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James Shields has spent most of the offseason determining where he would like to play in 2015, and reportedly has several offers to consider. According to FOX Sports' Jon Morosi, Shields will determine where he will pitch in 2015 by the end of the week.
Both Shields and his agent were trying to maximize his value, which is a challenge just weeks before pitchers and catcher report to spring training. Shields reportedly had a $110 million offer from an unknown team, but may receive a deal for four or five years that is worth between $70-$80 million.
Shields, 33, posted a 3.21 ERA and 3.59 FIP in 227.0 innings pitched with the Royals last season. He is a durable option, and as a result, has continued to draw interest from teams seeking a front of the rotation arm.
USA Today's Bob Nightengale noted Shields has a strong preference to remain on the West Coast near his home in San Diego, and the list of potential suitors has grown as Shields has waited to make a decision.
St. Louis has shown interest in Shields, however Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch believes the Cardinals would still like to plug Carlos Martinez into the starting rotation and as a result would not have a rotation spot for Shields.
Joel Sherman of the New York Post reported the Yankees are not expected to be interested on Wednesday morning, and CBS Sports' Jon Heyman noted the Athletics are not in on Shields either. The Marlins are still speaking to Shields, according to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro.
Although Shields would ideally like to remain on the West Coast, neither the Angels nor the Giants have considered adding the former Royal. Kansas City has not discussed signing Shields, and Boston reportedly has not made him an offer.
Padres General Manager A.J. Preller is seeking a front of the rotation arm, although the club is also considering trading for Cole Hamels. The Dodgers could also be interested. Despite the industry expectation that he will sign this week, there is still no clear favorite to land Shields.