Mariners, Indians among favorites to land Scott Baker

The Seattle Mariners and Cleveland Indians have emerged as the two most likely destinations for free agent pitcher Scott Baker, according to an industry source. The source notes that Baker is drawing interest from five to seven teams, and is likely to sign a minor league contract that includes a spring training invite.

Baker, 32, has reportedly been in search of a guaranteed major league contract this winter, but will likely have to settle for a deal as a non-roster invitee. He is "feeling better than he has in three years", according to the source, and will look to earn a job in a team's starting rotation during spring training.

In three starts with the Cubs last season, Baker allowed six earned runs in fifteen innings after being sidelined for almost two full years due to an elbow injury. He expressed interest in returning to the Cubs after the season, but is now likely to head back to the American League with either Seattle or Cleveland.

In eight seasons with the Twins (2005-2011) and Cubs (2013), Baker has a lifetime 63-48 record and 4.14 ERA in 166 major league appearances.