Dun Dun Duh…
The Rays have reached an agreement with James Loney on a three-year, $21MM contract, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, pending a physical.
Tom Haudricourt of the Journal-Sentinel also adds:
The problem is, as the pool of first-base candidates dwindles, the tougher it is. The Mets originally asked for pitching prospect Tyler Thornburg for Davis and the Brewers said no. But the Mets might not back down very far as the Brewers’ choices are reduced. And NL Central rival Pittsburgh also is looking for a first baseman.
How much interest the Brewers have in exploring a trade for Texas’ Mitch Moreland or Seattle’s Justin Smoak, I’m not sure. You get the feeling Davis is the one they’ll try to get but at what price? The Brewers have had a tough time developing major league starting pitchers and don’t want to lose a promising one such as Thornburg.
And the plot thickens…
Original Post 12:00 PM
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reports that the Mets and Brewers are still talking about a deal for Ike Davis, but the Brewers still won’t part with RHP Tyler Thornburg.
Alderson spoke about how dependent it would be to find a willing partner to trade Davis.
“Everybody is aware of what we have. We don’t have to advertise that,’’ Alderson said. “As far as marketing, other teams do their own evaluations. If somebody is not inclined to make a deal for a particular player, it is difficult to talk them into it and get something in return.’’
It’s apparent that the Brewers are very interested in Davis, but given his risks and his regression, they are unwilling to part with much especially with his $3-4 million potential salary.
That said, Alderson is reluctant to give Ike away even though the salary relief alone could go toward an offer for Stephen Drew who they still want.
“Let me emphasize one thing: We’re not in the business of giving players away,” Alderson said. “We don’t expect to get in that business.”
Tough decisions lie ahead for both teams.
