Lucky for us. We don't have to sit and watch the paint dry in the Indianapolis Convention Center. So far, the baseball executives get to witness that process in person. That's about all that's happened so far.
It's being reported that Brad Penny will become a member of the St. Louis Cardinals rotation. He is reported to have signed a one year deal with the Cards to take the rotation spot currently being vacated by Free Agent Joel Pineiro. Penny might fit well in that slot. However, the real issue in St. Louis is the status of Matt Holliday. If he departs, the Cards will have a major hole to fill protecting Albert Pujols.
It is also being reported that talks continue between Seattle and Jason Bay's representatives. As I indicated in my report yesterday, Seattle really needs a big bat in the lineup. Adding Chone Figgins will help them score runs-an improvement that will be very well received. Now they need that big bopper to really clean off the bases. Keeping Russ Branyan will help iif they can get him to sign. But signing Jason Bay will really help. Look for something to happen with Bay no later than next week if not at the Winter Meetings.
It may not seem like a big deal, but Texas adds yet another pitcher, having picked up lefty Clay Rapapda from the Tigers. The side-winding southpaw can really learn from Mike Maddux and Nolan Ryan.
Washington gets a tough arm for their bullpen by trading the infamous Player To Be Named Sometime to the Yankees for righty Brian Bruney. The move surprises with the lack of pitching depth of the Yanks. Bruney can be very tough for a short stint on the mound. The Nationals have picked up a very good arm for their pen.
The Angles certainly might be in the mix for Roy Halladay. Especially if John Lackey slips away. Remember, the Halos were in the hunt for Halladay last year, but the Angels were not about to include Erick Aybar in the deal. They probably still won't include Aybar, because he is penciled in as their starting shortstop. But there are other prospects and major league ready guys that can be included in a deal. Why wouldn't the Angels look to Toronto to help solve their pitching needs for the next year?--then they can try to sign Doc for the long term. It's possible Toronto might even give the suitors for Halladay time to try and negotiate a long-term deal with the star pitcher.
Carl Pavano has accepted arbitration from the Twins. That's a big move for Minnesota. Can he repeat his 2009 season?
Arizona Diamondbacks General Manager Josh Byrnes has indicated he wants to leave Indianapolis with another bullpen arm.
Juan Pierre is among the names being discussed in trade talks. There are lots of clubs that could use a top of the order hitter with his ability to steal bases. There aren't lots of clubs that can afford his contract. If the Dodgers do trade him, they would probably have to pay some of his salary. However, with ownership's financial situation (divorce settlement pending) it may be a rough year to spend money for the Dodgers.
We'll watch the Meetings all evening and add to this report with comments as things happen. Please feel free to add what you have heard.