We're nearing the end of the first week of January, and we still have a lack of clarity surround several big-name free agents in Major League Baseball. Things should clear up as the days dwindle down in advance of Spring Training, and speculation will be the name of the game until then. With that said, here's our MLB Rumors Roundup For January 8th.
Padres Looking At Two Shortstops?
The San Diego Padres are searching for a new shortstop and they reportedly have two at the top of their list. The first is Ian Desmond, and the San Diego Union Tribune reports both sides are in contact with each other. The club is also interested in Alexei Ramirez.
Sources: #Padres still talking to SS Alexei Ramirez, as first reported by @MLBBruceLevine. Would require shorter term than Desmond.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 8, 2016
Ramirez would be cheaper than Desmond and would allow the team to keep their second round pick.
Rockies Want Parra?
The Rockies seem to be looking into changing their outfielders. That's led them to consider OF Gerardo Parra.
rockies are among teams making a push for gerardo parra. OF market obviously starting to percolate.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 8, 2016
If the team signs Parra, The Denver Post speculates that could spell the end of Carlos Gonzalez' time in Colorado. The St. Louis Cardinals could be one landing spot.
Yankees Add Kirby Yates
The Yankees are reportedly buying Kirby Yates from the Indians.
Yankees have purchased Kirby Yates, a LH reliever, from the Indians. He had been DFA'd. He's 1-2 w/ 5.27 ERA in 57 career games (w/ Rays)
— Jack Curry (@JackCurryYES) January 8, 2016
The Indians are getting cash considerations for Yates, who is actually a righty.
Royals Add Chien Ming Wang
The Royals are still giddy over bringing back Alex Gordon, but they aren't done making moves. The team signed Chien Ming Wang to a minor league deal yesterday.
Chien Ming Wang's deal with Kansas City: Base is $1M, with an additional $1.5M in incentives for GS/IP, up to $250K for relief appearances.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 7, 2016
Wang only gets that money if makes the major league team. It's a low-risk, high-reward deal for Wang. He hasn't pitched in the majors since 2013. There was a time when Wang was one of the best pitchers in the majors. However, that time has passed. There's a real chance he never makes the Royals' 25-man roster.
Reds Bringing Back Reliever?
The Cincinnati Reds are still in sell-mode, but they might bring back one of their relievers from last year.
Hearing that #reds are close to bringing back RHP/reliever Ryan Mattheus. He was non-tendered earlier in offseason. Likely minor lg deal.
— Mark Sheldon (@m_sheldon) January 8, 2016
Mattheus appeared in 57 games for the Reds last year. He posted a 4.09 ERA and a 1.53 WHIP.
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