The first in a series of offseason reports on Major League Baseball’s Hot Stove action.  Every Monday, the BDD writers weigh in on the moves that will shape the Major League rosters of ‘09:

BASEBALL DIGEST DAILY OFFSEASON POWER RANKINGS

Throughout the offseason, BDD will keep a running tally of all of the offseason moves and recap them by ranking the 30 Major League teams with recaps of the previous week’s moves for each team and select comments from the BDD team (click on picture to right to view all of team’s offseason moves to date):

1. LOS ANGELES ANGELS

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (2): Exercised $15-million option on Vladimir Guerrero and $9-million option on John Lackey for ‘09
Free Agents (6): Garret Anderson, Jon Garland, Darren Oliver, Juan Rivera, Francisco Rodriguez, Mark Teixeira

Summary:The Angels started the Hot Stove league off by keeping Guerrero and Lackey in the mix but at a hefty $24-million.  The consensus was the Lackey option was a no brainer at $9 million.  In addition, they freed up some room by declining the option on Anderson who is likely to walk.  The Angels were rumored in the Jake Peavy talk for a bit and are playing it close to the vest on trade deadline acquisition Teixeira.  If the Angels land Teixeira, expect them to be applauded but how they choose to go if they don’t re-sign him is a more intriguing and less certain future.

BDD Writer Comments

On retaining Vladimir Guerrero:
“Great security in case Teixeira goes elsewhere and the Halos lose in the bidding wars.” - Bill Baer

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2. Chicago Cubs

Added (0)
Lost (1): Casey McGehee claimed off waivers by Milwaukee Brewers
Retained (1): Exercised $7-million option on Rich Harden for ‘09
Free Agents (8): Henry Blanco, Ryan Dempster, Jim Edmonds, Chad Fox, Bob Howry, Jon Lieber, Daryle Ward, Kerry Wood

Summary: The Cubs wasted no time in keeping their claim to Harden.  They also tried to push McGehee through waivers to clear a roster spot but the Brewers snatched him up.  The decline of Blanco’s option was one that raised a few eyebrows but the team expects to bring him back.  Will the Cubs give Dempster the long-term deal he is looking for or will he land somewhere else?  If the Cubs can beat out the Braves, Dodgers and Yankees for Peavy then the possible blow of losing Dempster would be softened.

 BDD Writer Comments

On retaining Rich Harden:
“Although nothing should lift the concerns of Harden’s inability to dodge injury, there’s nothing on the open market at Harden’s ability that will cost just $7 million.  This one was easy.” - Brian Joseph

On losing McGehee: 
“McGehee’s path was blocked with the Cubs at first, third and catcher… they won’t miss him.” - Michael Street

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3. New York Mets

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (2): Re-signed Fernando Tatis to a one year, $1.7-million contract and exercised the $12-million option on Carlos Delgado for ‘09
Free Agents (11): Moises Alou, Tony Armas, Luis Ayala, Damion Easley, Orlando Hernandez, Pedro Martinez, Ramon Martinez, Trot Nixon, Oliver Perez, Ricardo Rincon, Matt Wise

Summary: Although pitching is the team’s first priority according to GM Omar Minaya the club brought back the aging but still productive Delgado early on.  The club also lined up some roster depth by bringing back ‘08 surprise Tatis.  The Mets have serious needs throughout the pitching staff and are likely to pony up big bucks to land a closer and are apparently are serious in their talks with the Rays to land one of their back-end of the rotation starters.  Other than Oliver Perez, their long list of free agents are not tough to replace and that includes formerly irreplaceable Pedro Martinez. 

BDD Writer Comments

On retaining Carlos Delgado:
“After that second half, riots would have ensued if not.” - Rob McQuown
“Keeping Delgado may cost the Mets an impact player like Teixeira.” - Joe Hamrahi
“Still kind of skeptical given his first half last season but overall the most logical move for first base.” - Bill Baer

On retaining Fernando Tatis:
“We’ll see if his comeback was for real.” - Joe Hamrahi
“Will Tatis stay healthy and continue his amazing comeback?  $1.7 million isn’t too much to pay to find out.” - Michael Street
“It will be fun to watch the regression.” - Bill Baer

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4. Milwaukee Brewers

Added (1): Claimed Casey McGehee off of waivers from the Chicago Cubs
Lost (1): Joe Dillion claimed by Oakland Athletics
Retained (1): Exercised $10-million option on Mike Cameron for ‘09
Free Agents (10): Russell Branyan, Craig Counsell, Ray Durham, Eric Gagne, Gabe Kapler, Mike Lamb, Guillermo Mota, CC Sabathia, Ben Sheets, Brian Shouse

Summary: The Brewers locked up Mike Cameron for one more year but they have shark-sized fish to fry with CC Sabathia on the open market.  Reports say the club has made a healthy offer for their team’s MVP after a huge trade deadline acquisition which is good to see after the huge amount of fan support the club received for laying it all on the line for a shot at the postseason.  Beyond Sabathia, the Brewers have a handful of important free agents that might be gone if they open up the purse strings to keep Sabathia in Milwaukee.  Two other minor moves rounded out Milwaukee’s offseason to date.

BDD Writer Comments

On Mike Cameron:
“Bad fit for club’s left/right balance but a good, under appreciated player.” - Rob McQuown
“Not a huge fan but still productive.  Probably more valuable to Brewers than others.” - Joe Hamrahi
“Look at the free agent CF market… slim pickings.” - Bill Baer
“Cameron’s more valuable on D but his occasional hot streaks don’t hurt the Brew Crew, either.” - Michael Street
“A much better addition if the Brewers find an answer at the top of the lineup and move Cameron into the six or seven hole in the lineup.” - Brian Joseph

On Casey McGehee:
“The offensively minded McGehee looks like a good fit at the Brewers’ gaping hole at third.” - Michael Street

On Joe Dillon:
“Nice versatile player.” - Rob McQuown
“Plenty of utility infielders where Dillon came from.” - Michael Street

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5. San Diego Padres

Added (1): Claimed Travis Denker off waivers from San Francisco Giants
Lost (0)
Retained (1): Exercised $9-million option on Brian Giles for ‘09
Free Agents (3): Michael Barrett, Trevor Hoffman, Mark Prior

Summary: Although bringing back Giles who had a solid ‘08 season helps keep a position filled, the more intriguing news to come out of San Diego was the club’s shopping of ace Jake Peavy.  The ‘07 Cy Young Award winner has lifted his no-trade clause for a few teams and the top candidates right now for Peavy’s services are the Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs with a few other teams still in the running.  The club is seeking to lower their payroll and build through trades which might see Khalil Greene on the way out in San Diego, too.

BDD Writer Comments

On retaining Brian Giles:
“He sure didn’t look like a 14-season, 37-year-old veteran in ‘09.  If the club can get Giles to remove his no-trade clause near the deadline, this might be a win-win for the Padres if they flounder again.” - Brian Joseph
“His value has diminished but is still more productive than most of the San Diego lineup.” - Joe Hamrahi

On adding Travis Denker:
“Outstanding minor league stats for a middle infielder.” - Rob McQuown
“Denker’s a heck of a hitter who may just be what the Padres need at 2B long-term.” - Michael Street
“Hard to believe the Giants can allow young talent to escape the nest.  However, I’ll say the addition is a can’t lose for the Padres.  At 23, Denker’s got a lot of years to make this waiver claim work out.” - Brian Joseph

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6. Boston Red Sox

Added (1): Claimed Virgil Vazquez off waivers from Detroit Tigers
Lost (0)
Retained (1): Exercised $4-million option on Tim Wakefield for ‘09
Free Agents (9): Paul Byrd, Sean Casey, Bartolo Colon, Alex Cora, Mark Kotsay, David Ross, Curt Schilling, Mike Timlin, Jason Varitek

Summary: GM Theo Epstein expects his club to be frugal shoppers this offseason.  Does that put them out of the running for CC Sabathia, Mark Teixeira, A.J. Burnett and the other free agents expected to bring in more than their actual worth as most free agents do?  Another concern is if they can bring Jason Varitek back into the mix since Varitek’s agent, Scott Boras, plans to play hardball with the Sox in negotiations.  The list of free agents in Boston is long but the overall productivity of the list is thin and replacable.  Of all of the potential free agents on the Red Sox, Boston wasted no time in exercising the option on the most productive of the bunch — Tim Wakefield – but let’s not forget he is 42.

BDD Writer Comments

On retaining Tim Wakefield:
“Cheap price for 200 innings.” - Matt Sisson
“The ageless one continues to be steady.” - Joe Hamrahi
“Just means the Red Sox don’t have to shop for another pitcher.” - Bill Baer
“Workmanlike and mediocre come to mind with Wakefield.  About 10 years removed from anything better than average but at least he’s consistently mediocre.” - Brian Joseph

On claiming Virgil Vazquez:
“A soft-tosser still learning control, Vazquez was deemed as a flyer worth taking by the Sox.  He’s little more than that at this point.” - Michael Street

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7. Toronto Blue Jays

Added (5): Claimed Bryan Bullington off of waivers from Cleveland Indians, claimed Kelvin Jimenez off of waivers from Saint Louis Cardinals, claimed Angel Sanchez off of waivers from Kansas City Royals, claimed Les Walrond off of waivers from Philadelphia Phillies, signed Adam Loewen to a Minor League contract
Lost (0)
Retained (1): Exercised $2.5-million option on Rod Barajas for ‘09
Free Agents (4): A.J. Burnett, John Parrish, Brad Wilkerson, Gregg Zaun

Summary: The Blue Jays went with a “throw it against the wall and hope it sticks” strategy with four waiver claims and the signing of former Orioles pitcher turned position player Adam Loewen who is trying to make a “Rick Ankiel” type conversion to the field.  The Blue Jays exercised the option on catcher Rod Barajas which allows more flexibility in their negotiations with veteran Gregg Zaun who would likely be a backup if he’s re-signed.  The biggest news north of the border was the expected opting out of his contract by A.J. Burnett.  If the Blue Jays can’t bring Burnett back that’s a big gaping hole in the rotation for a team otherwise on the rise in the toughest division in baseball.

BDD Writer Comments

On signing Adam Loewen:
“It’s a good story… so why not?” - Brian Joseph
“You never know.” - Bill Baer

On claiming Bryan Bullington:
“Toronto could have done worse.  They could have done better, too.” - Michael Street

On claiming Angel Sanchez:
“If he lives up to his defensive reputation, this is a steal.” - Rob McQuown

On claiming Kelvin Jimenez:
“What do they see in Jimenez?  Seems like a waste of a roster spot.” - Michael Street

On claiming Les Walrond:
“Another mysterious pick-up by Toronto.  They seem to be gambling with practically every move.” - Michael Street

On retaining Rod Barajas:
“He’s worth it if he can get his OBP above .300.” - Bill Baer
“If Barajas’ option means Gregg Zaun’s day’s are numbered that means the loss of one hell of an official website from the Toronto Blue Jays roster. [GREGG ZAUN’S WEBSITE]” - Brian Joseph

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8. Texas Rangers

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (1): Exercised $6.2-million option on Hank Blalock for ‘09
Free Agents (4): Milton Bradley, Jason Jennings, Ramon Vazquez, Jamey Wright

Summary: The Rangers have done nothing to fix their huge pitching issues but they did exercise their option on Hank Blalock.  Texas plans to use Blalock as their DH but he’s a versatile option if healthy depending on what happens with free agents Milton Bradley and Ramon Vazquez.  The Rangers have a long, uphill climb to fix their pitching woes but have advised that they will tread cautiously in the free agent pitching market.

BDD Writer Comments

On retaining Hank Blalock:
“Upon return [from injury last year], played well.” - Joe Hamrahi
“Don’t expect Ramon Vazquez to OPS+ 111 again.” - Bill Baer
“Blalock’s prospect status has been ruined by injury but Texas might as well give him one more year to arrive.” - Michael Street
“Although the club says Blalock will be their DH, there’s more to this move.  The Rangers have him as insurance if they can’t re-sign Bradley or Vazquez and could trade him for pitching help if they bring back both.” - Brian Joseph

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9. Oakland Athletics

Added (1): Claimed Joe Dillon off of waivers from Milwaukee Brewers
Lost (1): Lost Dan Meyer to Florida Marlins on a waiver claim
Retained (1): Re-signed Mark Ellis to a two-year, $11-million contract
Free Agents (4): Emil Brown, Alan Embree, Keith Foulke, Frank Thomas

Summary: The Athletics locked up second baseman Mark Ellis for two years and declined Alan Embree’s ‘09 option which puts his possibility on a return to Oakland as remote.  The other two moves are likely to have little effect on the Major League club. 

BDD Writer Comments

On re-signing Mark Ellis:
“Generous of Ellis to sell himself so cheaply.” - Rob McQuown
“Given the A’s wealth of second base prospects… why?” - Bill Baer
“Ellis has always been solid defensively and he has good offensive years every other season in the Majors so this is probably a good move for at least ‘09.” - Brian Joseph

On losing Dan Meyer:
“This gets a negative only because they finally realized their loss in trading Tim Hudson when they lost Meyer.” - Michael Street

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10. Florida Marlins

Added (2): Picked up Leo Nunez in a trade with the Kansas City Royals, claimed Dan Meyer off of waivers from the Oakland Athletics
Lost (2): Traded Mike Jacobs to Kansas City, lost Sergio Mitre to the New York Yankees via free agency
Retained (1): Re-signed Wes Helms to two-year, $1.9-million contract
Free Agents (4): Luis Gonzalez, Mark Hendrickson, Paul Lo Duca, Arthur Rhodes

Summary: The Marlins sent Mike Jacobs and his 30-plus homers and awful on-base percentage to Kansas City in exchange for reliever Leo Nunez.  For Florida, it might be a glimpse into their offseason as they are expected to be active in the free agent market and possibly more active traders.  The club needs a catcher and some defensive help and have already thrown out reliever Kevin Gregg and lefty Scott Olsen as trade bait.  This club doesn’t spend cash so they need to be smart with every move they make and so far the reviews are positive for their flip of Jacobs for Nunez.  We’ll see if the trend continues.

BDD Writer Comments

On acquisition Leo Nunez:
“Where did the K’s go for Nunez?” - Rob McQuown
“Good move for both teams.” - Joe Hamrahi
“One of the better unknown non-closing bullpen arms out there.” - Bill Baer
“Nunez makes a strong Marlins pen stronger though it’s hard to know if he’s worth losing Jacobs over.” - Michael Street
“Not a bad bounty for a move put into motion to dump a little salary.  Hopefully, Nunez won’t be too good because the Marlins will be forced to move him before they have to pay him.” - Brian Joseph

On claiming Dan Meyer:
“Another formerly great arm.  Why not?” - Rob McQuown
“The Marlins need a bullpen lefty and Meyer was once the core of the Tim Hudson deal.  He’s less of the core and more of the pits lately.” - Michael Street

On the trade of Mike Jacobs:
“A role player with an OBP that low.  They weren’t going to pay him anyway.” - Rob McQuown
“With so many other players who know how to strike out with aplomb, the Marlins could afford the loss of Jacobs, particularly with Gaby Sanchez, a 1B who knows how to take a walk, behind him.” - Michael Street
“The Fish lose one of their two regular left-handed bats. Now it’s just Hermida.” - Bill Baer

On losing Sergio Mitre:
“Too risky at the salary for the low $ Fish.” - Rob McQuown
“It was time to move on from Mitre, who underwent TJ surgery. The Marlins would have been silly to keep him.” - Michael Street
“Replaceable.” - Bill Baer

On re-signing Wes Helms:
“Cheap salary but this sort of production can be had for the minimum.” - Rob McQuown
“Can’t be more than a spot player due to his awful glove.  The Phillies kept the right guy when the ditched Helms and kept Greg Dobbs in ‘08… if this were softball maybe this would be more than a non-move.” - Brian Joseph
“Probably a waste of bench space especially at about $1 million per season. Just use a prospect.” - Bill Baer

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11. St. Louis Cardinals

Added (1): Claimed Charlie Manning off of waivers from the Washington Nationals
Lost (2): Kelvin Jimenez claimed off of waivers by the Toronto Blue Jays, Josh Phelps signed Minor League contract with San Francisco Giants
Retained (2): Re-signed Kyle Lohse to four-year, $41-million contract, re-signed Jason LaRue to one-year, $950,000 contract
Free Agents (7): Jason Isringhausen, Cesar Izturis, Braden Looper, Felipe Lopez, Mark Mulder, Russ Springer, Ron Villone

Summary: Last year, the St. Louis Cardinals took advantage of Kyle Lohseafter he waited too long to sign a deal and were rewarded with an excellent year from Lohse.  In return, the Cardinals plunked down $41 million to keep Lohse in St. Louis through his 33rd birthday.  The Cardinals also retained the services of Jason LaRue as the club’s back-up catcher.  Three other minor moves rounded up the Cardinals early Hot Stove moves.  The Cardinals were heavily rumored to be interested in Matt Holliday from the Rockies but that died out over the weekend.

BDD Writer Comments

On re-signing Kyle Lohse:
“LOL.” - Bill Baer
“For two consecutive years, Lohse has been most similar to Jeff Suppan.  If that’s accurate, the four-year deal should bring a 50-39 record and an escalating ERA that should bottom out in the 4.50-plus range in the last year of the deal.” - Brian Joseph
“Somehow Dave Duncan continues to do wonders.” - Joe Hamrahi
“Well below market rate — easily tradeable if they choose.” - Rob McQuown
“A good groundball pitcher on a good defensive team, he’ll eat innings at a better-than-average rate.” - Michael Street

On re-signing Jason LaRue:
“What?!” - Rob McQuown
“He’ll caddy for Yadi, not a bad job to have for almost $1M per. ” - Michael Street
“Move is the opposite of exciting.  Even when Sal Fasano gets signed somewhere, at least his moustache earns a little chatter.” - Brian Joseph

On losing Josh Phelps:
“Perfect PH plus back-up first base and catcher.  Why let him go?” - Rob McQuown
“What, he had Pujols worried or something? No place to go for him, either in the organization or, perhaps, in the majors.” - Michael Street

On losing Kelvin Jimenez:
“By all accounts a pretty good guy, he’s just not a good pitcher.” - Michael Street

On claiming Charlie Manning:
“A promising lefty who might one day make an impact, but he’ll have to face big-league pitching to know for sure.” - Michael Street

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12. Chicago White Sox

Added (1): Signed Jayson Nix to a one-year, $400,000 contract
Lost (0)
Retained (0)
Free Agents (6): Orlando Cabrera, Joe Crede, Ken Griffey Jr., Toby Hall, Horacio Ramirez, Juan Uribe

Summary: The White Sox added an Olympic medalist (Jayson Nix) and ended the Ken Griffey Jr. experiment — likely for good.  They also passed on Toby Hall at his option price but have expressed interest in bringing him back.  The Sox have also floated names like Paul Konerko, Jim Thome, Nick Swisher and Jermaine Dye as trade bait.  With Alexei Ramirez headed to short possibly, the club feels confident that Nix and Chris Getz can handle second but that doesn’t mean Chicago won’t shop those names for a possible replacement at second.  Disclaimer: All rumors involving a need at second require the mention of Baltimore’s Brian Roberts.

BDD Writer Comments

On signing Jayson Nix:
“Better than nothing.” - Bill Baer
“Unless they move Alexei Ramirez to the outfield, Nix is little more than a capable bench player.” - Michael Street
“A low-cost replacement for Uribe at worst.” - Rob McQuown

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13. New York Yankees

Added (1): Signed Sergio Mitre to a Major/Minor League contract
Lost (0)
Retained (0)
Free Agents (9): Bobby Abreu,Jason Giambi,Damaso Marte,Chad Moeller,Mike Mussina,Carl Pavano,Andy Pettitte,Sidney Ponson, Ivan Rodriguez

Summary: The Yankees haven’t done much yet but they did add Sergio Mitre who is a gamble but if there is a club that can afford to gamble, it’s the Yankees.  They are leaning toward offering free agent Bobby Abreu arbitration and veteran pitcher Andy Pettitte wants back into the Bronx.  The Yanks also declined options on Jason Giambi, Damaso Marte and Carl Pavano.  All three are unlikely to return to pinstripes.

BDD Writer Comments

On signing Sergio Mitre:
“League-average pitching at the back of the rotation can’t hurt. Or he can throw some long relief.” - Bill Baer
“They won’t see him until midseason as he recovers from TJ surgery, but the Yankees need bullpen arms.” - Michael Street
“The Yanks can afford to gamble on a good 2010.” - Rob McQuown

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14. Detroit Tigers

Added (0)
Lost (2): Todd Jones retired, Virgil Vazquez claimed off of waivers by Boston Red Sox
Retained (0)
Free Agents (5): Kyle Farnsworth,Casey Fossum, Freddy Garcia,Edgar Renteria, Vance Wilson

Summary: How can the Tigers make the top half of our first rankings despite losing two players and adding and retaining none?  Consider most of our writers see the loss of Todd Jones to retirement as a plus for the team.  Too harsh?  Considering that Jones blew four of his last eight save opportunities and posted an 8.03 ERA in his last 14 appearances, they may be on to something.  No matter what, the Tigers need to find answers for their bullpen issues if they want to dig out of the AL Central cellar in ‘09.  A solid catcher wouldn’t hurt, either.

BDD Writer Comments

On the retirement of Todd Jones:
“Addition by subtraction.” - Bill Baer
“An old, stinky security blanket that made the sentimental Leyland believe he had a closer. Time for the Tigers’ bullpen to grow up.” - Michael Street

On losing Virgil Vazquez:
“The Tigers let a bullpen arm get away?!” - Rob McQuown
“The Tigers are thin on pitching prospects, so any loss is a bit of a negative, but Vasquez is too much of a question mark to know for sure.” - Michael Street

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15. San Francisco Giants

Added (1): Signed Josh Phelps to Minor League contract
Lost (1): Lost Travis Denker to San Diego Padres on waivers
Retained (0)
Free Agents (2): Rich Aurilia, Omar Vizquel

Summary: Two minor moves are unlikely to shake the foundation of the San Francisco Giants.  The building blocks are in place for this team so whatever they can do this offseason to continue moving in the right direction is obviously good.  The best part of the team is they have a talented young arm to build around in Tim Lincecum.  Not a bad start.

BDD Writer Comments

On signing Josh Phelps:
“Any impact this former prospect might have is diluted by all the minor-league depth SF has at 1B. Things that make you go ‘Huh?’” - Michael Street

On losing Travis Denker:
“Losing Denker’s potential impact is mitigated by the presence of the electrifying Eugenio Velez.” - Michael Street
“What were the Giants thinking?” - Rob McQuown

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16. Houston Astros

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (1): Signed LaTroy Hawkins to a one-year, $3.75-million contract
Free Agents (4): Brad Ausmus, Doug Brocail, Mark Loretta, Randy Wolf

Summary: The Astros retained one of the two trade deadline acquisitions that many were critical of with only Randy Wolf remaining from GM Ed Wade’s deadline gambles.  The return of LaTroy Hawkins provides manager Cecil Cooper with one more adequate arm out of the ‘pen.  Other than Hawkins and Wolf, pitching is definitely in the Astros’ sights.  They were involved in early Peavy rumors but have seemingly dropped out with not much to offer from their depleted farm system.

BDD Writer Comments

On signing LaTroy Hawkins:
“It’s fun to look back on the much criticized moves of the trade deadline by the Astros and say, ‘I told you so.’” - Brian Joseph
“Underrated because of his previous failures as a closer.” - Bill Baer
“Which Hawk will the Astros get, the one whose ERA tickled 5 with the Yanks, or the one who had a sub-1.00 ERA with the Astros? Close to $4M is too much to find out.” - Michael Street
“Too much for a fluky few innings.” - Rob McQuown

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17. Cleveland Indians

Added (0)
Lost (1): Lost Bryan Bullington to Toronto Blue Jays on a waiver claim
Retained (1): Exercised option on Jamey Carroll for ‘09
Free Agents (4): Brendan Donnelly, Scott Elarton,Sal Fasano,Juan Rincon

Summary: The second half set up the Cleveland faithful for a hopeful ‘09.  So far, their free agent list isn’t overwhelming on the talent end but the Indians aren’t expected to spend a ton of cash without making sure they are 100% sure of the move.

BDD Writer Comments

On losing Bryan Bullington:
“There’s still potential here, but Bullington hasn’t lived up to it yet.” - Michael Street

On retaining Jamey Carroll:
“Better than nothing.” - Bill Baer
“Useful player… too expensive.” - Rob McQuown
“With the bad luck Cleveland’s had at the keystone, this was an understandable move, but Indians fans hope Carroll isn’t a starter.” - Michael Street

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18. Atlanta Braves

Added (0)
Lost (1): Lost Jairo Cuevas on a waiver claim by Kansas City Royals
Retained (0)
Free Agents (8): Elmer Dessens, Tom Glavine, Mike Hampton, Jorge Julio, Will Ohman, John Smoltz, Julian Tavarez

Summary: Three of the five Braves projected starters from ‘08 are free agents and none of them contributed as much as many experts expected.  It’s no wonder Atlanta is the front-runners for the services of Jake Peavy.  The move will possibly cost the Braves Yunel Escobar but that wouldn’t settle well with Peavy who wants to play with a contender.  The other possibility is young prospect Tommy Hanson which wouldn’t settle well with the Atlanta farm system and possibly the Braves in the future if Hanson lives up to his potential.

BDD Writer Comments

On signing Jairo Cuevas:
“Time to cut bait on Cuevas. This might sting someday, but it likely won’t.” - Michael Street

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19. Washington Nationals

Added (0)
Lost (1): Lost Charlie Manning by waiver claim to St. Louis Cardinals
Retained (1): Wily Mo Pena exercised player option to stay with club in ‘09
Free Agents (5): Aaron Boone, Chad Cordero, Pete Orr, Odalis Perez, Ryan Wagner

Summary: Is it a bad sign when three players opt for free agency and refuse assignment?  If so then things are bad in Washington.  However, Wily Mo Pena snapped up his option to return to the team in ‘09 so not everyone is running for the hills.  Neither did Dmitri Young who accepted his Minor League assignment instead of running for greener pastures.  Not many were surprised by Young’s decision to not run.  On the shopping list for the Nationals are a pitcher and a slugger.  They wouldn’t mind inking Ryan Zimmerman to a long-term deal, either. 

BDD Writer Comments

On retaining Wily Mo Pena:
“.243/.267 OBP/SLG in 195 AB last season.” - Bill Baer
“2009 is Pena’s make-or-break year, and will determine whether his $5M option was a waste or a steal.” - Michael Street
“Rolling the dice on his shoulder.” - Rob McQuown

On losing Charlie Manning:
“In a way, any pitching loss by Washington is significant, though Manning actually looks like a decent pitcher.” - Michael Street

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20. Philadelphia Phillies

Added (0)
Lost (1): Lost Les Walrond by waiver claim to Toronto Blue Jays
Retained (0)
Free Agents (5): Pat Burrell, Tom Gordon, Jamie Moyer, Rudy Seanez, So Taguchi

Summary: No big moves yet for the defending champs but the pending loss of Pat Burrell to free agency creates a decent hole in right field although some feel the club can fill it at a much cheaper price than Burrell will run should they want to retain his services.  The Phillies also cut ties with So Taguchi who is probably not returning to Philadelphia.  The biggest challenge facing the Phillies is their soon-to-be bulging payroll thanks to a pile of arbitration-eligible players who are about to cash in big time before the start of the ‘09 season.  Of their few free agents, the Phillies are the #1 choice for both Burrell and Jamie Moyer who would both like to return.  Moyer probably will but Burrell’s big contract will be tougher to swallow.

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21. Tampa Bay Rays

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (0)
Free Agents (4): Rocco Baldelli, Cliff Floyd, Eric Hinske, Trever Miller

Summary: The only news coming out of the American League champs were the declining of the options of Cliff Floyd and Trever Miller and the possibility of the Rays trading one of their back-end of the rotation starters to make room for David Price.  So far, Edwin Jackson and Andy Sonnanstine have hit the rumor mill with the New York Mets as the team frequently rumored as the club with the most interest but when it comes to pitching, it’s not hard to find someone seeking a fresh arm.  There is a lot of early interest in free agent Rocco Baldelli who might not return to Tampa in ‘09.

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22. Seattle Mariners

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (0)
Free Agents (3): Willie Bloomquist, Miguel Cairo, Raul Ibanez

Summary: No moves yet for the Mariners who are probably going to do what they can to purge some salary to at least prevent a repeat of another 100-loss, $100-million payroll season.  The Mariners will be in the market for some offense, especially if Raul Ibanez rolls out of town as expected.  It’s possible Ken Griffey Jr. makes a return because there is interest on his part but the reaction from media and fans on a possible return is mixed.  With so much of the payroll already earmarked for players currently under contract, it is doubtful the Mariners will be major players in the free agent market.  The one free agent name that keeps surfacing tied to Seattle is unproven Japanese import Junichi Tazawa.  With many other teams focused in multiple directions, the Mariners could sneak in and grab Tazawa.

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23. Pittsburgh Pirates

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (0)
Free Agents (4): Chris Gomez, Jason Michaels, Doug Mientiewicz, Luis Rivas

Summary: The Pirates aren’t expected to be in the running for any big names and it might take them a bit of time to get moving in the free agent market.  Translation:  While Pittsburgh is going to be active in the free agent market at some point in the offseason, they are probably going to scoop up the rest of the league’s table scraps instead of any of the marquee names.  How active the Pirates will be will be determined by the early signees who establish this year’s market value as the budget-aware club does their best to boost their roster and get value for every dollar spent.

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24. Minnesota Twins

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained(0)
Free Agents (4): Adam Everett, Eddie Guardado, Nick Punto, Dennys Reyes

Summary: The Twins were so close to the postseason but came up one play-in game with the Chicago White Sox short.  Now, the Twins need to focus on bolstering their bullpen and picking up some infield help.  Third base needs an upgrade and the team is often linked to rumors regarding free agent Casey Blake.  The club’s need in the infield means they may try to keep Nick Punto under wraps before their exclusive window closes to negotiate with him although it looks like Punto will seek out his value on the open market.  Hard to dismiss the team that survived the loss of Johan Santana and Torii Hunter in ‘08 to almost make it to the postseason.  Now, all they have to do is focus on getting better.

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25. Arizona Diamondbacks

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (0)
Free Agents (6): Tony Clark, Juan Cruz, Adam Dunn, David Eckstein, Orlando Hudson, Brandon Lyon

Summary: Arizona is not expected to spend a ton of money this offseason which means that it is doubtful Adam Dunn or Orlando Hudson will return in ‘09.  Also, they are still waiting to see if Randy Johnson will file for free agency and then the Diamondbacks must decide whether or not to bring back the “Big Unit”.  Whatever the D-backs decide, their fans are hoping to not have a repeat of watching their promising club squander an early hot start only to sit at home watching the postseason from home in October.

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26. Cincinnati Reds

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (0)
Free Agents (9): Jeremy Affeldt, Paul Bako, Josh Fogg, Jerry Hairston Jr., Mike Lincoln, Kent Mercker, Corey Patterson, Javier Valentin, David Weathers

Summary: The length of their free agent list might be surprising but the talent-level of the unsigned Reds are nothing special for the most part.  The Reds want a right-handed outfielder and right-handed bats in general.  Cincinnati is more likely to improve through a trade rather than through a free agent move but it’s tough to say exactly how things will play out for the club as they build around their young core of players.  One name thrown out in early rumors was oft-injured Cardinals’ cast-off Mark Mulder who probably will be very cheap to roll the dice on. 

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27. Los Angeles Dodgers

Added (0)
Lost (0)
Retained (0)
Free Agents (13): Joe Beimel, Gary Bennett, Casey Blake, Rafael Furcal, Nomar Garciaparra, Jason Johnson, Jeff Kent, Derek Lowe, Greg Maddux, Chan Ho Park, Brad Penny, Manny Ramirez, Mark Sweeney

Summary: Of all the teams facing offseason decisions, it’s tough to argue that the Dodgers have the most difficult road.  The club already offered to make Manny Ramirez the second highest paid player in baseball but the offer was a few years short of what Ramirez is looking for so it might not be enough to land the team’s second half MVP and main reason they made the playoffs following the three-way trade deadline deal that sent Manny to L.A.  The team is also going to lose Greg Maddux who is probably going to retire and faces decisions on 11 other players who they may or may not bring back for ‘09.  If the Dodgers can ink Ramirez, the road smooths out considerably but there are still a lot of decisions to be made.

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28. Colorado Rockies

Added (0)
Lost (1): Lost Jayson Nix via free agency to the Chicago White Sox
Retained (0)
Free Agents (6): Brian Fuentes, Matt Herges, Livan Hernandez, Adam Melhuse, Scott Podsednik, Glendon Rusch

Summary: The Rockies want pitching and have already dangled Matt Holliday out there to see what he’ll bring in return.  Rumors heated up pointing toward a Holliday-to-St. Louis deal but that collapsed.  Holliday isn’t the only Rockie on the trading block with Willy Taveras and Garrett Atkins also up for discussion.  Also, signs point toward Brian Fuentes not making a return to Colorado in ‘09.  The Rockies have lost one player who failed to live up to expectations in ‘08 but still has a little bit of talent in Jayson Nix.  Not much else but rumors so far, here.

BDD Writer Comments

On losing Jayson Nix:
“Easily replaceable.” - Bill Baer
“The Rockies covered their second-base holes with a ton of options, and Nix was one that didn’t work out.” - Michael Street
“He can pick it, and the Rox have a hole at 2b.  Why?” - Rob McQuown

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29. Baltimore Orioles

Added (0)
Lost (1): Lost Adam Loewen to Toronto Blue Jays via free agency
Retained (0)
Free Agents (4): Juan Castro, Alex Cintron, Kevin Millar, Jay Payton

Summary: On the surface, the loss of former first-round draft choice Adam Loewen north of the border wasn’t much.  Especially given the fact that Loewen was drafted as a pitcher and can no longer do so without another major surgery.  However, the fact that Loewen so quickly decided to attempt a conversion to a position player somewhere other than where he began his career has some concerned over how potential free agents may perceive the Orioles.  The Orioles need a positive reputation heading into this offseason since they are eager to make a big impact.  Two names that pop up often are local favorites Mark Teixeira and A.J. Burnett.  Landing either would be a big step in the right direction.  Landing both would be even bigger.  With only Jeremy Guthrie as the only sure thing in the rotation, Baltimore needs a lot of starting help.  As the fifth place team behind the Rays, Red Sox, Yankees and Blue Jays, another offseason of missteps could set back the O’s for a lot longer than most.

BDD Writer Comments

On losing Adam Loewen:
“The PR alone is not good for the Orioles.  It was a sad day in Baltimore when Loewen went down again… it’ll be bittersweet if he’s able to make the conversion to a position player in another team’s uniform.” - Brian Joseph
“Could be somewhat useful for the Jays.” - Bill Baer
“It’s too soon to tell if this transition from pitcher to hitter will have an Ankiel-like impact in the field.” - Michael Street

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30. Kansas City Royals

Added (2): Picked up Mike Jacobs by trade with Florida Marlins, claimed Jairo Cuevas on waivers from Atlanta Braves
Lost (2): Traded Leo Nunez to Florida Marlins, lost Angel Sanchez to Toronto Blue Jays on a waiver claim
Retained (1): Club and Miguel Olivo agreed to exercise ‘09 option
Free Agents (2): Mark Grudzielanek, Kip Wells

Summary: The move sending Leo Nunez to Florida for Mike Jacobs was ill-received by the crew at BDD with a few hold-outs.  Thanks to the trade, Kansas City has landed on the bottom of BDD’s first offseason power rankings.  With the team’s budget fairly close to last year, it is expected that the Royals will do little this offseason meaning they may hover at or near the bottom of the offseason rankings throughout the Hot Stove League.  However, stranger things have happened and there’s always a possibility of the Royals not revealing their actual plans for the ‘08-’09 offseason.

BDD Writer Comments

On acquiring Mike Jacobs:
“Jacobs is a stopgap, but he’s a step up from their other first sackers.” - Michael Street
“Butler and Kila Monster cannot be too happy.” - Rob McQuown
“Not an overly impressive pick-up but at least the Royals have a shot at a 30-plus home run guy, something they haven’t had since 2000.” - Brian Joseph

On claiming Jairo Cuevas:
“Since they dropped Kip Wells to make this marginal move, this has to be viewed as a positive.” - Michael Street

On retaining Miguel Olivo:
“At worst, he’s trade-worthy at the price.” - Rob McQuown
“Olivo and Buck worked well, if unspectacularly, as a catching tandem, with Buck getting the bulk of the work.” - Michael Street

On losing Angel Sanchez:
“The emergence of Mike Aviles makes Sanchez expendable.” - Michael Street
“If he lives up to defensive reputation, this is a big loss.” - Rob McQuown

On losing Leo Nunez:
“One of their better pitchers on a staff that needs all the help it can get.” - Michael Street
“Why give him up?” - Bill Baer
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