A’s resign backstop

Adam_melhuseThe Oakland Athletics have signed catcher Adam Melhuse to a one-year $815,000 contract.

Melhuse can earn up to $40,000 in bonuses. 140 PA (plate appearances) = $25,000 and 165 PA = $15,000.

2006 stats with he Oakland Athletics:
AVG:.219
HR:4
RBI:18
SB:0

My comments: I like it. He has been doing a fine job at back-up there.

Mark Travis

After a year off, Cedeno signs with Orioles

Roger_cedenoThe Baltimore Orioles have signed outfielder Roger Cedeno to a one-year minor league contract.

If he was promoted to the Majors one-year contract that would pay him $500,000 in the major
leagues and $100,000 in the minors. He could earn an additional
$400,000 in performance bonuses and would get the entire amount if
he plays in 120 games and has 550 plate appearances.Source: ESPN.com

My thoughts: I don’t like it. BOTTOM LINE.

Mark Travis

Mariners ink a reliever

Chris_reitsmaThe Seattle Mariners have signed relief pitcher Chris Reitsma to a one-year $2.05 million contract.

Reitsma gets $1.35 million this year and can earn additional
bonuses based on appearances and games finished. Seattle has a $2.7
million option for 2008 with a $700,000 buyout. Source: ESPN.com

2006 stats with the Atlanta Braves:
W-L:1-2
ERA:8.68
SO:13
S:8

My comments: I like it. Since they traded away their former set-up man Rafael Soriano, Reitsma will be their new set-up man.

Mark Travis

Rockies looking for a backstop, Lopez maybe the guy

Javy_lopezThe Colorado Rockies have expressed interest in veteran catcher Javy Lopez.

"Nothing is finalized, but we continue to make progress,"  Lopez’s agent, Chuck Berry, said.

Lopez’s 2006 stats:
AVG:.251
HR:8
RBI:35

The Colorado Rockies, are also interested in these catchers: Sal Fasano, Josh Bard, Sandy Alomar Jr.

My comments: I don’t really like Javy, he has a very low average. Good fielder though.

Mark Travis

Foulke may close, signs with the Tribe

Keith_foulkeThe Cleveland Indians have signed relieve pitcher Keith Foulke, to a one-year $5 million contract.

Contract includes: $2 million in performance bonuses and a mutual option for 2008.

2006 stats with the Boston Red Sox:

W-L:3-1
ERA:4.35
SO:36
S:0

My comments: I think that Borowski is a better closer, Foulke can fall apart. Nonetheless, Thier bullpen situation is looking good.

Mark Travis

Much needed glove comes to the Bronx

MientkiewiczThe New York Yankees have reached terms on a possible deal with First Baseman Doug Mientkiewicz.

It is reported that he is awaiting a physical examination.

The deal would be for one-year.

2006 stats w/ the Kansas City Royals:
AVG:.283
HR:4
RBI:43

My comments: I like it. Giambi permanent DH now. Smart move.

Mark Travis

Loretta to sign with the Astros

Mark_lorettaThe Houston Astros have reached a deal with Mark Loretta, according to his agent Bob Garber.

The deal is reportedly worth $2.5 million ($3.5 million w/incentives), for one-year.

Loretta aslo received offers from the Texas Rangers and the Cincinnati Reds.

So, you say "But, the Astros just signed Biggio." Well this is what his agent said "[Loretta will play] all over the infield."

2006 stats w/ the Boston Red Sox:
AVG:.285
HR:5
RBI:59
SB:4

My comments: I love this move, except for one thing. THE LENGTH OF THE CONTRACT!!! Being an Astros fan, I want someone to replace Biggio when he goes. But, if Loretta doesn’t resign, then Chris Burke  might have to change back to a second baseman. I still like the deal.

Mark Travis