reputation from many autograph seekers to be selfish and to ignore fans. The one thing that ticked me off the most was that there was four, yes four measly fans standing there waiting for his autograph. It might have taken him a minute at the most to roll down his window and sign four baseballs. That impression of Pujols will stay with me until I see his behavior reform.

Luckily, the majority of players stopped for the fans. The first person to sign was outfielder Skip Schumaker and following him were Yadier Molina, Anthony Reyes, Josh Kinney, Josh Hancock, Ricardo Rincon, Adam Wainwright, Chris Carpenter, Eli Marrero and pitching coach Dave Duncan.

Unfortunately, Dave's son Chris sped away in his Cadillac, and following him in that process were Aaron Miles and Mark Mulder. Manager Tony La Russa was busy and did not sign, but he has gained the reputation for being a very nice person.

Many of the Cards players including Josh Hancock, Josh Kinney, Adam Wainwright and Chris Carpenter were especially nice. Carpenter receives the award for nicest Cardinal, but Wainwright is not far behind.

He came off as being a very kind young man and a player who will go the extra mile to do something nice for a fan. Carpenter, the ace of the Cardinals staff, was one of the last people to leave, but not only did he sign my baseball, he took a picture with me.

I was very surprised that the best pitcher in the National League could be so approachable and it seemed like he was just another player on the team. I hope that his teammate Albert Pujols could learn a few lessons from him in the hospitable category.

I can't wait to attend Cardinals spring training later this week as the rest of the position players will be there.

My Experience from Marlins Spring Training

By David
Kaye


I returned from Jupiter, Florida two hours ago and while ArtiGras was taking place just a few blocks away, I was attending Cardinals and Marlins Spring Training at Roger Dean Stadium.

I arrived at approximately 10:30 A.M. to see many Marlins Pitchers begin to file in. Today was the day for pitchers and catchers to report, but many players including Dontrelle Willis have been at the complex for a few days.

I had attended Cardinals Spring Training last season but never have I had the opportunity to check out the Fish. Temperatures might have been in the low 50's, but the sun was beaming down and I was ready to snag a few autographs.

To my surprise, I received a plethora of signatures and through this experience I began to learn how amiable many of the players are. The first person to sign was starting pitcher Anibal Sanchez, but that was followed by Josh Johnson, Mike Jacobs, Dan Uggla, Miguel Olivo, Dontrelle Willis, Renyel Pinto, Reggie Abercrombie, Eric Reed, Joe Borchard, Josh Willingham and manager Fredi Gonzalez all coming over graciously to sign for the 10-15 fans who were stationed with me.

The ace of the pitching staff Dontrelle Willis greatly shocked me because he stood there for a good 15-20 minutes signing for any fan who wanted to meet him. You would think when you're such a high profile pitcher you wouldn't be so nice, but that wasn't the case with Willis. He receives the award for nicest Marlin.

It was a fantastic experience from Marlins camp and I look forward to going back later in the week to meet more players.

My Experience from Baltimore Orioles Spring Training

By David
Kaye

As I took Tri-Rail[South Florida's train system] down to Ft.Lauderdale yesterday I was filled with anticipation. This would be my first visit to O's camp and even though only pitchers and catchers were there I knew it would be a terrific experience.

Unfortunately, it was a gloomy day with highs only in the mid 50's and off and on showers. As I entered Ft.Lauderdale Stadium I was greeted by a kind elderly man who handed me a team roster, pocket schedule and pamphlet about ticket information.

The stadium was pretty empty with about 20-30 fans watching the team work out. Starting pitchers Daniel Cabrera and Adam Loewen got their work in and then it was time for several relief pitchers including closer Chris Ray to work out. After they were done pitching, the players grabbed bats and worked on bunting.

At O's camp, the fans are very close to the players and this permits for easy access to receive autographs. Chris Ray, Ramon Hernandez and Paul Bako were nice enough to come over, but it would be later in the day when I acquired the bulk of my autographs.

I discovered that the key to snagging autographs is to wait patiently by the players parking lot, and as they exit the majority of them will role down their windows to sign for the fans. I happened to be one of 7-8 eager fans who were standing and waiting for the players to come out.

In the 60-90 minutes that I was out there, I was able to receive the signatures of John Parrish, Jamie Walker, Daniel Cabrera, Erik Bedard, Ramon Hernandez[for the second time], first base coach Sam Mejias, third base coach Juan Samuel, manager Sam Perlozzo and pitching coach Leo Mazzone.

Unfortunately, the only players who were outright rude were relievers Danys Baez and Chad Bradford who sped away without stopping to sign a few baseballs. I was also able to see pitcher Steve Trachsel step onto the field for the first time as a Baltimore Oriole.

The majority of the players were very nice, but Paul Bako receives the award for nicest Oriole because he stood there signing autographs for a good 10 minutes.

I look forward to going back to O's camp next week when the entire roster will be present.

MLB Commissioner "Bud" Selig's Speech At Fox Sports Baseball Lunch - Part One and Part Two

This is a video I develped and edited after attending this event. It's divded into two parts of the full speech of MLB Commissioner Alan H. "Bud" Selig, before the San Francisco Bay Area media at the Fox Sports Net Bay Area Annual Baseball Season Kickoff Luncheon on Thursday, February 8th, 2007.

The Commissioner gave a wide ranging talk starting on the success of major league baseball in attendance, and reporting that baseball has 22 new stadiums, but is interested in seeing teams like the Oakland A's get new facilities, soon.

I recommend turning the sound way up, because The Commissioner has the habit of turning his head away from the mic as he talks, thus making it hard to understand what he's saying at first listen.

In Part 2, we hear the Commissioner explain that in 10 years, we will not recognize baseball because it would have spread internationally. He points with pride to the success of the World Baseball Classic as a picture of the sport's future, even though he was initially nervous that it would not do well.

Then the Commissioner revisits the steroids subject, assuring that the game is just fine and that Barry Bonds will be treated just like any other record-breaking player, should he shatter the home run record.

Finally, the second video also covers most of the question-and-answer session that followed, feauring a very long question asked by KNBR radio's Ralph Barberi and notable because his agression in asking the question and his follow-up questions which pissed off a number of patrons. (I'm sorry, but there's no other way to put it.)

Ralph's concern was if baseball would let a player into the Hall of Fame that had tested positive for steroids, or was believed to have used them. But the question came as more of a long speech, followed by two other questions he asked without the aid of a mic. The Comissioner's eventual response was that who gets in to the Hall of Fame was the decision of the Baseball Writers Asssociation and not him.

The video contains some titles to help you understand what the Commissioner is saying. Use this video set as a guide to determine the consistency of his answers as the baseball season wears on.

Here's Part One:



Part Two:

Report: Time Warner sells Braves- MLB.com

MLB must approve purchase by Liberty Media Corp.
By Mark Bowman / MLB.com

ATLANTA -- After a year of negotiations, it appears Liberty Media Corp. has agreed to terms on a deal to purchase the Braves from Time Warner Inc.

By Monday night, The Wall Street Journal and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution had both reported that they received confirmation of the deal.

When first reporting the transaction, The Wall Street Journal indicated that Time Warner would transfer the Braves, a selection of craft magazines and $1 billion in cash to Liberty Media in exchange for 60 million shares of Time Warner stock.

Major League Baseball must approve the transaction before it can become official.

"This is a very complicated deal that will take baseball some time to review and consider," Braves chairman and team president Terry McGuirk said in an interview Monday night with the Journal-Constitution. "Until we hear back from baseball, there is nothing further to do."

As negotiations went on for nearly an entire year, some got the feeling that the transaction wouldn't be completed. But in mid-January, one top Braves official indicated that a deal was imminent.

Because of a new federal tax law, Liberty Media wants to complete the deal by the middle of May. According to a Braves source, not doing so could cost Liberty hundreds of millions of dollars.

Bob DuPuy, MLB's president and chief operating officer, said on Tuesday that the deal hasn't even gone to the ownership committee yet, which must vet and approve the transaction before it is submitted for a final vote of the collective owners. The next quarterly owners meeting isn't until May.

"This is just the first step," DuPuy said.

According to the Journal-Constitution report, inclusion of an operating asset -- the Braves -- in the deal can make the transaction tax-free. This would allow Liberty to save hundreds of millions of dollars in capital gains tax on the appreciation of its Time Warner stock.

McGuirk and other Braves officials have indicated that this purchase won't cause major changes in the management structure.

"My enthusiasm for this deal is the transparent way in which it will affect current Braves management," McGuirk told the Journal-Constitution. "The expectation is that the entire structure of management will stay in place. [General manager] John Schuerholz and [manager] Bobby Cox and everyone else who operates the Atlanta Braves will operate no differently, and that'll be the magic in this deal."

Several sources have indicated that Major League Baseball won't approve the deal unless there is assurance that McGuirk will continue to run the club in the same capacity. According to The Wall Street Journal report, Liberty Media's decision to transfer 60 million shares would drop their stake in Time Warner from 4 percent to approximately 2.6 percent.

Time Warner announced its intentions to sell the Braves in December 2005. Within two months, it became apparent that Liberty Media had definite interest in obtaining ownership.

Mark Bowman is a reporter for MLB.com. MLB.com national reporter Barry M. Bloom contributed to this story. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

Crushing blow to the Orioles: Kris Benson out indefinitely with torn rotator cuff

By David
Kaye

Just when you though Baltimore had enough pitching problems they suffered an immense blow to their starting rotation. It was reported today by FoxSports.com and the Associated Press that righty Kris Benson is expected to miss the entire season with a torn rotator cuff.

Benson suffered from tendinitis in his pitching elbow last season, but he still managed to go 11-12 with a 4.82 E.R.A. Benson has been in the league for seven years and has spent time with the Pirates, Mets and Orioles. There was a tremendous amount of expectations for him this year as he was supposed to be an intricate part of the O's rotation.

Now Baltimore will have to count on left-hander Erik Bedard to lead the staff. Bedard, 27, had a strong 2006 campaign as he went 15-11 with a 3.76 E.R.A. The Orioles will most likely look to 22-year old Hayden Penn to fill the spot of Benson. Luckily for the O's, they have one of the best pitching coaches all-time in Leo Mazzone to help them out.

I look forward to going to Orioles spring training next week in Ft.Lauderdale and seeing players such as Miguel Tejada, Melvin Mora and Ramon Hernandez.

The end of an era in the Bronx

By David
Kaye

Bernie Williams, a staple in the Yankees lineup since 1991, will not be headed to Spring Training this season with New York. As a result of a congested outfield, there is no room on the Yankees roster for the 16-year veteran.

The best that New York could offer him was a non-guaranteed Minor League contract, but Bernie was not enticed by the proposal. Williams has only played for the Yankees during his illustrious big league career, but it seems that he will be moving onto another organization.

The five time all-star told reporters ''I think if they wanted me, they probably would have signed me already.'' That estimation is probably true, but it's still difficult to imagine Bernie not wearing pinstripes.

Last season there was speculation that he might not sign with the Yankees, but he made the team and produced exceptionally well. In 131 games, he batted .281 with 12 home runs and 61 RBI's. The leadership that he brought to the clubhouse will be greatly missed. Bernie was the type of player who was popular with the fans, did not cause trouble and went out and performed every night. He was the quintessential teammate to have. Now, another team will greatly benefit from his services.

Even if he struggled during the regular season, it was a guaranteed fact that he would come through in the playoffs. Williams will leave the Yankees as ''baseball's all-time leader in postseason home runs [22] and RBI [80].''

Bernie also ranks very high on the Yankees all-time leaders list. He is fifth in games played, third in at bats, fifth in runs, fourth in hits, second in doubles, sixth in home runs and sixth in RBI.

Bauer passes away at 84- MLB.com

Former Yankee was part of seven World Series title winners
By Bryan Hoch / MLB.com

NEW YORK -- Hank Bauer, a key component of seven New York Yankees World Series championship clubs, died Friday after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 84.

Bauer played 14 seasons in the Major Leagues from 1948-61, his first 12 with the Yankees. A three-time All-Star outfielder, he batted .277 with 164 home runs and 703 RBIs in 1,544 games, and helped the Yankees to nine American League pennants.

"Hank Bauer is an emblem of a generation that helped shape the landscape of our country," Yankees principal owner George Steinbrenner said in a statement.

"He was a natural leader and a teammate in every sense of the word, and his contributions went well beyond the baseball field. His service to the Yankees, his country, and his family shows why I have been so privileged to call him a friend."

A strong runner and fielder with a powerful arm, Bauer became an accomplished Major League manager after his playing career. He earned Manager of the Year honors at the helm of the Baltimore Orioles in 1964 and 1966, including one World Series title.

Bauer was traded to the Kansas City Athletics as part of a deal that brought Roger Maris to the
Yankees prior to the 1960 season. While Bauer's association with the club ended, his friendships with many Yankees teammates endured for decades.

"I am truly heartbroken," Yogi Berra said. "Hank was a wonderful teammate and friend for so long. Nobody was more dedicated and proud to be a Yankee, he gave you everything he had."

Bauer guided the Kansas City Athletics in 1962 and 1963, then moved on to spend five years with the Orioles before finishing his managerial career with Oakland in 1969. In eight seasons as a big-league manager, Bauer compiled a record of 594-534.

The youngest of nine children, Bauer was born to a blue-collar background in East St. Louis, Ill., and went on to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps. Battling malaria in the South Pacific, Bauer earned 11 campaign ribbons, two Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts in 32 months of combat.

His gruff military background translated to his playing career, which delivered him to the Yankees for a 1948 debut.

As a tough presence in the clubhouse, Bauer is said to have chastised a young Mickey Mantle for not running out a ground ball, yelling, "Don't fool with my money" -- a reference to the regularity with which Bauer cashed Yankees World Series checks.

Indeed, many of Bauer's most memorable moments with the Yankees came in October. Bauer contributed a game-saving catch to rob the Giants' Sal Yvars in the 1951 Fall Classic, and set a World Series record with a 17-game hitting streak from 1956-58.

"Maybe I bore down a lot more in the Series," Bauer told the Kansas City Star. "I had my luck. I had my good days and bad ones. I played for the right organization."

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

Bronson Arroyo receives a two-year contract extension from the Reds

By David
Kaye

After an impressive 2006 campaign, Bronson Arroyo was given a two-year contract extension, worth $25 million. He will remain a Red through the 2010 season and there is a team option for the following year.

After being acquired via a trade with Boston, the 29-year old right-hander had the best year of his career. He went 14-11 last season with a 3.29 E.R.A. Arroyo also lead the league with 240.2 innings pitched.

Arroyo's contract extension comes two days after teammate Aaron Harang signed a four-year deal with the team. Arroyo and Harang create a formidable one-two duo that will be able to compete with just about any teams offense. By locking up both players through at least the 2010 season, owner Bob Castellini is telling Cincinnati fans that he is committed to winning.

The Yankees surpass 3M ticket sales mark- MLB.com

The Yankees continue to prove why they are the elite franchise in MLB. Ticket prices might be extremely expensive, but the aggregate demand for tickets increases every season.

Club one month ahead of sales schedule from a year ago
By Bryan Hoch / MLB.com

NEW YORK -- Games at Yankee Stadium are in greater demand than ever, as the organization has already surpassed the three-million-tickets-sold mark for the 2007 season.

Club chief operating officer Lonn Trost said Friday that the Yankees shattered their previous record for reaching the three-million milestone, set last March 2.

"It's kind of amazing," Trost said. "We're a month ahead of last year. Hopefully, the fans like the product we're putting on the field, and the fun they have coming here.

"It's a great place to watch a game. There are 162 games left, and you've got to be here to see it before we move into an even greater stadium."

A variety of ticket plans and options in all price ranges are available, including purchasing online at yankees.com.

Of the three million tickets sold, Trost noted that the Yankees have already sold in excess of 33,100 season tickets. In 2006, the Yankees completed the season with 33,682 season-ticket holders.

"We're really doing well, but we still have loads of great tickets to sell," Trost said.

While nearly every game at Yankee Stadium has already sold more than 30,000 seats, Trost said even premier games against the Boston Red Sox and New York Mets are still available to fans who want to experience the next-to-last season at the current facility.

Fans who arrive in the Bronx for the Yankees' home opener on April 2 against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays will also be able to check out the progress on the new facility, being constructed just to the north of the Yankees' current home between 161st and 164th streets, and between Jerome and River avenues.

Trost reported that concrete is being poured at the new stadium site, and in some locations, workers are already up to the second deck in poured concrete. Within 60 days, the structural steel phase of the project is expected to begin, and progress is on schedule.

"Anybody who comes to the stadium starting Opening Day will see an unbelievable sight when they see how much has been built already of the new stadium," Trost said.

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

Kerans, Washington avoid arbitration and agree to a new long-term contract

By David
Kaye

The Nationals and OF Austin Kearns agreed on a three-year contract extension, worth $16.5 million. There is a club option for the 2010 season that would pay the 26-year old $10 million.

Kearns was acquired via a trade back in July with the Reds and in 63 games with the Nats he batted .250 and belted 8 home runs. In 4.5 seasons in Cincinnati, Kearns never lived up to their high expectations. He is a player with a good amount of power, but he has yet to hit more than 24 home runs or drive in 86 rbi's in a full season. Maybe he needed a change of scenario, but wherever he goes there will always be a great amount of pressure put on his shoulders to perform.

Team president Stan Kasten said ''we are eager to invest in long-term building blocks'' and Kearns will definitely be part of the long-term project that Washington has in mind. When you look at the Nationals roster, they have a plethora of young players.

Their infield consists of the reigning NL Rookie of the year Ryan Zimmerman, shortstop Cristian Guzman who has not played in the big leagues since 2005, second basemen Felipe Lopez who came over from the Reds with Kearns and first basemen Nick Johnson who in my estimation is turning into one of the best first basemen in the NL. Catcher Brian Schneider won't scare you offensively, but he calls a good game from behind the plate.

The real conflict for the Nationals is their starting pitching. This will be the major reason why the Nats don't reach the playoffs this season. Their ace John Patterson is a solid young pitcher, but he only played in eight games last season. Fourth and fifth starters Michael O'Connor and Shawn Hill combined to pitch in 27 games last season. Both men combined only won four games.

Jerome Williams and Tim Redding, who can be called the veterans of the staff because they have 11 years of big league service between them, are not that impressive either. Redding didn't pitch last year and Williams did not muster up a win last season. Redding has also not won a game since 2004 when he pitched for the Astros.

It's a serious problem to have such a shaky starting rotation when you are hoping to compete in the NL East. It's unfortunate because they have one of the best closers in baseball in Chad Cordero. It will be another long season for the Washington Nationals, but many young players will gain valuable playing experience.

Bonds signing appears imminent-MLB.com

At 42, it remains to be seen how productive Barry Bonds will be this year. Barry should have no problem breaking Hank Aaron's illustrious home run record later this season, but it will be interesting to see if he can lead his Giants back into the playoffs.

Outfielder in San Francisco on Monday for physical
By Barry Bloom / MLB.com

NEW YORK -- Nearly two months after the San Francisco Giants agreed in principle to re-sign left fielder Barry Bonds for the 2007 season, complicated language in the contract has apparently been completed.

"We're getting closer," said Jeff Borris, Bonds' agent, without getting into details.

Pending passing of a requisite physical, the official signing of the one-year, $16 million deal, which would return Bonds to the Giants for a 15th season, is expected to be announced within days.

A Giants spokesman declined to comment, saying only that the announcement of the signing was not expected on Monday. But it is now evident that, barring any physical problems, familiar No. 25 will be back in the cleanup spot this season as Bonds continues his pursuit of Hank Aaron's Major League all-time home run record.

Borris said that Bonds is in good physical condition.

According to The Associated Press, Bonds was in San Francisco on Monday to take that physical. He had surgery to remove bone chips from his left elbow at the conclusion of the 2006 season and is fully recovered from the trio of arthroscopic surgeries on his right knee that shortened his 2005 season to 14 games.

Bonds earned $18 million in 2006, the last of a five-year, $90 million contract.

Bonds goes into 2007 with 734 homers, 21 behind Aaron's magic 755. Bonds hit his 715th to pass Babe Ruth for second place on the all-time list on May 28 at AT&T Park against the Rockies.

The Giants, who have agreed to sign 10 free agents this offseason, had trouble closing the deals with all of them because of guarantee language in the contracts that their representatives found objectionable.

John Boggs, the agent for outfielder Dave Roberts, who agreed to move from San Diego, said recently that the language had been rescinded and that his client had moved forward to close his deal.

Unlike Bonds, the other nine free agents had signed term sheets, binding each player to the club. Bonds, instead, declined to sign a term sheet until all of the language was negotiated, although Borris said that all economic terms had been resolved on Dec. 7, the night Bonds agreed in principle to return to the club.

The unsigned term sheet became an issue when it was reported earlier this month that Bonds had failed an amphetamines test last season. But any failed test is handled under rules of the Basic Agreement and no Major League club can penalize a player above and beyond those rules.

For an initial failed amphetamines test, a player goes into a clinical tract and is subject to increased testing. A second failed test nets a 25-game penalty.

Barry M. Bloom is a national reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

Red Sox, Drew finalize deal-MLB.com

Finally, the Red Sox will be able to officially announce J.D. Drew as their new right fielder later this afternoon. Drew will be a fine addition to an already potent Boston outfield.

Announcement to be made Friday on long-awaited signing
By Ian Browne / MLB.com

BOSTON -- It can now be said officially that J.D. Drew is the new right fielder for the Boston Red Sox. That has unofficially been the case since Dec. 5, when agent Scott Boras announced to a pack of reporters that his client had struck a five-year, $70 million deal with Boston.

Fifty-two days later, Drew finally put a signature on that agreement. The Red Sox will hold a conference call at 2 p.m. ET on Friday to announce Drew as their new No. 5 hitter.

The hold-up? After conducting a physical on Drew in the second week of December, the Red Sox had some concerns about the outfielder's right shoulder, which was operated on in September 2005.

For the past several weeks, Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein and Boras tried finding common ground on contract language that would give the team protection in the event Drew suffered a significant injury to his right shoulder. A resolution was finally reached on Thursday.

The Boston Globe reported that the Red Sox would be able to opt out of Drew's contract after three years if he has right shoulder woes in the third year of the deal. If Drew has a significant injury to the right shoulder in the fourth year of the deal, the Red Sox could void the fifth year.

Drew replaces long-time fan favorite Trot Nixon in right field.

"I think Drew is a great fit to complement our existing personnel," said Epstein in December. "If you look, last year and the last couple of years -- especially last year -- a couple of our weaknesses were a No. 5 hitter and outfield defense, generally, especially with a fly-ball staff, which we have. Drew, if we end up signing him officially, he addresses both of those areas of concern."

Drew, 31, is coming off a solid season. He helped the Dodgers to the postseason in 2006 by hitting .283 with 34 doubles, six triples, 20 homers and 100 RBIs.

A patient hitter -- which fits in perfectly with Boston's offensive philosophy -- Drew has a smooth opposite field stroke from the left side. That should help him at Fenway, with the Green Monster just 310 feet from home plate.

Ian Browne is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

Games to watch in April of 2007

By David
Kaye

The 2007 MLB season commences on April 1st as the Mets travel to St.Louis in a rematch of last years NLCS. The Mets begin the season with an ambiguous starting rotation and the defending World Series Champs have already lost two starting pitchers due to free agency, but that number might reach three if Jeff Weaver decides to sign elsewhere.

Like many, I can't wait for another exciting Summer of baseball where I will have the distinguished honor of attending several Met & Yankee games. In all, there are 2, 430 games slated to be played between April 1st and September 30th.

The first day of baseball for many teams will be April 2nd and fans will have the opportunity to see many great games. The Phillies and Braves, Indians and White Sox and the Rangers and Angels will all resume their rivalries. On that same day sluggers Alfonso Soriano and Carlos Lee will both make their debuts for their respective teams.

Sports biggest rivalry will resume April 20-22 as the Yankees visit Fenway Park. With revenge on their minds, the Red Sox' will be eager to face their hated rival. Boston makes their first of three trips to Yankee Stadium the following weekend.

Mets, Randolph agree to new deal- MLB.com

Mets manager Willie Randolph will be rewarded today with a new three-year contract. Willie is a class guy both on and off the field, not to mention an elite manager. What he has done to remove the losing stigma from the Mets organization, and remind New Yorkers that there is another team besides the Yankees that actually plays in the Big Apple is remarkable.

Now, not only are the Mets talked about in the same breath as the Yankees, they are regarded as the better of the two teams.

Manager to get three-year contract with a club option for 2010
By Marty Noble / MLB.com

NEW YORK -- In the moments of exalt that followed the Mets' elimination of the Dodgers from the postseason in October, Willie Randolph spoke about how much he enjoyed watching his players celebrate.

"That's my reward," the Mets manager said in the middle of a crowded, loud and champagne-saturated visitors' clubhouse in Dodger Stadium. "Seeing them enjoy themselves the way I did when I won as a player."

A more tangible reward came his way late on Wednesday when his agent, Ron Shapiro, and the Mets agreed on a new contract for the 18th manager in franchise history. Randolph, who was to have earned $700,000 in 2007 and had no contract for beyond this season, agreed to a three-year deal that will pay him $1.4 million in '07, $1.8 million in '08 and $2.25 million in '09.

The contract also includes a club option for $2.5 million in 2010.

So ends a period of uneasy uncertainty that proved to be longer than anticipated and longer than it was confrontational. Whatever frustrations or disagreements that may have developed never manifested itself in any unbecoming way before Randolph achieved the security he sought, and the club assured itself of retaining the services of a manager who has directed a renaissance in his first two years.

An official announcement of the new contract is to be made on Thursday. The Mets may also announce that Randolph's revised staff of coaches -- Manny Acta having gone to manage the Nationals and Howard Johnson taking his place -- has been signed. Pitching coach Rick Peterson is believed to have agreed to a three-year deal.

The extension and restructuring of Randolph's contract came months after his team became the first Mets team in 18 years to win a National League East Division title. The Mets won 97 games -- they and the Yankees had the best records in the Majors in '06 -- after winning 83 in Randolph's first season.

Despite a series of injuries that undermined the team's starting rotation, the Mets finished 12 games ahead of the second-place Phillies and 18 ahead of the defending division champion Braves.

Moreover, he is generally credited with having changed the "culture in the clubhouse." Opposing managers routinely acknowledged that Randolph's teams play the game properly.

Until Randolph, no big-league manager ever had achieved improvement of at least 12 victories in each of his first two years on the job (strike-shortened seasons excluded). The last manager to achieve such improvement in successive seasons -- not necessarily his first two -- was Gil Hodges who, after managing the Senators, moved to manage the Mets in 1968. His first team won 12 more games than its predecessor. The 1969 Mets won 100, an improvement of 27 games, and the World Series.

Randolph's second team fell one victory short of the World Series. The new contract includes bonuses based on postseason achievements.

Marty Noble is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

MLB TV deal gets fuzzy reception- Yahoo! Sports

Columnist Dan Wetzel could not have done a better job in depicting the craziness that we call Major League Baseball. It's unfortunate that owners are so greedy that they need to continue alienating loyal baseball fans. In the long run, permitting 82% of people to watch out of market games is much better than permitting a mere 16%.

Sometimes I get tired of only watching the Yankees play, and want to tune into a Red Sox' or Dodgers game. This goes for many people, and especially fans who are forced to see the Royals or Pirates play every night. If these people are loyal fans they would gladly fork over the money to watch a competing club play every night. I can't wait for the day that owners wake up and realize what their doing is not only foolish, but down right dumb.

By Dan Wetzel, Yahoo! Sports
January 23, 2007

So here comes Major League Baseball in a quick, shortsighted money grab (again), selling out its core fans (again) and telling everyone (again) how the sport ought to be consumed.

Here comes MLB, as arrogant and detached as ever, ready to limit its popular "MLB Extra Innings" package by giving it exclusively to DirecTV rather than a large consortium of cable and satellite providers. And for what, an average of a million bucks per year, per team?

That's the price of fan loyalty these days? That's how much baseball owners value their best costumers? A bad middle reliever?

According to the New York Times, MLB is close to handing DirecTV the exclusive rights to Extra Innings – which allows fans to watch many out-of-market games – for $100 million per year over seven years. InDemand, which distributes the package currently, has upped its offer, but, according to the Washington Times, its deal will pay about $30 million less per year.

The difference averages out to $1 million per franchise, per year – or, in these days of overheated player spending, chicken scratch. Even if it was five times that, it wouldn't seem worth it to keep the product from so many fans.

According to industry figures, 75 million of America's estimated 92 million cable/satellite households (82 percent) have access to the Extra Innings package.

DirecTV reaches just 15 million households, or 16 percent of available consumers.

How MLB, which isn't talking about the proposed deal, could consider severely limiting the availability of its product a good idea at that pathetic price is stunning.

"It always seems to be a risky proposition when you're not only reaching fewer fans but raising their ire in the process," said David Carter, executive director of the University of Southern California's Sports Business Institute. "I've already seen reports that fans are not happy."

Why would they be? The current system – aside from MLB's maddening and nonsensical blackout policy – is the best one for fans. Extra Innings was available to almost everyone. You didn't need a dish, you didn't need to switch providers. You just paid and watched. Over 750,000 people loved it.

While some fans will undoubtedly make the change, it probably never dawned on baseball owners who live in gated mansions that not everyone can get DirecTV. Many apartment complexes and condominium developments prohibit satellite installation. Some lack the required clear view of the southern sky.

Other fans, especially the coveted younger demographic, may be in a transient stage and will not want to invest in a satellite system for a temporary place. Some simply favor their current television providers – such as Comcast in Philadelphia – which offer compelling original local sports programming. Others will balk at DirecTV, whose reception can be affected by weather and struggles to provide service for multiple television sets.

The reasons hardly matter. The question is: Why make it more difficult for customers to buy the product?

MLB would certainly like fans to sign up for streaming broadcasts of games through MLB.TV, but no one can, with a straight face, claim that watching a game on a computer is the same as on television.

"One thing we know about sports fans is they want to consume content on their own terms and not be arm-twisted into a way the league wants," Carter said.

Not that the owners cared about that. Or this. Or anything that has to do with you.

Extra Innings is more than just another entertainment option. For many, it's emotional. With downsizing and a fluctuating economy, Americans have increasingly been on the move, seeking jobs and lives throughout the country, often away from their childhood franchise.

Extra Innings gave many a taste of home each summer night. It offered, for example, the Mets fan who relocated to California the opportunity to follow his team – and his town – as if he still lived back in Queens. It provided a bond with old friends and family.

Baseball can do what it wants – ours is, after all, a capitalistic society – but this deal is a slap in the face to loyal fans, who the owners clearly believe will never abandon the sport.

About the only surprising thing here is the lack of surprise. This is consistent with how MLB runs its business, an anti-trust exempted monopoly of a product that is part of the fabric of America. It is a plaything and tax write-off for the rich and ridiculous.

The only hope to ditch the dish is intervention from Congress, which could strip MLB of its anti-trust exemption, which stems from a 1922 Supreme Court case that ruled baseball games were just "local affairs" and – get this – not "interstate commerce."

But considering how much money billionaire owners can sprinkle around to politicians, you could get better odds on the Kansas City Royals winning the World Series. Similar efforts against the NFL have died quickly.

Which is why baseball knows it never needs to reciprocate fan loyalty – you have no other choice.

"The challenge is how to maximize (revenue) without turning off your core audience," Carter said.

Not for baseball owners. There is no challenge. They've long ago proven they don't care about anything but fast cash.

The thing is, just because they own the teams, they shouldn't own the game.

Dan Wetzel is Yahoo! Sports' national columnist. Send Dan a question or comment for potential use in a future column or webcast.

Updated on Wednesday, Jan 24, 2007 2:58 am EST

Yankees will host the 2008 All Star Game

By David
Kaye

Get ready Yankee fans because your team will be hosting the 2008 Midsummer Classic. This will be the first time since 1977 that Yankee Stadium hosted the game, but there is added significance because it will be the last year that the Bronx Bombers will play in the current Yankee Stadium.Their new stadium is set to open for the 2009 baseball season.

The ''House that Ruth Built'' has experienced 39 American League Pennants, 26 World Championships, and now their fourth All- Star Game.

This is exciting news for a city that loves Yankee baseball more than anything else, and continues to set attendance records every year. The cross town rival Mets should expect an All- Star Game to be played at their new stadium Citi Field within five years of its opening. Their stadium is also expected to open for the 2009 baseball season.

This is great news for a fantastic baseball town. It's hard pressed to find another city outside of St.Louis or Boston that is more loyal to their team. Speaking of St.Louis, the Cardinals will play host to the 2009 All-Star Game. The game will be played at the new Busch Stadium.

As a result of the 08' All-Star Game, the city of New York will be receiving an abundance of revenue from many different sources. This game is sure to spark the attention of die hard baseball fans from across the country who will cherish the idea of coming into the worlds' most famous city for a few days during the month of July. Let alone, the thousands of Yankee season ticket holders who will have first grabs at tickets for the game. Now, the thousands of consumers from outside of New York will not only spend their disposable income at Yankee Stadium, but they will also spend money on hotels,restaurants, the theater, and many other venues.

The 2008 All- Star Game will be a win-win situation for the Yankees and the city of New York.

The Twins add veteran leadership to their starting rotation

By David
Kaye

The Twins starting rotation includes three players who made their Major League debuts last season. In search of stability and leadership on their team, Minnesota inked right-hander Ramon Ortiz to a one-year deal worth an estimated $3.1 million. That's pretty impressive for a player who went 11-16 last season.

With only two starters in Johan Santana and Carlos Silva who had more than a years pitching experience, the Twins needed to go out and sign a veteran. Ortiz has been in the majors for eight years and during his career he has played for three teams. He won the World Series in 2002 with the Angels, and most recently played for the Reds and Nationals.

By no means is Ortiz an overbearing pitcher, but he will add some security to Ron Gardenhire's staff. During the past two season Ortiz has had an ERA of 5.36 and 5.57, and has surrendered a total of 65 home runs. To be successful, Ortiz needs to keep the ball down and find the confidence he had during his six seasons with the Angels. With the electrifying Johan Santana on his team, the 33 year old will quickly learn how to be an effective pitcher.

It appears that Glen Perkins who made his big league debut last September will be the odd man out in the Twinkies starting rotation. Right-hander Carlos Silva has been with Minnesota for the past three seasons, but struggled last season as he went 11-15 with an ERA of 5.94. Considering his experience, he should be given an extending period of time to prove himself, but if he's not effective Scott Baker, Sidney Ponson or even Glen Perkins could take his spot in the rotation.

Right-hander Boof Bonser is currently slated in as the second starter, and last season he displayed his talent as he went 7-6 with a 4.22 ERA in 18 games. More importantly, the St.Petersburg, Florida native had a walk to strikeout ratio of 3:1, and in his lone postseason start he went six innings and only gave up two runs.

As Twins pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training on February 18th, it will be interesting to see who secures the final spots in Minnesota's starting rotation.The Twins will have an up hill battle all season long as they try to defend their AL Central crown. The White Sox, Tigers, and Indians will all be close on their track.

Utley gets seven-year, $85M extension- MLB.com

The best second baseman in baseball proved that hard work does pay off. After a career season, Chase Utley inked a contract worth a whopping $85 million. Quietly, he and reigning NL MVP Ryan Howard are forming the best one-two offensive combination in all of baseball.

All-Star second baseman to remain with Phillies through 2013
By Ken Mandel / MLB.com

PHILADELPHIA -- Chase Utley exchanged marriage vows with his fiancée on Saturday afternoon in San Francisco.

A day later, the All-Star second baseman made a similar long-term commitment to the Phillies, agreeing to a seven-year, $85 million contract that will keep him in Philadelphia through the 2013 season. Though Utley will make less annually up front and more toward the end, this deal averages a little more than $12 million a season.

"We view Chase as not only a great second baseman but also one of the top 10-15 players in the game," assistant general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said in a statement. "He's a hard-nosed, full-throttle player who exemplifies the spirit of Philadelphia. He is tailor-made for this city and we couldn't be happier to lock him up for years to come."

The contract eliminates the sometimes messy process of salary arbitration, when teams exchange figures and either agree on a number or have a salary determined by an independent arbitrator. Last week, Utley submitted a figure of $6.25 million, while the Phillies offered $4.5 million, the third-largest gap between player and team.

This pact covers Utley's three years of arbitration eligibility and delays his possible free agency for four years, keeping him in red pinstripes for a long time. In 2006, Utley emerged as Major League Baseball's premier offensive second baseman, clubbing 32 homers and driving in 102 runs, while scoring 131 times. He also fashioned a 35-game hitting streak, the longest streak of the season and second-longest streak in team history.

There is precedent for such an agreement. Entering his first year of arbitration eligibility in 2004, the Cardinals' Albert Pujols inked a seven-year, $100 million extension, also avoiding the arbitration process. That came a year after St. Louis gave the slugging first baseman a $900,000 pact, a then-record one-year deal for a third-year player.

National League Most Valuable Player Ryan Howard will likely read about Utley's contract with great interest, as he is eligible for arbitration after the 2007 season. If the Phillies don't signed Howard to a long-term deal this winter, he'll still likely break Pujols' $900,000 mark.

Ken Mandel is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

David Wells signs with San Diego

By David
Kaye

Boomer is headed back home to San Diego. He agreed to a one-year deal worth $3 million, but the contract could be worth up to $4 million when you add in incentives. Wells is now 43 years of age,and has been hampered by lingering back troubles throughout his 2o year career. He recently had knee surgery at the start of last season.

If Wells can stay healthy he will add to an already potent pitching staff that acquired veteran Greg Maddux in the off season. Combined, both players have 563 career wins. San Diego will need this veteran leadership if they are to win the tough NL West. Along with Jake Peavy, Chris Young and Clay Hensley, the Padres have an extremely formidable starting rotation. It also doesn't hurt to have the all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman closing out games for you.

General manager Kevin Towers recently said ''This guy[Wells], when he's healthy, is one of the best big-game pitchers in the history of the game.'' If Boomer can stay healthy, the Padres have a pretty good chance at reaching the World Series for the first time since 1998. Coincidentally, Wells was on the Yankees team that beat the Padres in the 98' World Series.

After figure swaps, eight come to terms- MLB.com

The great thing about salary-arbitration is that many greedy players don't receive what they filed for. They are still getting a plethora of money, but at least they receive a little less than they though they deserved.

Two weeks remain before salary hearings set to start
By Jim Street / MLB.com

It's eight down, 48 to go.

That was the tally late Friday night, heading into the first weekend after salary-arbitration figures were exchanged.

Three of the players reaching contract agreements since Tuesday's salary-figure exchange landed multiyear contracts:

• Arizona Diamondbacks left-hander Doug Davis -- acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers along with outfielder Dave Krynzel and pitcher Dana Eveland for catcher Johnny Estrada, pitcher Claudio Vargas and reliever Greg Aquino -- signed a three-year, $22 million contract.

• Seattle Mariners closer J.J. Putz signed a three-year, $13.1 million deal that includes a fourth-year club option.

• Cleveland Indians outfielder Jason Michaels received a two-year, $4.25 million contract.

Five others received one-year contracts. Brewers pitcher Chris Capuano avoided the final step of salary arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $3.25 million offer (he filed for $3.7 million), Pirates pitcher Shawn Chacon, who filed for $4.25 million, signed a one-year deal for $3.825 million; Cleveland Indians pitcher Jason Davis agreed to a one-year deal, for $670,000; Oakland Athletics pitcher Kirk Saarloos avoided a hearing by accepting a one-year offer on Friday, as did Brewers infielder Tony Graffanino.

Less than two weeks remain before the first hearing before a three-member panel is held. Among the players still headed in that direction are reigning American League Most Valuable Player Justin Morneau, Minnesota Twins teammate and AL batting champion Joe Mauer, and National League batting champ Freddy Sanchez, of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

But if the past few years are indicative of things to come, most of the 49 arbitration-eligible players still unsigned should be in their respective folds before Feb. 1 -- the first day of hearings. Of the 43 players who exchanged salaries with their clubs last season, only six reached the hearing stage.

Several more multiyear deals are bound to be worked out in the coming days as clubs and players attempt to work things out well before Spring Training camps open in Florida and Arizona in mid-February.

But Davis and Putz can relax for a few years.

"We believe that trading for Doug and signing him to a three-year contract improves and stabilizes our rotation," D-backs general manager Josh Byrnes said. "It is challenging to acquire and retain quality starting pitching, and this is an important step for us to build a playoff-caliber rotation."

Davis, 31, filed for $7.5 million, and the organization offered $5.25 million. He made $3.6 million last year, when he went 11-11 with a 4.91 ERA in 34 starts over 203 1/3 innings pitched, marking his third consecutive 200-plus-inning season.

Arizona projects Davis to be the No. 4 starter, behind reigning Cy Young Award winner Brandon Webb, five-time Cy Young Award winner Randy Johnson and veteran right-hander Livan Hernandez.

Davis has made 103 starts the past three seasons, second only in the Majors behind only Hernandez (104).

Putz finishes games.

"J.J. Putz was one of the great stories of the 2006 baseball season," Mariners general manager Bill Bavasi said. "He took over the closer's role and was simply dominant. When he was called on, he really thrived in that ninth-inning pressure."

Putz saved 36 games last season despite not taking over the job until the first week of May.

"J.J. was just nails for us last season," manager Mike Hargrove said. "One of the things I really admired was his willingness to take the ball whenever we needed him to."

Putz led all AL relievers with 104 strikeouts in 78 1/3 innings, and walked only 13 batters while pitching in a career-high 72 games.

"I don't know what it is, but the ninth inning is definitely different," Putz said. "I think there's something with the energy in the stadium. I live for that. I think that it's the best thing in the world. For some reason, those are three hard outs to get."

Jim Street is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

George Mitchell Asks Baseball Owners To Cooperate With Steroid Investigation

George Mitchell urges owners' cooperation in probe

Associated Press

PHOENIX (AP) - Former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell warned baseball owners that a lack of cooperation with his investigation into steroid use will "significantly increase" the chances of government involvement.
Speaking to owners at baseball's quarterly meetings, Mitchell said he intends to interview active players and raised the possibility that Congress or other government authorities could compel testimony..

"I believe it will be in your best interests, and the best interests of baseball, if I can report that I have received full cooperation from your organizations, and from others, in conducting this investigation," Mitchell said in remarks that were released to reporters.

Mitchell cited last week's Hall of Fame vote to underscore the importance of his investigation. Mark McGwire was picked on 23.5 percent of ballots — far below the necessary 75 percent needed for induction. The vote was viewed by many as the first referendum on how history will judge an age when bulked-up players came under suspicion of using performance-enhancing drugs. Baseball didn't ban steroids until after the 2002 season.

"If nothing else, the results of the Hall of Fame voting last week, and the reaction to it, offer fresh evidence that this issue will not just fade away," Mitchell said. "Whether you think it fair or not, whether you think it justified or not, Major League Baseball has a cloud over its head, and that cloud will not just go away."

Mitchell cannot compel testimony. He warned the clubs that Congress or other federal or state authorities which do have subpoena power could get involved.

"I believe that a report that is not credible and thorough will significantly increase the possibility of action by others, especially if it's the result of a lack of cooperation by the clubs, or by anyone else who is or has been involved with baseball," Mitchell said.

Mitchell did not speak to reporters after addressing owners. He was hired by commissioner Bud Selig last March following more than a year of allegations against Barry Bonds, McGwire and other stars. No timetable was set for Mitchell's report.

Bonds is under investigation by a federal grand jury as to whether he perjured himself when he testified in 2003 in the BALCO steroid distribution case that he hadn't knowingly taken any performance-enhancing drugs.

The San Francisco Giants are negotiating a contract with Bonds, who needs 22 home runs to surpass Hank Aaron's mark of 755. Speaking to reporters at a golf tournament in the Dominican Republic this week, Bonds declined to discuss ongoing negotiations with the Giants, or his reported positive test for amphetamines last year. Giants owner Peter Magowan declined to answer questions about Bonds.

Selig also spoke to the owners about Mitchell's investigation. Asked if he had urged the clubs to cooperate with Mitchell, Selig said, "Urge is probably not strong enough."

"Look, some clubs have been more cooperative than others, but at this stage, I'm not concerned about that," Selig said. "He will have cooperation."

Selig would not say which clubs are lagging in their cooperation. Mitchell acknowledged that teams aren't used to dealing with "large-scale document discovery," which can be time-consuming. But he said his investigation would move faster if clubs cooperated more quickly.

"Many have asked when my report will be completed," he said. "The pace of this investigation is dictated by the rate at which information is received."

Houston owner Drayton McLane said the owners weren't surprised by Mitchell's remarks.

"It's a process that's very complicated, and it's just going to take time to complete," McLane said. "The steroids issues continue to emerge, and the public wants to know. For some reason they want to know more about baseball on steroids than they do football or basketball. So it's certainly focused on this."

During the meeting, Selig also spoke about the free-agent market and singled out the Chicago Cubs and San Francisco Giants, among others, for their spending, one official at the meeting said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the remarks during the session were not intended to be made public. Selig also mentioned the Toronto Blue Jays, the official said.

Selig wouldn't specify what he said to owners about the game's economics.

"We discussed some things, but we do that at every meeting," Selig said.

Bucs agree to deal for Braves' LaRoche- MLB.com

Finally, the Pirates were able to trade for their most coveted off season treasure. Adam LaRoche will be starting at first base this season for Pittsburgh and he will bring them youth and exceptional offensive production. With more deals like this, the Pirates are on their way to becoming a .500 team.

Pittsburgh sending closer Gonzalez to Atlanta for power hitter
By Ed Eagle / MLB.com

PITTSBURGH -- After more than a month of speculation, the Pirates and Braves agreed in principle Wednesday to a deal that would send Pittsburgh closer Mike Gonzalez to Atlanta for first baseman Adam LaRoche, according to a source familiar with the negotiations.

The deal will include at least one prospect from each team, likely non-roster players at the Class A level.

The trade will not officially be announced until LaRoche and Gonzalez have passed physical examinations with their new teams. Gonzalez will travel to Atlanta for his exam on Thursday morning, when LaRoche is also expected to meet with Pirates team doctors in Pittsburgh.

By acquiring LaRoche, the Pirates will fulfill their primary offseason objective of landing a young, left-handed power bat for the middle of their lineup. LaRoche, 27, batted .285 with 32 home runs, 90 RBIs and an OPS of .915 last year in his third season with the Braves.

Gonzalez, 28, went 3-4 with a 2.17 ERA and converted each of his 24 save opportunities last year in his first season as a closer. There had been some concerns on the Braves' part about Gonzalez's health because the hard-throwing southpaw was sidelined for the final month of the 2006 season by a sore left elbow.

Gonzalez, in a telephone conversation with MLB.com on Wednesday night, said that he felt mixed emotions about the deal.

"Of course I'm very pleased to be going to a great team like the Braves. They're a powerhouse," said Gonzalez. "But then again, I have my teammates in Pittsburgh that I've grown fond of. This is really the only organization I know.

"I'm happy for both sides. The Pirates are going to be a good team in the coming year. But now, I'm going over there and I'm ecstatic to get things going with the Braves."

The Gonzalez-for-LaRoche deal was nearly consummated during the Winter Meetings in December, but the Braves backed out of the trade when the Pirates would not add a second player to go along with Gonzalez. The two teams have remained in contact throughout the past month in an effort to come up with a transaction that was satisfactory for both sides.

There could be a financial motivation behind the Braves' decision to pull the trigger on the deal. On Tuesday, the Pirates signed Gonzalez to a one-year deal worth $2.35 million, thus avoiding the arbitration process. The Braves could not agree to terms with LaRoche before the Tuesday deadline for teams to exchange salary figures with arbitration-eligible players. Atlanta made an offer of $2.8 million to LaRoche, who is seeking $3.7 million.

Romak, 21, could add some much-needed additional power to the Pirates' farm system. The right-handed hitter batted .247 with 26 doubles, two triples, 16 home runs, 68 RBIs and an OPS of .840 in 348 at-bats with Class A Rome last season.

Lillibridge, 23, combined to hit .305 with 13 home runs, 71 RBIs and 53 stolen bases in 2006 while splitting the season between low Class A Hickory and high Class A Lynchburg

Ed Eagle is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs

Sosa, Rangers agree in principle to deal- MLB.com

Like it or not, Sammy Sosa is returning to the game of baseball. He will be in Surprise, Arizona next month when the Rangers open up Spring Training. Texas won't be receiving the Sosa that so many of us grew to love during the late 90's, but they will be receiving a player who's hungry to compete and who has something to prove to the baseball world.



The majority of people can agree upon the fact that Sosa did aid his performance by using steroids, but he wants to prove to us that he still has something left in the tank. This signing is a win-win situation for the Rangers because their financial responsibility to Sosa is next to nothing, and they will be receiving all the media attention they can get from now until the season is over.


Dominican slugger is fifth on the all-time homers list with 588
By T.R. Sullivan / MLB.com


ARLINGTON -- Sammy Sosa is coming back to the Rangers.

The two sides have reached an agreement in principle, and now general manager Jon Daniels and agent Adam Katz are trying to work out the final details. A formal announcement is expected in the next few days.


Two key figures in this whole process -- manager Ron Washington and hitting coach Rudy

Jaramillo -- are one with the idea: Bring on Sammy Sosa.

"I'm all for it," Washington said on Wednesday while driving from New Orleans to Dallas for the big announcement. "Anytime you can get a guy of his pedigree and background and attitude, and [he] shows he still has his swing ... I'm for it."

Jaramillo, who was Sosa's first manager back in 1986 with the Rangers Rookie League team in Sarasota, Fla., was among those who watched the seven-time All-Star work out on Monday at Ameriquest Field in Arlington and was excited by what he saw.

"The main thing is his attitude and the kind of shape he is in," Jaramillo said. "He looked in really good shape. He has been swinging the bat and working out all winter.

"There's a wrong perception of him. He knows he's not the Sammy of '98, but his attitude is great, and he's hungry. He wants to prove something. He has a lot of pride. He's not going to come back and let himself fail."

Sosa is expected to come in to camp on a $500,000 incentive-laden Minor League contract in an attempt to show the Rangers he can be their full-time designated hitter and occasional outfielder.

"I'd love to have him hit fifth behind Mark Teixeira if he shows he can hit Major League pitching," Washington said. "As we get into Spring Training, his performance will show what we can do with him.

"He's looking for an opportunity to get back in the game. There are no promises, he has to perform. If he does do that, we'll be happy to have him here. If he doesn't, then we'll have to make a decision."

Sosa, who broke into the Major Leagues with the Rangers in 1989, did not play in 2006. He was with the Baltimore Orioles in 2005 and batted just .221 with 14 home runs and 45 RBIs in 102 games and 380 at-bats. His slugging percentage was just .376, which is 161 points lower than his career .537 mark.

"He had a bad year in Baltimore," Jaramillo said. "What I saw was bad timing and bad mechanics. He didn't trust himself and he was jumping at the ball. When you do that, your swing is going to look long and slow. But there were a few times where he was able to put it all together and he looked like the Sammy of old."

Sosa, fifth all time with 588 career home runs, was at his best between 1998-2001 while with the Chicago Cubs. In 1998, he joined Mark McGwire in a joint assault on Roger Maris' single-season home run record. McGwire ended up on top with 70 home runs, but Sosa still hit 66 home runs with 158 RBIs and a .308 batting average. He was named the National League's Most Valuable Player.

Between 1998-2001, Sosa hit 243 home runs. He also led the National League in home runs with 49 in 2002 and led the Cubs to a division title in 2003 when he hit 40 home runs with 103 RBIs.

At his peak, Sosa was one of the most popular players in the game and a national hero in the Dominican Republic. But he has also had off-the-field issues -- his enormous personality can command undue attention in a clubhouse and he has clashed with previous managers over his fielding and where he would hit in the lineup.

He was suspended in 2004 for using a corked bat, but he said it was an accident. Baseball confiscated 76 other bats that he owned and all were found to be clean. He was also one of several prominent baseball players called to testify before Congress in March 2005 about steroids in baseball. Sosa told Congress he has never used performance-enhancing drugs.

Washington said he has no concerns about any potential issues.

"We watched him swing the bat, we had dinner with him and covered everything we need to cover as far as him being a teammate and a member of the Texas Rangers," Washington said.

"We shared with him some ideas of what we want him to do. He wants to be a part of this and get back in the game.

"He promised there's not going to be a lot of hoopla. He's coming back to be a baseball player. If he does that, everything is going to be fine, but we told him we're not looking for a lot of distractions."

Jaramillo said Sosa will not be a distraction.

"The fans love this guy," Jaramillo said. "Can you imagine Sammy Sosa running to right field in Arlington? He has a great presence. I talked to Mike Young about him and he said, 'Bring him on.'

"He knows this isn't his team. His attitude is great. I know what people are going to say but I know Sammy. His makeup was one of the best I've ever seen when he was a kid. I know him better than anybody and he knows me. He won't get away with anything. I'll push him. I'll be hard on him."

Jaramillo said Sosa would be a big help to some of the Rangers' younger players like Nelson Cruz, Jason Botts and Joaquin Arias. Washington said Sosa is not going to take at-bats away from anybody.

"This is a competition," Washington said. "He's not going to be given a job. He has to earn it. Everybody is going to be given a chance to step up and earn the job.

"If somebody else loses at-bats in Spring Training, it's not going to be because of Sammy, you lose at-bats because you're not performing. If that's pressure, so be it, this is the Major Leagues."

The Rangers will find out soon enough. Spring Training starts next month. Sosa will be there with the Rangers.

"If he's close to the Sammy of old, it's a great sign," Jaramillo said. "I truly believe he's going to do it. It's going to take a lot of hard work and commitment but it's there."

T.R. Sullivan is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

Teahen helps effort to build youth field- MLB.com

Why can't there be more big leaguers like Mark Teahen?

Royals Player of the Year recovering from shoulder injury
By Dick Kaegel / MLB.com

LIBERTY, Mo. -- Last season Mark Teahen was in a Royals series of commercials with the tagline: This is Kansas City! Shown were such warm and fuzzy locales as the Plaza, Worlds of Fun and Kauffman Stadium.

When Teahen emerged from a youngsters baseball clinic here last weekend into a world of freezing rain and snow, he couldn't resist.

"This is Kansas City!" he deadpanned.

Or at least it was Liberty where, as spokesman for the YMCA Challenger Baseball program, he participated in an instructional event at William Jewell College.

"It was awesome. I had a great time. It was a lot of fun," Teahen said. "The more I get to be with the Challenger kids, the more comfortable I get and the more I get out of it."

About a dozen kids with special needs attended the clinic along with 52 other youngsters, the William Jewell baseball team, Royals alumni and Major League scouts.

Teahen, the Royals Player of the Year for 2006, is lending his name and influence to the building of the Challenger Sports Complex in Kansas City. The facility will include custom-designed fields that cushion falls and accommodate wheelchairs and other assistive devices.

Royals Charities has joined forces with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, William Jewell and the Little League in the creation of the north Kansas City complex. The baseball field will give kids, ages 10 to 18, the chance to hit the ball, run the bases and experience the thrill of crossing home plate.

Teahen spent the entire day last Saturday giving instruction in the clinic directed by Phillies scout Jerry Lafferty. Phillies slugger Ryan Howard, in town for the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum banquet, stopped by on Sunday to answer questions from the participants.

"Cool," Teahen said. "I played with him in the fall league."

Teahen took time to meet privately with the William Jewell baseball players who were volunteers at the clinic.

"It was fantastic for our guys to hear a big league perspective," coach Mike Stockton said. "Mark seems very humble. He's kept a handle on things. When you're teaching college-age kids, it's great to have a guy like him as a role model."

Teahen's energetic approach indicated his recovery from right shoulder surgery is going well. He expects to be at full force when he reports to Spring Training next month.

This was the second KC clinic put on by the Midwest scouts, who also hold events in the St. Louis area.

"In 10 years, we've raised over $80,000 for charity," Lafferty said.

Funds from this clinic will go toward the Challenger complex.

Teahen noted the clinic turnout probably would have been bigger with better weather. More freezing rain on Sunday kept Teahen from heading for sunny Florida. His flight was canceled.

Now he knows the story all too well: This is Kansas City!

Dick Kaegel is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.