Intriguing Names Added To Free Agency On Non-Tender Day

On Friday a number of players were not tendered contracts by their now-former teams, making them free agents. A number of these players could become intriguing plays for teams trying to find the missing piece.

Daniel Cabrera, SP, Baltimore Orioles

Cabrera, a 6-foot-10 inch tall, flame-throwing right hander who turns 28 in May, has been a name that has tickled the trade market in each of the past four years. His raw ability has frustrated scouts and coaches alike as he has failed to get his ERA under 4.50. Perhaps a change of scenery, or a move to the bullpen, can help him fulfill his promise.

Willy Tavarez, OF, Colorado Rockies

Tavarez is a fascinating name to see on this list because he has been linked to so many trade scenarios so recently. Anyone looking for a leadoff man, especially the White Sox, have asked about Tavarez' availability. He figures to find a new home quickly.

Chris Burke, OF/INF, Arizona Diamondbacks

Burke is a versatile player who served the Houston Astros well in their run to the 2005 World Series. The acquisition of Miguel Tejada to play shortstop, coupled with the emergence of Hunter Pence in the outfield, made Burke expendable and he moved to Arizona. He had a terrible season in 2008, but his ability to play a number of positions and his relatively cheap asking price might make him a popular name.

Ty Wigginton, 3B, Houston Astros

Wigginton, who will be 31 all of next year, has been a productive role player for a handful of seasons. He hit 23 home runs in only 386 at bats in 2008. His value as a role player has found him changing uniforms five times in the past four seasons, and he will likely find himself on another team in 2009.

Other players not tendered contracts this week include Denny Bautista, Clay Hensley, Scott Proctor, Tim Redding, Yhency Brazoban, Chris Capuano and Takashi Saito.