http://mlb.mlb.com/news/index.jsp?c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Major League Baseball News http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7692490&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:30:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7692490&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Let's go shopping: Free-agent market open As of 12:01 a.m. today, the free-agent market officially opened, meaning Major League clubs no longer have exclusive negotiating rights to the players who wore their uniforms in 2009. Doug Miller http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694222&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:25:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694222&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Roundup: Vizquel to light Hot Stove? Veteran shortstop Omar Vizquel is reportedly close to signing a one-year deal with the White Sox, which could serve to get the Hot Stove burning. Tom Singer http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686080&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:45:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686080&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Top prospects square off in AFL finale Phoenix, winner of the East Division, meets the West Division kingpin Peoria Javelinas in Saturday's Arizona Fall League championship game at 2:35 p.m. ET in Scottsdale Stadium. Tom Singer http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091115&content_id=7669426&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091115&content_id=7669426&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Lincecum's the one; that makes two Giants right-hander Tim Lincecum repeated as the National League Cy Young Award winner on Thursday, besting St. Louis right-handers Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. Chris Haft http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7687152&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7687152&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Cubs ink Grabow to two-year deal The Cubs signed free-agent pitcher John Grabow to a two-year, $7.5 million contract on Friday, securing a key player in the bullpen. Carrie Muskat http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694638&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:16:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694638&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Byrd's future home up in air Marlon Byrd wants to return to the Rangers, but early discussions between the team and his agent have not been particularly productive, leading to the distinct possibility that Byrd will be playing elsewhere in 2010. T.R. Sullivan http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7690566&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:07:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7690566&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Selig 'grateful' for baseball's popularity Commissioner Bud Selig was pleased that MLB's revenues remained the same despite a slight drop in attendance, most likely attributable to the struggling economy, and remains cautiously optimistic about the sport's standing. Barry M. Bloom http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7690258&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:28:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7690258&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb D-backs acquire Heilman from Cubs The D-backs bolstered their bullpen on Thursday acquiring right-hander Aaron Heilman from the Cubs in exchange for a pair of Minor Leaguers. Steve Gilbert http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691794&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:50:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691794&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Nats take precaution with Strasburg Nationals right-hander Stephen Strasburg has been scratched from Saturday's start in the Arizona Fall League championship game because of a twisted left knee, suffered during a Phoenix Desert Dogs workout Thursday afternoon. Bill Ladson http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7688728&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:30:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7688728&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Papi gearing up for big return in 2010 As evidenced by his wardrobe, David Ortiz didn't need to make an extra trip into Fenway Park on Thursday to promote his upcoming charity golf tournament. Ian Browne http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7693960&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7693960&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb White Sox reportedly near Vizquel deal The White Sox are close to signing Omar Vizquel to a one-year deal to be their backup infielder, according to FoxSports.com. Kelly Thesier http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7693740&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:42:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7693740&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Brewers taking a look at Halama The Brewers told John Halama's agent that they will have a scout in the stands for the former big league left-hander's start in the Dominican Republic on Friday night, and Halama hopes to strike a Minor League deal with Milwaukee by early next week. Adam McCalvy http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7693972&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:50:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7693972&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Dunn, Kennedy shine in AFL stint The Arizona Fall League, if nothing else, opens eyes. Strong performances in the desert can lead to big reputations -- just ask Tommy Hanson of the Braves -- and big opportunities. Anthony DiComo http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691340&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:07:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691340&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Lincecum makes history with second Cy With his second Cy Young Award, Tim Lincecum made some baseball history on Thursday, becoming just the 15th pitcher to win the award twice, joining a list populated by Hall of Famers and greats of the game. Matthew Leach http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7692568&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:21:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7692568&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Hunter to undergo sports hernia surgery Angels center fielder Torii Hunter is set to have surgery on Monday for a sports hernia. He is expected to be ready for Spring Training in February. Lyle Spencer http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7690920&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7690920&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Roundup: Busy day of Hot Stove buzz Here's a rundown of Thursday's biggest Hot Stove news, rumors and rumblings, which included Jason Bay reportedly turning down the Red Sox's four-year offer. Doug Miller http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691202&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:32:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691202&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Lowe trade not out of question for Braves Though the three years left on Derek Lowe's contract make it seem that he would be difficult to trade, a slim free-agent market and lower demands may make it more likely the righty would be dealt. Mark Bowman http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691832&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:33:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691832&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Lincecum's next goal: Get to Series At 25, Tim Lincecum is as vulnerable as any athlete to injuries, distractions or bad luck that can derail a career. But by winning the NL Cy Young Award in each of his first two full seasons, Lincecum inspires predictions about his future that sound more legitimate than hyperbolic. Chris Haft http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694586&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:10:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694586&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fall Classic memorabilia at Hall of Fame Artifacts from baseball's most memorable moments from this past postseason -- one that saw the Yankees notch their 27th World Series championship -- have been put on display at the Autumn Glory exhibit at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, N.Y. Alden Gonzalez http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7685336&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:11:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7685336&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Bay tops Epstein's free-agent priorities The past few weeks have been mostly about planning, dialogue and research for the Red Sox's front office, led by general manager Theo Epstein. Ian Browne http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7692290&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:29:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7692290&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb KC a contender for '12 All-Star Game The 2012 All-Star Game seems to be edging closer to a home in Kansas City. That was the indication after the Owners' Meeting on Thursday in Chicago, where Commissioner Bud Selig hinted that the newly renovated Kauffman Stadium would get the game. Dick Kaegel http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7692160&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:26:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7692160&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Giants unlikely to court Holliday, Bay On the eve of open free agency, Giants general manager Brian Sabean essentially ruled out any possibility of signing Matt Holliday or Jason Bay, regarded as the two most significant impact hitters available. Chris Haft http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7689210&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:33:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7689210&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Pettitte, Tatis round out filings The free-agent filing period ended with Andy Pettitte and Fernando Tatis opting to file on Thursday. A total of 171 players filed for free agency this fall. Alden Gonzalez http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7692236&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:56:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7692236&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Brewers-Braves deal would have hurdles FoxSports.com says the Brewers and Braves have discussed a Corey Hart-for-Derek Lowe swap. But the Braves aren't believed to have much interest in Hart, and it remains to be seen whether the Brewers likely have concerns about Lowe's bulky contract. Adam McCalvy http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7689300&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:10:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7689300&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Cards close, but miss on Cy Young Adam Wainwright and Chris Carpenter each were hoping to bring home the top pitching prize, but both saw the NL Cy Young Award go to Giants ace Tim Lincecum on Thursday. Matthew Leach http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686090&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686090&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Six-year free agents looking for jobs While most fans are concentrating on the potential destinations and paydays of the "big name" free agents, more than 500 Minor Leaguers have just become "six-year free agents," and they will also be looking for jobs. Lisa Winston http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7693374&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:05:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7693374&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Royals ink Campillo to Minors deal The Royals added pitching depth to the organization on Friday by signing former Braves right-hander Jorge Campillo to a Minor League deal for 2010. Dick Kaegel http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7688992&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:14:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7688992&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Ricketts attends first owners meeting Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts is the new kid on the block as far as Major League Baseball owners go, and he spent his first owners meetings soaking everything in. Carrie Muskat http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7682746&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:19:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7682746&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Henry receives corporate citizenship award Because he is introverted by nature, Red Sox owner John W. Henry's extensive work when it comes to community service -- be it in Boston or around the world -- often goes unnoticed. Ian Browne http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686244&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686244&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Mets ready to shop, spend on open market When the free-agent filing period ends at midnight ET Friday, the Mets and 29 other Holliday shoppers will be free to launch their pursuit of Matt Holliday, Jason Bay, John Lackey and any other of the more than 300 free agents. Marty Noble http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686052&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686052&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Angels focused on own free agents With six players eligible for bids when free agency's doors swing open at 9:01 p.m. PT on Thursday night, the Angels have much to resolve before forging on with the shaping of their 2010 roster. Lyle Spencer http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686702&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7686702&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Cards must prep for future without Holliday Whether by keeping Matt Holliday or by other means, the Cards must upgrade offensively. They also must decide on the last two starters, and whether to upgrade the 'pen. Matthew Leach http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7684008&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091118&content_id=7684008&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Yanks have different goals in free-agent market One year ago, right around this time, the Yankees officially shed more than $80 million in payroll, losing the expired contracts of Jason Giambi, Bobby Abreu, Andy Pettitte, Mike Mussina, Carl Pavano and Kyle Farnsworth to free agency. Anthony DiComo http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694506&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:55:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694506&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb White Sox add five to 40-man roster On Friday, the deadline for clubs to protect prospects from next month's Rule 5 Draft, the White Sox added five players to their 40-man roster. Kelly Thesier http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694202&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:22:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694202&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Nationals' coaching staff in place The Nationals have retained hitting coach Rick Eckstein, pitching coach Steve McCatty and third-base coach Pat Listach. The club also named John McLaren the bench coach, Jim Lett as bullpen coach and Dan Radison the first-base coach. Bill Ladson http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694526&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:24:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7694526&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Tigers add four players to roster The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has purchased the contracts of second baseman Scott Sizemore and shortstop Audy Ciriaco from Triple-A Toledo and first baseman/outfielder Ryan Strieby and outfielder Brennan Boesch from Double-A Erie. Anthony Castrovince http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691886&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:36:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091119&content_id=7691886&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Dodgers add three to 40-man roster The Dodgers added three prospects to their 40-man roster Thursday by purchasing the contracts of shortstop Ivan DeJesus, outfielder Trayvon Robinson and right-hander Kenley Jansen. Chris Haft http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7692750&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:20:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7692750&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Indians add seven to 40-man roster The Indians added seven players to their 40-man roster prior to Friday's deadline, thus protecting some of their top prospects from being selected in the Rule 5 Draft in December. Anthony Castrovince http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7692668&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:20:00 EDT http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7692668&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Marlins brass tour Target Field With Target Field in Minnesota set to open next spring, members of the Marlins' front office recently toured the stadium to get some ideas for the opening of their new park in 2012. Joe Frisaro