Rockies aggressive in pursuit of Gerardo Parra

The Rockies are being aggressive in their pursuit of free-agent outfielder Gerardo Parra, according to industry sources. It does not appear that the sides are very close to a deal at this point, as Parra is drawing interest from other clubs, including the Nationals and Angels, according to reports.

The outfield market is beginning to take shape after Alex Gordon (Royals) and Denard Span (Giants) have gone off the market in recent days, so Parra may sign soon. Top outfield options Justin Upton and Yoenis Cespedes also remain on the market, with the Rangers, Orioles and White Sox among the teams looking to make an outfield splash.

As of the Winter Meetings, Parra had 3-year offers on the table but was holding out for a 4-year offer. He has drawn interest from the Cubs, Royals and Giants at various points this offseason but has seen other outfielders fill the needs of those teams throughout the last month.

Parra, 28, split last season between the Brewers and Orioles, hitting .328/.452/.780 with 14 home runs in 155 games. He is considered an above-average defender who has the ability to play all three outfield positions and may serve as a cost-efficient alternative to Upton or Cespedes on the free-agent market.