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While Kyle Lohse remains unsigned, Tim Brown of Yahoo! Sports reports the right-hander could be closer to ready than you would think. Since this will prove a moot point if no one wants to sign him, let's take a look at the latest teams to be tied to the free agent.
ESPN's Jim Bowden checked in on a few of the clulbs that have been in some way connected to Lohse. The list is long, as a clear market for the starter's services has yet to develop despite the fact that Opening Day is less than two weeks away.
Bowden reports the Los Angeles Angels are maintaining that they do not have interest in Lohse. However, LA is unwilling to completely close the door on the possibility of signing the veteran.
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The Kansas City Royals have no interest in Lohse, while the Milwaukee Brewers do not want to surrender their 17th-overall pick in the upcoming MLB Draft. Brewers general manager Doug Melvin attributes this to Cole Hamels -- selected 17th overall in 2002 -- and CC Sabathia - taken 20th overall in '98.
There had been talk of the Cincinnati Reds' interest in Lohse, but GM Walt Jocketty told reporters -- including John Fay of The Cincinnati Enquirer -- that the team can't afford the right-hander.
In anticipation of signing his new contract, Lohse has been preparing for the regular season. Brown reports the 34-year-old has been throwing 90-pitch simulated games in Arizona.
Beyond the Reds, Royals, Brewers and Angels, Lohse has also been tied to the New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles and Texas Rangers.
