Today's Top Five MLB Rumors and Transactions
Spring training, a time of great anticipation, will be upon us in two weeks, and teams are still in the midst of retooling their teams.
The baseball world is wondering if Andy Pettitte will come back to the New York Yankees next year and what is going on with the talks between Josh Hamilton and the Texas Rangers.
Though it has been a fairly slow day, here are today's biggest rumors and transactions.
Alexei Ramirez Recieves Four-Year Extension
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According to Doug Padilla of ESPNChicago, the Chicago White Sox and Alexei Ramirez have agreed to a four-year contract extension.
The deal is believed to be worth $32.5 million, which also includes an option for the fifth year.
This season, Ramirez averaged 18 home runs and 70 RBI after his already impressive rookie season in 2008.
This is a great move for the White Sox, and I do not think it will be a stretch to say that Ramirez will be the best shortstop in the American League next year.
Will Andy Pettitte Pitch For The Yankees?
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The veteran left-hander has been contemplating whether to call it a career or come back and pitch in New York.
Multiple reports confirm that the Yankees have a $12 million dollar offer on the table.
But the Yankees appear to be preparing for next season without Pettitte, as they have signed both Freddie Garcia and Bartolo Colon to minor league deals.
Hamilton and Rangers Still Negotiating
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The negotiations continue between Josh Hamilton and the Texas Rangers about arbitration figures, but both sides continue to be far apart in the process. Hamilton desires $12 million deal and the Rangers submitted one worth $8.7 million.
Both are continuing to talk, in hopes of avoiding an arbitration hearing, something the Rangers haven't dealt with since Lee Stevens in 2000.
A promise of a long-term deal for Hamilton might help the two parties find a common ground.
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Orioles Make Final Offer To Guerrero
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According to multiple reports, the Baltimore Orioles are still in talks with Vladimir Guerrero and are willing to offer a deal worth between $4.5 million and $5.5 million.
Guerrero has another year of production left in him but could really make things interesting this summer for the O's. The team still needs a back-up catcher and a lefty reliever, but acquiring Guerrero will be a good start.
Yankees Sign Pitcher Freddy Garcia
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The Yankees appear as if they are preparing for life without Andy Pettittie, as they continue to wait on his decision.
Garcia will make $1.5 if he makes the major league and another $3.6 million in performance incentives.
After the inexpensive, but performance risky, pitcher signings of players recovering from injuries or showing their age, this appears to be a solid move for the Yankees.
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