MLB's Winter Meetings: Day 3

The feeling around the Hilton Anatole is that Albert Pujols will more than likely make his decision by the end of Wednesday. At this time the St. Louis Cardinals have made a counteroffer to the Miami Marlins' proposal (monetary value undisclosed) with a 10-year deal worth $220 million. 

It is an exciting time here in Dallas, and it’s quite amazing how fast the information flies around the hotel. With Twitter blowing up all day and all night, you can go from possible trades and signings to blockbuster happenings within seconds.

I can’t explain the atmosphere near the media bar where the majority of the conversing takes place. Without any notice, you can see a sea of people reach for their iPhone or Blackberry and read the latest update; the reactions are priceless. 

I have had the privilege of meeting and talking with some great people who have one thing in common—baseball. And with that gives any and all a chance to walk up to a complete stranger and talk with them like you have known them forever. 

While this is a massive networking event, the transactions are what everyone wants to know about. It is truly remarkable the things you hear:

• Seattle is the front-runner in the Prince Fielder sweepstakes

• Hanley Ramirez does not want to move to third

• A no-trade clause, or lack thereof, could lead Albert Pujols back to the Cardinals

• Gio Gonzalez could be the newest Detroit Tiger

• The Angels have been mentioned in the Pujols sweepstakes (highly unlikely) and could land Aramis Ramirez instead…however, will have to battle the Milwaukee Brewers for that right

• Is C.J. Wilson the newest Marlin…or Angel 

Confirmed:

• Huston Street has been dealt to the San Diego Padres for a minor leaguer

At the time of writing this, all the above possible transactions could have been tweaked or changed, and new whispers have surfaced. 

That’s it for Day 3. I thank everyone who has taken the time to speak to me, and I look forward to seeing you all at the next baseball get-together. 

Wonder what Day 4 has in store? Again, a Bart Scott quote is ringing in my ears.

Devon is the founder of The GM’s Perspective.

Devon is a former professional baseball player with the River City Rascals and Gateway Grizzlies, and is now an independent scout.