The Athletics are entrenched in negotiations for Cuban phenom Aroldis Chapman, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
Several teams are still talks with Chapman, and sources believe that he is close to making a decision. Chapman has the incentive to sign before midnight Thursday - his bonus would be taxed if he signs in 2010 rather than 2009.
The Marlins, Mets, Yankees, and A's, among others, have monitored the Chapman sweepstakes all offseason long, even going as far to put formal offers on the table.
Chapman is probably looking at a four or five year deal worth 10-15 million dollars total.