Is Hanley Ramirez moving to third or not? Apparently, not even the Marlins know the answer to that question. According to team president Larry Beinfest, the talented soon-to-be former shortstop hasn't warmed up to the idea of changing positions. If the Marlins aren't able to convince him soon, will a trade be in the offing?
The Washington Nationals haven't made a splash in the free agent market like last year, but if they are able to cash in with a new TV rights deal, the team could be a major player during the 2012 offseason.
Mark Melancon, Kelly Shoppach and Nick Punto aren't the kind of players the Red Sox are accustomed to acquiring in the offseason, but fans of the team may have to get used to the organization's more understated approach. New GM Ben Cherrington recently stated that past spending has limited the team's payroll flexibility and changed his focus to adding "quality depth".
Former Red Sox' GM Theo Epstein has been at the heart of speculation, with several reports suggesting the Cubs have stepped up their pursuit of Prince Fielder. However, Cubs' manager Dale Sveum has downplayed that possibility. Although the Wrigley faithful have never been discouraged by long odds, a more likely acquisition for the Cubs is left hander Paul Maholm.
The Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters have until Tuesday to accept the high bid for Yu Darvish, but the Yakult Swallows have already agreed to $2.5 million price tag for the right to talk with outfielder Norichika Aoki, according to a newspaper in Japan. The MLB team that placed the bid has not yet been revealed.
The Cleveland Indians signed Felix Pie and Jose Lopez to minor league deals, while the Nationals did the same with Andres Blanco and Jason Michaels.