The Hot Stone League

Larry Stone gives his take on a wide array of baseball issues and weighs in about the Mariners too.

November 6, 2009 at 11:34 AM

J.J. Hardy traded to the Twins and other Hot Stove news (running thread)

Shortstop J.J. Hardy has long been linked to the Mariners as a possible trade target, but it's not going to happen. The Twins nabbed him today, sending outfielder Carlos Gomez to the Brewers. Gomez was one of the key players the Twins acquired from the Mets in the Johan Santana trade. His acquisition by the Brewers ensures that Mike Cameron, a free agent, won't be pursued by Milwaukee. If the Mariners want a great clubhouse guy who connected with Ichiro and still plays good defense, Cammy is the man.

Here's an update on the Tim Lincecum situation.

Yes, the Mariners are talking extension with Jack Wilson. I talked to Wilson's agent yesterday, and he told me pretty much the same thing (minus the contract figures), but indicated that progress was slow. Still, I expect this to get done -- particularly with Hardy off the market.

Also, Tim Belcher, who was part of the Mariners' miracle comeback in 1995 with 10 victories, was hired as Cleveland's pitching coach.

Another ex-Mariner, Clint Hurdle, was hired as Rangers' hitting coach. You dont' remember Hurdle with Seattle? That's because he was released at the end of spring training in 1983 and never played a game for them.

Here's a real interesting one: Bob Dutton of the Kansas City Star reports that the Mark Teahen trade to the White Sox, widely reported yesterday, is not a done deal. The Royals were to have received Josh Fields and Chris Getz, but GM Dayton Moore says those reports were premature. UPDATE: The deal has been finalized. Here's the KC Star take.

The Diamondbacks picked up the option on former Cy Young winner Brandon Webb, and will pay him $8.5 million next year.

The Phillies have picked up the $9 million option on Cliff Lee -- the biggest no-brainer in the history of the world, to quote a radio commercial that seared its way into my brain.

Jermaine Dye will be a free agent: the White Sox have bought out his 2010 option for $950,000.

The Hot Stone League

J.J. Hardy traded to the Twins and other Hot Stove news (running thread)

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