10 December 2004

The Arizona Diamondbacks will pay $33 million over the next four years to Russ Ortiz in exchange for his services on the mound. I don't think Ortiz is worth any more than $5 million per year, and even that is a stretch. Jaret Wright definitely has more talent, and he's only getting $7 million annually from the Yankees! Antonio Alfonseca has also signed a $4.75 million, two-year deal to return to the Florida Marlins, where he may challenge Guillermo Mota for the role of closer. The Braves are reportedly interested in re-signing Paul Byrd to a multiyear contract (why?), but rumors about trading for Tim Hudson have been making waves lately as well. But that deal probably won't happen since the A's want a second baseman and the Braves aren't willing to deal Marcus Giles. In other news, Jermaine Dye has signed with the White Sox and Richard Hidalgo has signed with the Rangers, so Atlanta's outfield options beyond Jones, Marrero, and Thomas have quickly narrowed. Moises Alou is pretty much the last viable option, and he may be both too old and too expensive for Atlanta's shrinking budget. Stick around for more! This weekend's meetings should spark some more signings and deals, and Jamie and/or I will report it here once the dust settles.