A person familiar with the negotiations tells The Associated Press the Detroit Tigers and Johnny Damon have reached a preliminary agreement on an $8 million, one-year contract.
The person, who talked Saturday on condition of anonymity because the deal hasn’t been announced, says the contract is subject to a physical, which will be some time next week.
Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski confirmed Friday he had made a contract offer to the outfielder, but Dombrowski did not return messages seeking comment on Saturday.
The 36-year-old Damon hit .286 with 24 homers for the New York Yankees last season. He likely will bat leadoff for the Tigers, filling the void left when Detroit dealt Curtis Granderson to the Yankees.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
A person familiar with the negotiations tells The Associated Press the Detroit Tigers and Johnny Damon have reached a preliminary agreement on an $8 million, one-year contract.
The person, who talked Saturday on condition of anonymity because the deal hasn’t been announced, says the contract is subject to a physical, which will be some time next week.
Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski confirmed Friday he had made a contract offer to the outfielder, but Dombrowski did not return messages seeking comment on Saturday.
The 36-year-old Damon hit .286 with 24 homers for the New York Yankees last season. He likely will bat leadoff for the Tigers, filling the void left when Detroit dealt Curtis Granderson to the Yankees.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Sporting News staff reports
The comeback of free agent first baseman Carlos Delgado is on hold after he had a second hip surgery this week, according to a FOXSports.com
Delgado’s agent, David Sloane, said the first baseman will be out for four months but still plans to play this season.
"He felt, despite the time it would take, it was a better option for him to be the Carlos Delgado of old instead of an old Carlos Delgado," Sloan told FOX Sports.
Dr. Marc Philippon, who operated on Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez last spring, reconstructed the labrum in Delgado’s right hip and performed a micro-fracture procedure on the hip socket, according to FOX.
Delgado, 37, is 27 homers shy of 500 for his career. He played in only 26 games for the Mets last season before having season-ending hip surgery. He played winter ball in Puerto Rico and was working out while trying to latch on with a team but his hip was still bothering him.
Material from The Associated Press was used in this report.
Sporting News staff reports
The comeback of free agent first baseman Carlos Delgado is on hold after he had a second hip surgery this week, according to a FOXSports.com
Delgado’s agent, David Sloane, said the first baseman will be out for four months but still plans to play this season.
"He felt, despite the time it would take, it was a better option for him to be the Carlos Delgado of old instead of an old Carlos Delgado," Sloan told FOX Sports.
Dr. Marc Philippon, who operated on Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez last spring, reconstructed the labrum in Delgado’s right hip and performed a micro-fracture procedure on the hip socket, according to FOX.
Delgado, 37, is 27 homers shy of 500 for his career. He played in only 26 games for the Mets last season before having season-ending hip surgery. He played winter ball in Puerto Rico and was working out while trying to latch on with a team but his hip was still bothering him.
Material from The Associated Press was used in this report.
Free agency begins on March 5 and the draft — expanded to three days this year — starts on April 22, but there could be plenty of player movement before either of those dates.
Last year, tight end Kellen Winslow, linebacker Mike Vrabel, quarterbacks Matt Cassel and Sage Rosenfels and defensive backs Lito Sheppard and Anthony Henry all were traded in February. Several other players, including quarterback Jay Cutler, offensive tackle Jason Peters and tight end Tony Gonzalez, were dealt before the draft.
Here are 10 high-profile players who could wind up on the trading block — or the waiver wire — in the coming weeks:
Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin
The skinny: Boldin, who caught 84 passes for 1,024 yards last season, has wanted out of Arizona for a while now. The Cardinals may have enough receivers behind Larry Fitzgerald to fill the void if Boldin leaves.
Scout’s take: "Just from a talent standpoint, I would think teams would be interested in him because he’s still a No. 1 receiver on a lot of teams."
Panthers DE Julius Peppers
The skinny: He can be a dominating pass rusher — when he wants to be. Putting the franchise tag (more than $20 million) on Peppers again probably isn’t an option for the Panthers — unless they could turn around and trade him.
Scout’s take: "The main issue with Julius is he doesn’t give it to you all the time. His price tag is going to be astronomical. If I were to spend that kind of money, I’d hope that the guy’s motor was going to run hot all the time."
Brandon Marshall’s days in Denver could be numbered.
Broncos WR Brandon Marshall
The skinny: Marshall is one of only two players (Wes Welker is the other) to catch at least 100 passes in each of the last three seasons. But his distractive behavior sometimes overshadows his prolific production.
Scout’s take: "He’s a beast. The guy can turn a game and dominate a game. Obviously, the attitudinal and away-from-the-field issues are question marks."
Dolphins OLB Joey Porter
The skinny: After putting up an AFC-leading 17 1/2 sacks in ’08, Porter had less impact last season as he was reduced to a role player. The Dolphins already tried to cut him but had to hold off because of cap issues. He will go in March.
Scout’s take: "I think he’s hit the wall. Maybe he finds a 3-4 team where he can spot play."
Giants DE Osi Umenyiora
The skinny: It’s been a tough couple of years for Umenyiora, who missed the ’08 season with a knee injury and lost his starting job late in the ’09 season. He wants to be assured that he will be a starter, not a situational pass rusher.
Scout’s take: "He’s a talented rush guy who can flat-out come off the edge. I would think there would be a market for him just from a talent standpoint."
Jets FS Kerry Rhodes
The skinny: Rhodes, who lost his starting job to Eric Smith for two games last season, may not be Rex Ryan’s type of player. He reportedly is due to make $4.8 in 2010, including a $2 million roster bonus payable in March.
Scout’s take: "He’s physical. He blows people up coming downhill. There should be a market out there for him."
Rams QB Marc Bulger
The skinny: He is the NFL’s poster boy for battered quarterback syndrome. The Rams rewarded him with a lucrative contract after a career season in ’06, but his performance has deteriorated after being hit — and injured — so often.
Scout’s take: "He’s kind of come to the end. I see his role as coming in behind a young starter, where he can be a mentor and an emergency starter or insurance policy type of guy."
Seahawks DE Patrick Kerney
The skinny: The Seahawks need to upgrade a pass rush that accounted for only one sack in the final four games last season. Kerney is 33 and has lost a step, so he no longer looks like a good fit in Seattle.
Scout’s take: "In terms of playing at the level he’s played in the past, I don’t necessarily see that. You can start him, but you (should) play him in a rotation where he doesn’t have to take all the snaps."
Titans RB LenDale White
The skinny: White lost more than 30 pounds coming into last season as he expected to play a big part in the offense. But he became lost in the shadow of Chris Johnson’s run to 2,000 yards. Javon Ringer, a fifth-round pick in ’09, could make White expendable.
Scout’s take: "He lost all that weight last year and was supposed to be rejuvenated, but I really didn’t see it. I think there will be a spot for him somewhere in the league, but I don’t know if people will be knocking down his door."
Redskins RB Clinton Portis
The skinny: Injuries limited him to eight games in ’09, and even when he did play he was largely ineffective (494 rushing yards). Poor line play accounted for some of the problems, but there also is a perception that Portis’ work ethic has declined.
Scout’s take: "He’s not the back he was three or four years ago. He’s 28, but he’s a bit of an old 28. He’s got some miles on him. If you play him in a rotation, where you have another young back to go with him, he’s still got enough to help a team."
Dennis Dillon is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at ddillon@sportingnews.com.
Free agency begins on March 5 and the draft — expanded to three days this year — starts on April 22, but there could be plenty of player movement before either of those dates.
Last year, tight end Kellen Winslow, linebacker Mike Vrabel, quarterbacks Matt Cassel and Sage Rosenfels and defensive backs Lito Sheppard and Anthony Henry all were traded in February. Several other players, including quarterback Jay Cutler, offensive tackle Jason Peters and tight end Tony Gonzalez, were dealt before the draft.
Here are 10 high-profile players who could wind up on the trading block — or the waiver wire — in the coming weeks:
Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin
The skinny: Boldin, who caught 84 passes for 1,024 yards last season, has wanted out of Arizona for a while now. The Cardinals may have enough receivers behind Larry Fitzgerald to fill the void if Boldin leaves.
Scout’s take: "Just from a talent standpoint, I would think teams would be interested in him because he’s still a No. 1 receiver on a lot of teams."
Panthers DE Julius Peppers
The skinny: He can be a dominating pass rusher — when he wants to be. Putting the franchise tag (more than $20 million) on Peppers again probably isn’t an option for the Panthers — unless they could turn around and trade him.
Scout’s take: "The main issue with Julius is he doesn’t give it to you all the time. His price tag is going to be astronomical. If I were to spend that kind of money, I’d hope that the guy’s motor was going to run hot all the time."
Brandon Marshall’s days in Denver could be numbered.
Broncos WR Brandon Marshall
The skinny: Marshall is one of only two players (Wes Welker is the other) to catch at least 100 passes in each of the last three seasons. But his distractive behavior sometimes overshadows his prolific production.
Scout’s take: "He’s a beast. The guy can turn a game and dominate a game. Obviously, the attitudinal and away-from-the-field issues are question marks."
Dolphins OLB Joey Porter
The skinny: After putting up an AFC-leading 17 1/2 sacks in ’08, Porter had less impact last season as he was reduced to a role player. The Dolphins already tried to cut him but had to hold off because of cap issues. He will go in March.
Scout’s take: "I think he’s hit the wall. Maybe he finds a 3-4 team where he can spot play."
Giants DE Osi Umenyiora
The skinny: It’s been a tough couple of years for Umenyiora, who missed the ’08 season with a knee injury and lost his starting job late in the ’09 season. He wants to be assured that he will be a starter, not a situational pass rusher.
Scout’s take: "He’s a talented rush guy who can flat-out come off the edge. I would think there would be a market for him just from a talent standpoint."
Jets FS Kerry Rhodes
The skinny: Rhodes, who lost his starting job to Eric Smith for two games last season, may not be Rex Ryan’s type of player. He reportedly is due to make $4.8 in 2010, including a $2 million roster bonus payable in March.
Scout’s take: "He’s physical. He blows people up coming downhill. There should be a market out there for him."
Rams QB Marc Bulger
The skinny: He is the NFL’s poster boy for battered quarterback syndrome. The Rams rewarded him with a lucrative contract after a career season in ’06, but his performance has deteriorated after being hit — and injured — so often.
Scout’s take: "He’s kind of come to the end. I see his role as coming in behind a young starter, where he can be a mentor and an emergency starter or insurance policy type of guy."
Seahawks DE Patrick Kerney
The skinny: The Seahawks need to upgrade a pass rush that accounted for only one sack in the final four games last season. Kerney is 33 and has lost a step, so he no longer looks like a good fit in Seattle.
Scout’s take: "In terms of playing at the level he’s played in the past, I don’t necessarily see that. You can start him, but you (should) play him in a rotation where he doesn’t have to take all the snaps."
Titans RB LenDale White
The skinny: White lost more than 30 pounds coming into last season as he expected to play a big part in the offense. But he became lost in the shadow of Chris Johnson’s run to 2,000 yards. Javon Ringer, a fifth-round pick in ’09, could make White expendable.
Scout’s take: "He lost all that weight last year and was supposed to be rejuvenated, but I really didn’t see it. I think there will be a spot for him somewhere in the league, but I don’t know if people will be knocking down his door."
Redskins RB Clinton Portis
The skinny: Injuries limited him to eight games in ’09, and even when he did play he was largely ineffective (494 rushing yards). Poor line play accounted for some of the problems, but there also is a perception that Portis’ work ethic has declined.
Scout’s take: "He’s not the back he was three or four years ago. He’s 28, but he’s a bit of an old 28. He’s got some miles on him. If you play him in a rotation, where you have another young back to go with him, he’s still got enough to help a team."
Dennis Dillon is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at ddillon@sportingnews.com.
An AL scout spoke with Sporting News’ Ryan Fagan about three of the division’s biggest questions:
Will Javier Vazquez have more success in his second stint with the Yankees?
Scout says: "There’s less pressure for him to anchor that staff than there was the last time he was there (4.91 ERA in 2004). He’s obviously going to have a little more run support than last year in Atlanta, a bit better ballclub and a little less pressure every five days. When you put him in that rotation with that ballclub, he’s going to be a great complement."
Now that third baseman Adrian Beltre is out of cavernous Safeco Field and at hitter-friendly Fenway Park, will he see a big uptick in his offensive production?
Scout says: "Yes, and not only from the different ballpark but from the guys that will surround him this year. His supporting cast in Boston is going to allow him to make a big impact. And some may make light of this, but the travel is going to be less for him, and that’ll help, too."
Will Rays starter David Price rebound from a sophomore slump?
Scout says: "I don’t think it was a slump. It’s a situation where a young guy was coming out of the bullpen, where he’d had a lot of success in short looks vs. hitters. But the league tends to do a lot of study on pitchers and makes adjustments. This guy is one of the best young pitchers in the game. He’ll be fine."
This story first appeared in the February 15 edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Ryan Fagan is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com, and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ryan_fagan.
An AL scout spoke with Sporting News’ Ryan Fagan about three of the division’s biggest questions:
Will Javier Vazquez have more success in his second stint with the Yankees?
Scout says: "There’s less pressure for him to anchor that staff than there was the last time he was there (4.91 ERA in 2004). He’s obviously going to have a little more run support than last year in Atlanta, a bit better ballclub and a little less pressure every five days. When you put him in that rotation with that ballclub, he’s going to be a great complement."
Now that third baseman Adrian Beltre is out of cavernous Safeco Field and at hitter-friendly Fenway Park, will he see a big uptick in his offensive production?
Scout says: "Yes, and not only from the different ballpark but from the guys that will surround him this year. His supporting cast in Boston is going to allow him to make a big impact. And some may make light of this, but the travel is going to be less for him, and that’ll help, too."
Will Rays starter David Price rebound from a sophomore slump?
Scout says: "I don’t think it was a slump. It’s a situation where a young guy was coming out of the bullpen, where he’d had a lot of success in short looks vs. hitters. But the league tends to do a lot of study on pitchers and makes adjustments. This guy is one of the best young pitchers in the game. He’ll be fine."
This story first appeared in the February 15 edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Ryan Fagan is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com, and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ryan_fagan.
Acquired from Detroit in a three-team blockbuster trade this offseason, new Yankee center fielder Curtis Granderson recently spoke with Sporting News’ Stan McNeal about his new team:
When my family and friends start talking about me being a Yankee, I think about what it means. There’s the Lakers in basketball, the Cowboys in football and the Yankees in baseball. No matter where I travel around the world, people know about the Yankees. To now be a part of that franchise is amazing.
I’ll be wearing a new number, 14. The Yankees gave me the option to keep 28, but after last year, when (manager) Joe Girardi wore 27 and they won their 27th championship, I had no problem letting him take 28. Besides, I wore 14 in high school and my dad wore it in his softball league.
I look forward to going to Boston as a Yankee. When you go to Fenway with another team, you can see the confidence of the fans. Like, Hey, we know we’re going to win. When you go in as a Yankee, they’re like, We might win, but this is going to be a battle. That’s the kind of respect this franchise has earned.
I’ve been asked if I’m going to hit 40 home runs. I don’t think that’s what I was acquired for. With the guys who have made this lineup what it is, I look at myself as a small piece of the big puzzle trying to repeat as champions.
This story first appeared in the February 15 edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Acquired from Detroit in a three-team blockbuster trade this offseason, new Yankee center fielder Curtis Granderson recently spoke with Sporting News’ Stan McNeal about his new team:
When my family and friends start talking about me being a Yankee, I think about what it means. There’s the Lakers in basketball, the Cowboys in football and the Yankees in baseball. No matter where I travel around the world, people know about the Yankees. To now be a part of that franchise is amazing.
I’ll be wearing a new number, 14. The Yankees gave me the option to keep 28, but after last year, when (manager) Joe Girardi wore 27 and they won their 27th championship, I had no problem letting him take 28. Besides, I wore 14 in high school and my dad wore it in his softball league.
I look forward to going to Boston as a Yankee. When you go to Fenway with another team, you can see the confidence of the fans. Like, Hey, we know we’re going to win. When you go in as a Yankee, they’re like, We might win, but this is going to be a battle. That’s the kind of respect this franchise has earned.
I’ve been asked if I’m going to hit 40 home runs. I don’t think that’s what I was acquired for. With the guys who have made this lineup what it is, I look at myself as a small piece of the big puzzle trying to repeat as champions.
This story first appeared in the February 15 edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Sporting News staff reports
White Sox general manager Ken Williams told the Chicago Sun-Times that he will give free agent outfielder Johnny Damon until Sunday morning to accept their latest offer.
Judging from William’s comments, however, it appears the White Sox are out of the running for Damon.
"We asked for their bottom line, and obviously we underestimated on what the market is for him because we thought we were competitive with what the rumors were out there," Williams told the Chicago Sun-Times. "With what we got back (Friday afternoon), unless Johnny sees this as a great opportunity for him, enjoys a chance to win in a great city, it’s an unrealistic number (that) we got back from them."
Williams said the White Sox’s offer, which is believed to be worth between $4.5 million and $6 million, was less than what Damon and agent Scott Boras are seeking.
According to various reports, the Tigers have offered Damon a two-year deal for $14 million and perhaps a one-year deal for $7 million.
"It’s the nature of the beast, but this has gone on long enough," Williams said. "We have a pretty good club as is. Would Johnny Damon add to it? He’s proven that. He was icing on the cake as far as we’re concerned."
Sporting News staff reports
White Sox general manager Ken Williams told the Chicago Sun-Times that he will give free agent outfielder Johnny Damon until Sunday morning to accept their latest offer.
Judging from William’s comments, however, it appears the White Sox are out of the running for Damon.
"We asked for their bottom line, and obviously we underestimated on what the market is for him because we thought we were competitive with what the rumors were out there," Williams told the Chicago Sun-Times. "With what we got back (Friday afternoon), unless Johnny sees this as a great opportunity for him, enjoys a chance to win in a great city, it’s an unrealistic number (that) we got back from them."
Williams said the White Sox’s offer, which is believed to be worth between $4.5 million and $6 million, was less than what Damon and agent Scott Boras are seeking.
According to various reports, the Tigers have offered Damon a two-year deal for $14 million and perhaps a one-year deal for $7 million.
"It’s the nature of the beast, but this has gone on long enough," Williams said. "We have a pretty good club as is. Would Johnny Damon add to it? He’s proven that. He was icing on the cake as far as we’re concerned."
NFL free agency will be less frantic this year. With no collective bargaining in place, only free agents with six or more years of service are unrestricted. Meanwhile, some prominent free agents are likely to be designated with the franchise tag by the Feb. 25 deadline.
"There are not as many free agents out there this year," Texans owner Bob McNair told reporters at a news conference last week.
Things will remain fluid between now and the start of free agency on March 5. Some free agents will agree to new contracts. Some veterans will be released, once teams decide that their 2010 contract terms are too costly.
Safety Darren Sharper, a 13-year NFL veteran, played in 14 regular-season games for the Saints in 2009.
But as things stand today, here is how things are shaping up for the top unrestricted free agents:
Expect them to be tagged and stay put
Aubrayo Franklin, NT, 49ers. He has become a valuable part of the defense, keeping blockers away from star inside linebacker Patrick Willis. The 49ers think they can win the NFC West next season, but they won’t if they let talented assets go. Franklin will either be re-signed or be hit with the franchise tag. Tag number: $7.033 million.
Casey Hampton, NT, Steelers. If the two sides can’t work out a deal, he is likely to be franchised, though there’s a slim chance the Steelers will let him go. At age 32, he is still an effective player, but don’t be surprised if the Steelers draft a nose tackle. Tag number: $7.003 million.
Ryan Pickett, DT, Packers. He wants to stay in Green Bay, and the Packers want him to stay. That means he is staying, either with a new deal or with the tag. Tag number: $7.003 million.
Richard Seymour, DE, Raiders. They traded a first-round draft pick to the Patriots to get him last year. So letting him go, without compensation, would make no sense. His agent is trying to forge a new deal. But if an agreement can’t be reached, the Raiders will franchise him. Tag number: $12.398 million.
Darren Sharper, S, Saints. He immediately became a key addition to a team that won the Super Bowl. Not only is he a terrific player, but he is a terrific leader. So the Saints won’t let him go. Tag number: $6.455 million.
Vince Wilfork, DT, Patriots. The Patriots already have defensive issues, and he is one of the best players in the league at his position. They can’t let him leave. If no new deal is struck, he will be franchised. Tag number: $7.003 million.
Top five who should be available
1. Julius Peppers, DE, Panthers. Since he carries a franchise tag near the $20-million range, the Panthers have no choice but to let him walk. Possible landing spots: Eagles, Patriots.
2. Karlos Dansby, LB, Cardinals. No way the Cardinals will pay the hefty franchise fee to their leading tackler. Possible landing spots: Chargers, Dolphins.
3. Dunta Robinson, CB, Texans. He could be franchised again, but if not, a player with his cover skills will be coveted. Possible landing spots: Falcons, Titans.
4. Chester Taylor, RB, Vikings. It will be tough for the Vikes to franchise a backup, so he is likely to hit the market. Possible landing spots: Redskins, Seahawks.
5. Terrell Owens, WR, Bills. The one-year experiment in Buffalo did not work for Owens or the Bills. Possible landing spots: Bengals, Buccaneers.
Larry Foote has said he’d like to retire with the Lions, but will he even get to stay in Detroit for the 2010 season?
Others who should reach the market
Leigh Bodden, CB, Patriots. Bodden isn’t opposed to re-signing, but he can’t pass up the chance to test the market. Possible landing spots: Eagles, Ravens.
Antonio Bryant, WR, Buccaneers. Because of injuries and inconsistency, he isn’t worth franchising. Possible landing spots: Chiefs, Dolphins.
Keith Bulluck, LB, Titans. His best years could be in his rearview mirror. Possible landing spots: Colts, Giants.
Ryan Clark, S, Steelers. Always salary-conscious, the Steelers will likely find his asking price too high. Possible landing spots: Bears, Bills.
Larry Foote, LB, Lions. In rebuilding mode, the Lions will likely let him go. Possible landing spots: Patriots, Vikings.
Larry Johnson, RB, Bengals. He will be 31 next season, and the Bengals have running back depth. Possible landing spots: Chargers, Texans.
Aaron Kampman, LB, Packers. Out of place at linebacker in the Packers’ 3-4, he can return to end in a 4-3 someplace else. Possible landing spots: Bears, Lions.
Kevin Mawae, C, Titans. He is 39, and the Titans are reluctant to pay him starter’s money. Possible landing spots: Broncos, Eagles.
Willie Parker, RB, Steelers. Not sure what the market will be for a running back who will turn 30 this year. Possible landing spots: Texans, Chargers.
Jermaine Phillips, S, Buccaneers. The rebuilding Bucs will not spend big money to keep him. Possible landing spots: Giants, Steelers.
Josh Reed, WR, Bills. He needs a change of scenery, and there is demand for receivers. Possible landing spots: Chiefs, Patriots.
Kyle Vanden Bosch, DE, Titans. Barring a last-minute deal with the Titans, he will find some takers looking for a pass rusher. Possible landing spots: Browns, Jets.
Mike Vrabel, LB, Chiefs. His agent says Vrabel will not retire, which means he will draw some interest. Possible landing spots: Browns, Giants.
Kevin Walter, WR, Texans. Just 28, he could be a valuable pickup for a team needing receiver help. Possible landing spots: Chiefs, Lions.
Clifton Brown is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at cliftonbrown@sportingnews.com.
NFL free agency will be less frantic this year. With no collective bargaining in place, only free agents with six or more years of service are unrestricted. Meanwhile, some prominent free agents are likely to be designated with the franchise tag by the Feb. 25 deadline.
"There are not as many free agents out there this year," Texans owner Bob McNair told reporters at a news conference last week.
Things will remain fluid between now and the start of free agency on March 5. Some free agents will agree to new contracts. Some veterans will be released, once teams decide that their 2010 contract terms are too costly.
Safety Darren Sharper, a 13-year NFL veteran, played in 14 regular-season games for the Saints in 2009.
But as things stand today, here is how things are shaping up for the top unrestricted free agents:
Expect them to be tagged and stay put
Aubrayo Franklin, NT, 49ers. He has become a valuable part of the defense, keeping blockers away from star inside linebacker Patrick Willis. The 49ers think they can win the NFC West next season, but they won’t if they let talented assets go. Franklin will either be re-signed or be hit with the franchise tag. Tag number: $7.033 million.
Casey Hampton, NT, Steelers. If the two sides can’t work out a deal, he is likely to be franchised, though there’s a slim chance the Steelers will let him go. At age 32, he is still an effective player, but don’t be surprised if the Steelers draft a nose tackle. Tag number: $7.003 million.
Ryan Pickett, DT, Packers. He wants to stay in Green Bay, and the Packers want him to stay. That means he is staying, either with a new deal or with the tag. Tag number: $7.003 million.
Richard Seymour, DE, Raiders. They traded a first-round draft pick to the Patriots to get him last year. So letting him go, without compensation, would make no sense. His agent is trying to forge a new deal. But if an agreement can’t be reached, the Raiders will franchise him. Tag number: $12.398 million.
Darren Sharper, S, Saints. He immediately became a key addition to a team that won the Super Bowl. Not only is he a terrific player, but he is a terrific leader. So the Saints won’t let him go. Tag number: $6.455 million.
Vince Wilfork, DT, Patriots. The Patriots already have defensive issues, and he is one of the best players in the league at his position. They can’t let him leave. If no new deal is struck, he will be franchised. Tag number: $7.003 million.
Top five who should be available
1. Julius Peppers, DE, Panthers. Since he carries a franchise tag near the $20-million range, the Panthers have no choice but to let him walk. Possible landing spots: Eagles, Patriots.
2. Karlos Dansby, LB, Cardinals. No way the Cardinals will pay the hefty franchise fee to their leading tackler. Possible landing spots: Chargers, Dolphins.
3. Dunta Robinson, CB, Texans. He could be franchised again, but if not, a player with his cover skills will be coveted. Possible landing spots: Falcons, Titans.
4. Chester Taylor, RB, Vikings. It will be tough for the Vikes to franchise a backup, so he is likely to hit the market. Possible landing spots: Redskins, Seahawks.
5. Terrell Owens, WR, Bills. The one-year experiment in Buffalo did not work for Owens or the Bills. Possible landing spots: Bengals, Buccaneers.
Larry Foote has said he’d like to retire with the Lions, but will he even get to stay in Detroit for the 2010 season?
Others who should reach the market
Leigh Bodden, CB, Patriots. Bodden isn’t opposed to re-signing, but he can’t pass up the chance to test the market. Possible landing spots: Eagles, Ravens.
Antonio Bryant, WR, Buccaneers. Because of injuries and inconsistency, he isn’t worth franchising. Possible landing spots: Chiefs, Dolphins.
Keith Bulluck, LB, Titans. His best years could be in his rearview mirror. Possible landing spots: Colts, Giants.
Ryan Clark, S, Steelers. Always salary-conscious, the Steelers will likely find his asking price too high. Possible landing spots: Bears, Bills.
Larry Foote, LB, Lions. In rebuilding mode, the Lions will likely let him go. Possible landing spots: Patriots, Vikings.
Larry Johnson, RB, Bengals. He will be 31 next season, and the Bengals have running back depth. Possible landing spots: Chargers, Texans.
Aaron Kampman, LB, Packers. Out of place at linebacker in the Packers’ 3-4, he can return to end in a 4-3 someplace else. Possible landing spots: Bears, Lions.
Kevin Mawae, C, Titans. He is 39, and the Titans are reluctant to pay him starter’s money. Possible landing spots: Broncos, Eagles.
Willie Parker, RB, Steelers. Not sure what the market will be for a running back who will turn 30 this year. Possible landing spots: Texans, Chargers.
Jermaine Phillips, S, Buccaneers. The rebuilding Bucs will not spend big money to keep him. Possible landing spots: Giants, Steelers.
Josh Reed, WR, Bills. He needs a change of scenery, and there is demand for receivers. Possible landing spots: Chiefs, Patriots.
Kyle Vanden Bosch, DE, Titans. Barring a last-minute deal with the Titans, he will find some takers looking for a pass rusher. Possible landing spots: Browns, Jets.
Mike Vrabel, LB, Chiefs. His agent says Vrabel will not retire, which means he will draw some interest. Possible landing spots: Browns, Giants.
Kevin Walter, WR, Texans. Just 28, he could be a valuable pickup for a team needing receiver help. Possible landing spots: Chiefs, Lions.
Clifton Brown is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at cliftonbrown@sportingnews.com.
There is hope associated with Baltimore baseball this spring. The youngsters coming through the minor league system are starting to mature into major league-ready contributors, and the front office brought in a few veterans who appear to be perfect short-term fits. Mr. Oriole himself, Cal Ripken Jr., has noticed the improvement. He took a few minutes to chat about the Orioles — and Topps’ million-baseball card giveaway that he is promoting — with Sporting News‘ Ryan Fagan.
‘I think all of baseball is looking at the Orioles’ arms,’ Hall of Famer Cal Ripken says.
Sporting News: What are your thoughts on this year’s Orioles? They’re generating a bit of buzz.
Cal Ripken: If you’re an Orioles fan, there’s lots of reasons to be optimistic about the coming season. They’ve assembled a lot of talent, young talent, in this rebuilding process. Adam Jones came into his own last year as a center fielder, a fabulous center fielder. (Nick) Markakis is a perennial All-Star out in right field. They’ve got (Miguel) Tejada coming back as a bridge at third base. Garrett Atkins, I thought, was a good pickup. Matt Wieters is a potential Joe Mauer in the making, and the guys they’ve got on the mound — (Kevin) Millwood’s coming in as a true ace to take a little pressure off them, and maybe provide some veteran leadership for these young arms. They’ve got guys who legitimately throw in the upper 90s, and it’s a matter of them figuring out what to throw and when to throw it. If they do, they’re going to be very competitive.
SN: Wieters has all the measureables and had a good rookie season, but what about him stands out to you?
CR: When you first look at him, he’s calm and handles the pitching staff well. He’s a big guy, and he has all the offensive skills that you get excited about out of that position. But he seems to be a smart catcher — one that handles the pitching staff well, and one that you’d be glad to have grow with their young staff. When you look at somebody like Joe Mauer, I think you take for granted some of his defensive skills behind the plate, but I think Matt Wieters is in the same sort of mold as Joe Mauer.
SN: What are your thoughts about Brian Matusz, the young lefty?
CR: The word around baseball about the great young arms — and Brian certainly fits into that — is they have phenomenal stuff. Then it’s a matter of making the pitch at the right time, making the right pitch, and throwing to your game plan and figuring out how to settle into that big league model. Some people can do that really easily. I remember Mike Mussina was somebody who came right into the big leagues and knew what he was doing from a mental standpoint and a physical standpoint, and he had success right away. Ben McDonald struggled a little bit, and he had to get his feet on the ground and get more of a game plan before he took off. So, you’re wondering, at least from a makeup standpoint, are they Mussina-types or are they a little more like McDonald-types?
SN:With as many young starters as the Orioles have, they probably have both, right?
CR: Yeah. I’m excited. I think all of baseball is looking at the Orioles’ arms.
SN: Did you have a favorite baseball card as a kid?
CR: I was a big Brooks Robinson fan, and I was also a big Cincinnati Reds fan — maybe because I was a front-runner and they were the Big Red Machine and they competed against the Orioles in the 1970 (World) Series. So I tried to collect the starting lineup for the Reds. And, being around Baltimore, Brooks Robinson was hard to get. I remember getting a lot of Tom Shopay cards, but I finally got a Brooks. I couldn’t tell you where Brooksie is; I think my mom might have thrown it out.
SN:Do you remember the first time you got to meet Brooks?
CR: I do. When my dad first came to the big leagues. I was about 14 or 15 years old, and I had the chance to go down and say hello to Brooksie. He didn’t disappoint; he was as nice of a person as I thought he was. Took all the time in the world for me. I still have yet to find a person in the world who says a negative thing about Brooksie. He was my man.
SN: Have you seen some of the cards in this Topps giveaway?
CR: I’m looking at the 1952 Topps rookie card for Mickey Mantle, and this one, they tell me, in vintage condition went for $250,000. This one I have right here has a couple scrapes on it, and they say it’s worth about 20 grand.
SN: The most expensive card I’ve ever held was worth about $70. What’s it feel like to hold a Mantle rookie card?
CR: Well, it doesn’t feel much different. This Mickey Mantle one is really protected. It’s in a real thick case so I can’t do any damage to it, and it’s tagged. So it doesn’t feel much different than holding my rookie card, which is not worth nearly what Mickey’s is. But, you know, baseball cards are baseball cards. The older ones have some nice color.
Ryan Fagan is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com, and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ryan_fagan.
There is hope associated with Baltimore baseball this spring. The youngsters coming through the minor league system are starting to mature into major league-ready contributors, and the front office brought in a few veterans who appear to be perfect short-term fits. Mr. Oriole himself, Cal Ripken Jr., has noticed the improvement. He took a few minutes to chat about the Orioles — and Topps’ million-baseball card giveaway that he is promoting — with Sporting News‘ Ryan Fagan.
‘I think all of baseball is looking at the Orioles’ arms,’ Hall of Famer Cal Ripken says.
Sporting News: What are your thoughts on this year’s Orioles? They’re generating a bit of buzz.
Cal Ripken: If you’re an Orioles fan, there’s lots of reasons to be optimistic about the coming season. They’ve assembled a lot of talent, young talent, in this rebuilding process. Adam Jones came into his own last year as a center fielder, a fabulous center fielder. (Nick) Markakis is a perennial All-Star out in right field. They’ve got (Miguel) Tejada coming back as a bridge at third base. Garrett Atkins, I thought, was a good pickup. Matt Wieters is a potential Joe Mauer in the making, and the guys they’ve got on the mound — (Kevin) Millwood’s coming in as a true ace to take a little pressure off them, and maybe provide some veteran leadership for these young arms. They’ve got guys who legitimately throw in the upper 90s, and it’s a matter of them figuring out what to throw and when to throw it. If they do, they’re going to be very competitive.
SN: Wieters has all the measureables and had a good rookie season, but what about him stands out to you?
CR: When you first look at him, he’s calm and handles the pitching staff well. He’s a big guy, and he has all the offensive skills that you get excited about out of that position. But he seems to be a smart catcher — one that handles the pitching staff well, and one that you’d be glad to have grow with their young staff. When you look at somebody like Joe Mauer, I think you take for granted some of his defensive skills behind the plate, but I think Matt Wieters is in the same sort of mold as Joe Mauer.
SN: What are your thoughts about Brian Matusz, the young lefty?
CR: The word around baseball about the great young arms — and Brian certainly fits into that — is they have phenomenal stuff. Then it’s a matter of making the pitch at the right time, making the right pitch, and throwing to your game plan and figuring out how to settle into that big league model. Some people can do that really easily. I remember Mike Mussina was somebody who came right into the big leagues and knew what he was doing from a mental standpoint and a physical standpoint, and he had success right away. Ben McDonald struggled a little bit, and he had to get his feet on the ground and get more of a game plan before he took off. So, you’re wondering, at least from a makeup standpoint, are they Mussina-types or are they a little more like McDonald-types?
SN:With as many young starters as the Orioles have, they probably have both, right?
CR: Yeah. I’m excited. I think all of baseball is looking at the Orioles’ arms.
SN: Did you have a favorite baseball card as a kid?
CR: I was a big Brooks Robinson fan, and I was also a big Cincinnati Reds fan — maybe because I was a front-runner and they were the Big Red Machine and they competed against the Orioles in the 1970 (World) Series. So I tried to collect the starting lineup for the Reds. And, being around Baltimore, Brooks Robinson was hard to get. I remember getting a lot of Tom Shopay cards, but I finally got a Brooks. I couldn’t tell you where Brooksie is; I think my mom might have thrown it out.
SN:Do you remember the first time you got to meet Brooks?
CR: I do. When my dad first came to the big leagues. I was about 14 or 15 years old, and I had the chance to go down and say hello to Brooksie. He didn’t disappoint; he was as nice of a person as I thought he was. Took all the time in the world for me. I still have yet to find a person in the world who says a negative thing about Brooksie. He was my man.
SN: Have you seen some of the cards in this Topps giveaway?
CR: I’m looking at the 1952 Topps rookie card for Mickey Mantle, and this one, they tell me, in vintage condition went for $250,000. This one I have right here has a couple scrapes on it, and they say it’s worth about 20 grand.
SN: The most expensive card I’ve ever held was worth about $70. What’s it feel like to hold a Mantle rookie card?
CR: Well, it doesn’t feel much different. This Mickey Mantle one is really protected. It’s in a real thick case so I can’t do any damage to it, and it’s tagged. So it doesn’t feel much different than holding my rookie card, which is not worth nearly what Mickey’s is. But, you know, baseball cards are baseball cards. The older ones have some nice color.
Ryan Fagan is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com, and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ryan_fagan.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft . Here is a capsule look at prospect Ryan Mathews.
Ryan Mathews rushed for 1850 yards and 19 touchdowns for Fresno last season.
NFL position: RB
Height: 5-11
Weight: 220
40 time: 4.50
Current projection: Second-round pick
NFL comparison: Kevin Jones, Bears
Inside running: Is a powerful inside runner with great pad level, leverage and balance through the hole. Gets downhill fast, and looks to run through contact. Keeps feet moving, and falls forward after contact. Is better at breaking high arm tackles than withstanding contact around his feet. Can dip shoulder with quick lateral move in hole to make a defender miss. Grade: 8.5
Outside running: Is much more effective as a north/south runner. Runs best when he can get to the perimeter and turn shoulders downhill. Lacks elite speed to consistently gain the edge or outrun angles for defenders. Looks to run over would-be tacklers near the sideline rather than try to make them miss. Is not creative or elusive in the open field. Grade: 7.5
Blocking: Can be a devastating blocker in pass protection, especially against a blitzing safety or linebacker. Keeps shoulders square, rolls hips and uncoils body into pass rushers. Shows sufficient skills to play immediately on third downs. Grade: 8.5
Hands/routes: Shows soft hands and ability to adjust to off-target passes. Is most effective on screens and checkdowns. Is more likely to break a tackle than evade anyone on wheel, swing or angle routes. Grade: 8.0
Durability: Is strong and powerful. Runs behind his pads with great lower-body flexibility, nimble feet and balance to bounce off tackle attempts. Wears down defenders. Runs with square shoulders and a strong stride. Shows exceptional toughness, but little elusiveness. Grade: 7.0
Bottom line: Mathews, a first-year starter as a junior in ’09, lost playing time to other backs late in the season. He has the body and athletic ability to excel, especially for a team seeking a sledgehammer inside back. He will become a complete player who lacks Pro Bowl-caliber speed and ability, but he should have a solid career. Mathews has the chance to play right away on third down because of his ability to pass protect. We should be paired with an undersized, fast and explosive back.
For more than 200 player scouting reports from Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft . Here is a capsule look at prospect Ryan Mathews.
Ryan Mathews rushed for 1850 yards and 19 touchdowns for Fresno last season.
NFL position: RB
Height: 5-11
Weight: 220
40 time: 4.50
Current projection: Second-round pick
NFL comparison: Kevin Jones, Bears
Inside running: Is a powerful inside runner with great pad level, leverage and balance through the hole. Gets downhill fast, and looks to run through contact. Keeps feet moving, and falls forward after contact. Is better at breaking high arm tackles than withstanding contact around his feet. Can dip shoulder with quick lateral move in hole to make a defender miss. Grade: 8.5
Outside running: Is much more effective as a north/south runner. Runs best when he can get to the perimeter and turn shoulders downhill. Lacks elite speed to consistently gain the edge or outrun angles for defenders. Looks to run over would-be tacklers near the sideline rather than try to make them miss. Is not creative or elusive in the open field. Grade: 7.5
Blocking: Can be a devastating blocker in pass protection, especially against a blitzing safety or linebacker. Keeps shoulders square, rolls hips and uncoils body into pass rushers. Shows sufficient skills to play immediately on third downs. Grade: 8.5
Hands/routes: Shows soft hands and ability to adjust to off-target passes. Is most effective on screens and checkdowns. Is more likely to break a tackle than evade anyone on wheel, swing or angle routes. Grade: 8.0
Durability: Is strong and powerful. Runs behind his pads with great lower-body flexibility, nimble feet and balance to bounce off tackle attempts. Wears down defenders. Runs with square shoulders and a strong stride. Shows exceptional toughness, but little elusiveness. Grade: 7.0
Bottom line: Mathews, a first-year starter as a junior in ’09, lost playing time to other backs late in the season. He has the body and athletic ability to excel, especially for a team seeking a sledgehammer inside back. He will become a complete player who lacks Pro Bowl-caliber speed and ability, but he should have a solid career. Mathews has the chance to play right away on third down because of his ability to pass protect. We should be paired with an undersized, fast and explosive back.
For more than 200 player scouting reports from Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
After 12 consecutive losing seasons and back-to-back last-place finishes, the Orioles had a productive offseason. They added four veterans — two corner infielders, a No. 1 starter and a closer — to a core that features several in-their-prime hitters as well as several ready-for-prime-time youngsters. However, Baltimore still plays in the majors’ toughest division, and bad luck already has struck: Righthander Brad Bergesen injured his shoulder while filming an Orioles TV commercial in December.
Kevin Millwood’s veteran leadership should give the Orioles a nice anchor atop their rotation.
Three questions
1. How much better will the rotation be?
It can’t be much worse. Orioles starters finished last in the A.L. and 29th in the majors with a 5.37 ERA last season. Jeremy Guthrie led the Orioles with 10 wins last season but also had 17 losses and a 5.04 ERA. Enter Kevin Millwood, acquired from the Rangers this offseason. Millwood is the veteran workhorse this young rotation needs. "I don’t think a lot of people realize his ERA was as low as it was—and he pitched in Texas," Orioles Hall of Fame righthander Jim Palmer said. "He should help everybody. He’s been around. He came up with Atlanta, so he was there with (John) Smoltz, he was there with (Tom) Glavine, he was there with (Greg) Maddux. He’s a No. 1 guy on that staff and takes a lot of pressure off Guthrie."
Still, the back of the rotation is young, with Brian Matusz, Chris Tillman and Bergesen having combined for 39 career starts—all last season.
2. Can Miguel Tejada play third base?
For several seasons, Tejada resisted making the move from shortstop to third. However, as he entered free agency this offseason, he admitted it was time for the change. Orioles third basemen (namely, Melvin Mora) finished fifth in the majors with a .968 fielding percentage in 2009, so the bar is set high.
In his 13-season major league career, Tejada has played no defensive position other than short. The Orioles know he isn’t the hitter he was during his first go-round with the team (2004-07), but they have to hope Tejada can follow in the footsteps of another well-known shortstop who made the same transition late in his career. Some guy named Cal Ripken. Until we see Tejada at the hot corner in spring training, the jury is out.
3. Will Garrett Atkins rediscover his stroke?
Atkins, primarily a third baseman in his career, will take over at first. But the Orioles signed him for his bat, not his glove. Trouble is, Atkins, who averaged a .305-25-110 stat line with Colorado from 2006-08, slumped to .226-9-48 last season. The Rockies nontendered him in December.
"We are confident that Atkins will have a year more in line with what he showed three out of the last four seasons," manager Dave Trembley said. "A new league, a guy (who) has proven he is an RBI guy and I have a lot of confidence in Terry Crowley, our hitting instructor, to get Atkins back on track."
Projected lineup
1. 2B Brian Roberts: Led majors with 56 doubles.
2. CF Adam Jones: Breakout season: 19 HRs, 70 RBIs in 119 games.
3. RF Nick Markakis: OPS dropped from .897 to .801.
4. 3B Miguel Tejada: Career .321 AVG at Camden Yards.
5. C Matt Wieters: Hit .312 at home, .265 on road.
6. LF Nolan Reimold: Team-best .831 OPS in rookie season.
7. DH Luke Scott: Career-best 25 HRs led team.
8. 1B Garrett Atkins: Hit .199 vs. righthanders.
9. SS Cesar Izturis: Has a career .298 OBP.
Projected rotation
1. RHP Kevin Millwood: 3.17 ERA at hitter-friendly Rangers Ballpark.
2. RHP Jeremy Guthrie: No months with a sub-4.50 ERA.
3. LHP Brian Matusz: Allowed .315 BA vs. righthanders.
4. RHP Brad Bergesen: 7-1, 268 ERA at home; 0-4, 4.56 on road.
5. RHP Chris Tillman: 15 HRS allowed in 65 IP.
Projected closer
LHP Mike Gonzalez: Career-high 90 K’s in 74 1/3 innings for Braves.
Grades
Offense: B. The Orioles finished in the middle of the pack in most key offensive categories, but this unit has top-10 potential. Adam Jones, Nolan Reimold and Nick Markakis are arguably the majors’ most underrated outfield trio, and there is speed atop the order with power throughout.
Pitching: D. The rotation has plenty to prove, and the relievers’ 4.78 ERA ranked 28th in the majors. Millwood will help, and Mike Gonzalez will fill the ninth-inning void left by the trade of George Sherrill late last season. Much will depend on the young arms’ maturation and Guthrie’s bounce-back ability.
Bench: C. Assuming he isn’t dealt, Ty Wigginton provides plenty of versatility and some pop. Outfielder Felix Pie finally broke through in 2009, hitting nine homers in a reserve role. Robert Andino can play just about anywhere but hit just .222 last season (nine points better than his career average).
Manager: C. In his first two full seasons in Baltimore, Trembley is 132-191 (.409 winning percentage). However, he hasn’t had much with which to work — until now. He has a nice mix of veterans and emerging youngsters, and improvement will be expected.
Sporting News prediction: With so many promising young stars reaching the majors, there finally is hope. Unfortunately, it won’t translate to more than a fourth-place finish in MLB’s toughest division.
Coming Monday: Phillies preview.
Chris Bahr is a senior editor for Sporting News. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
After 12 consecutive losing seasons and back-to-back last-place finishes, the Orioles had a productive offseason. They added four veterans — two corner infielders, a No. 1 starter and a closer — to a core that features several in-their-prime hitters as well as several ready-for-prime-time youngsters. However, Baltimore still plays in the majors’ toughest division, and bad luck already has struck: Righthander Brad Bergesen injured his shoulder while filming an Orioles TV commercial in December.
Kevin Millwood’s veteran leadership should give the Orioles a nice anchor atop their rotation.
Three questions
1. How much better will the rotation be?
It can’t be much worse. Orioles starters finished last in the A.L. and 29th in the majors with a 5.37 ERA last season. Jeremy Guthrie led the Orioles with 10 wins last season but also had 17 losses and a 5.04 ERA. Enter Kevin Millwood, acquired from the Rangers this offseason. Millwood is the veteran workhorse this young rotation needs. "I don’t think a lot of people realize his ERA was as low as it was—and he pitched in Texas," Orioles Hall of Fame righthander Jim Palmer said. "He should help everybody. He’s been around. He came up with Atlanta, so he was there with (John) Smoltz, he was there with (Tom) Glavine, he was there with (Greg) Maddux. He’s a No. 1 guy on that staff and takes a lot of pressure off Guthrie."
Still, the back of the rotation is young, with Brian Matusz, Chris Tillman and Bergesen having combined for 39 career starts—all last season.
2. Can Miguel Tejada play third base?
For several seasons, Tejada resisted making the move from shortstop to third. However, as he entered free agency this offseason, he admitted it was time for the change. Orioles third basemen (namely, Melvin Mora) finished fifth in the majors with a .968 fielding percentage in 2009, so the bar is set high.
In his 13-season major league career, Tejada has played no defensive position other than short. The Orioles know he isn’t the hitter he was during his first go-round with the team (2004-07), but they have to hope Tejada can follow in the footsteps of another well-known shortstop who made the same transition late in his career. Some guy named Cal Ripken. Until we see Tejada at the hot corner in spring training, the jury is out.
3. Will Garrett Atkins rediscover his stroke?
Atkins, primarily a third baseman in his career, will take over at first. But the Orioles signed him for his bat, not his glove. Trouble is, Atkins, who averaged a .305-25-110 stat line with Colorado from 2006-08, slumped to .226-9-48 last season. The Rockies nontendered him in December.
"We are confident that Atkins will have a year more in line with what he showed three out of the last four seasons," manager Dave Trembley said. "A new league, a guy (who) has proven he is an RBI guy and I have a lot of confidence in Terry Crowley, our hitting instructor, to get Atkins back on track."
Projected lineup
1. 2B Brian Roberts: Led majors with 56 doubles.
2. CF Adam Jones: Breakout season: 19 HRs, 70 RBIs in 119 games.
3. RF Nick Markakis: OPS dropped from .897 to .801.
4. 3B Miguel Tejada: Career .321 AVG at Camden Yards.
5. C Matt Wieters: Hit .312 at home, .265 on road.
6. LF Nolan Reimold: Team-best .831 OPS in rookie season.
7. DH Luke Scott: Career-best 25 HRs led team.
8. 1B Garrett Atkins: Hit .199 vs. righthanders.
9. SS Cesar Izturis: Has a career .298 OBP.
Projected rotation
1. RHP Kevin Millwood: 3.17 ERA at hitter-friendly Rangers Ballpark.
2. RHP Jeremy Guthrie: No months with a sub-4.50 ERA.
3. LHP Brian Matusz: Allowed .315 BA vs. righthanders.
4. RHP Brad Bergesen: 7-1, 268 ERA at home; 0-4, 4.56 on road.
5. RHP Chris Tillman: 15 HRS allowed in 65 IP.
Projected closer
LHP Mike Gonzalez: Career-high 90 K’s in 74 1/3 innings for Braves.
Grades
Offense: B. The Orioles finished in the middle of the pack in most key offensive categories, but this unit has top-10 potential. Adam Jones, Nolan Reimold and Nick Markakis are arguably the majors’ most underrated outfield trio, and there is speed atop the order with power throughout.
Pitching: D. The rotation has plenty to prove, and the relievers’ 4.78 ERA ranked 28th in the majors. Millwood will help, and Mike Gonzalez will fill the ninth-inning void left by the trade of George Sherrill late last season. Much will depend on the young arms’ maturation and Guthrie’s bounce-back ability.
Bench: C. Assuming he isn’t dealt, Ty Wigginton provides plenty of versatility and some pop. Outfielder Felix Pie finally broke through in 2009, hitting nine homers in a reserve role. Robert Andino can play just about anywhere but hit just .222 last season (nine points better than his career average).
Manager: C. In his first two full seasons in Baltimore, Trembley is 132-191 (.409 winning percentage). However, he hasn’t had much with which to work — until now. He has a nice mix of veterans and emerging youngsters, and improvement will be expected.
Sporting News prediction: With so many promising young stars reaching the majors, there finally is hope. Unfortunately, it won’t translate to more than a fourth-place finish in MLB’s toughest division.
Coming Monday: Phillies preview.
Chris Bahr is a senior editor for Sporting News. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
