
Kaz Matsui and Kosuke Fukudome Cubs Update: I have had a lot of questions about this one. The Cubs are supposedly interested in Kaz Matsui, but I have not been able to confirm that report. From what I have heard, the Cubs plan to offer a three year deal to Matsui and play him at second and short. However, they still plan to play Mark DeRosa five days a week at second, third and in the outfield. This means that Ryan Theriot's time might be cut some, but Piniella is known for working in his players into games. As for Fukudome, the Cubs are "very interested" and plan to make an aggressive offer to him. Personally, I think they will look to sign Matsui in the next day or so and use him to lure Fukudome. Beyond that, they will work to sign Kerry Wood while exploring the market for other free agents, possibly Francisco Cordero. I have heard there is some interest in Hitoki Iwase, but again, nothing has been confirmed just yet. Despite the pending ownership sale, the Cubs plan to be fairly active.
What will the Mariners do?: The Mariners are in an interesting spot. They have made it known they plan to upgrade their pitching, and that is why I think might land Carlos Silva. They are looking into pitchers Jon Garland, Dan Haren, Dontrelle Willis, and Roy Oswalt, and will probably have to unload some of their top prospects to bring them in. As for other trades, they will probably look to trade Richie Sexson, maybe to the Rangers for Vicente Padilla to swap bad contracts.
What about the Rockies?: The Rockies are probably on the verge of losing both Matsui and Torrealba. They plan to talk with Michael Barrett this week, and may look in house for a second baseman. It is possible we could see Marcus Giles go to Colorado, or maybe Japanese infielder Tomohiro Nioka. As for a front of the line starter, they have been connected to the Athletics because of their solid farm system. They have several solid pitchers, who could land a pitcher like Dan Haren or Joe Blanton if packaged together. They have also been shopping around Brian Fuentes, but only to gauge his interest around the league.
If you would like an update on your team, just leave a comment and I will find out whatever I can.