Thursday's Frosty Mug

Some things to read while waiting to see if you'll be able to get Trenni and the MLB Network in your area. Here's more on what the network will offer.

Ben Sheets appears to be the top story today: Jerry Crasnick has a nice piece on him at ESPN.com that touches on his injury history and mentions the Rangers and Astros as possible candidates to sign him. Baseball-Intellect rates Sheets the third best free agent, behind Manny Ramirez and CC Sabathia. Citi-Blog wants Sheets to be a Met.

On the subject of Sheets, I've added a new poll to see what you'd like the Brewers to offer him. Cast your vote today.

View From Bernie's Chalet wants Seth McClung to be the Brewers' next closer, now that Salomon Torres has retired. I'll have more on the bullpen later today, so be sure to check back after noon.

Between the Green Pillars is calling Bruce Seid's hiring as Director of Amateur Scouting "the biggest little hire of the week," and wants to make sure you didn't miss the significance. I guess I figured no one commented on it because I made a terrible joke in the Fanshot.

Tomorrow is the first day when free agents are allowed to talk money with other teams. Tom H. has a preview of the Sabathia sweepstakes. Before it gets too hot, let's see what else is on the stove:

D-Backs: Randy Johnson still has not filed for free agency, and is hoping to reach a deal to remain in Arizona.
Dodgers: The team is denying reports that they're listening to offers for C Russell Martin.
Marlins: The next Marlin on the move may be reliever Kevin Gregg, who spent much of the season as their closer before injuring his knee.
Padres: Could be on the verge of trading Jake Peavy to Atlanta for the Snorks.
Reds: David Weathers has not received a contract offer from the team yet, so he's assuming they're not interested in retaining him and preparing to move on.
White Sox: Jermaine Dye could be on the trading block, and team scouts are reportedly in Arizona watching Mets prospects play in the AFL.

Two interesting notes from the Mariners today: First, GM Jack Zduriencik is mulling over adding three more candidates to the list of potential hires before conducting second interviews. He says two former major league managers have been in touch regarding the opening. He stopped short of calling them "NY" and "WR."

Then, in a meeting with season ticket holders, Zduriencik said the Mariners are looking to create a "Department of Baseball Research." If they need someone who wanders around the web and gathers links every morning, I'll listen to offers.

Oh, and if you're out doing routine maintenance on your baseball field today, watch out for military training devices.

Drink up.