Garland Out, Cabrera In

Now it gets interesting. The first of perhaps many moves?

ChicagoSports.com:

Cabrera, an excellent shortstop who also is signed only through next season, is due $9 million; Garland is due $12 million. Normally the money goes to the team taking on salary, but Garland's trade value was so high that Williams was able to get cash even though he is shedding the bigger commitment. That almost never happens.

Williams compares the deal with the trade that sent Carlos Lee to Milwaukee for Scott Podsednik and Luis Vizcaino before the 2005 season. The difference between Lee's $8 million salary and the combined $1.85 million due Podsednik and Vizcaino allowed Williams to make some more moves, most notably signing A.J. Pierzynski and Orlando Hernandez.

It's clear Williams wants to sign one of two free-agent center fielders—Torii Hunter or Aaron Rowand—and the extra flexibility will help. But the plan to add players through free agency runs deeper, and Williams is confident he can turn Garland into Cabrera and another player or two.

"The message I have been giving everyone we have targeted is we are 100 percent committed to winning a championship in 2008," Williams said Monday. "Yes, I always have my eye on the future, but I'll tell you this: Last year did not sit well with any of us. I'll be damned if we go through that again."

A-Rut

Dear news media,

Please, please, please quit running articles that say Alex Rodriguez will potentially end up with the White Sox.

And here's why: Scott Boras. The White Sox have a history of not working with the guy. So why all of a sudden would they be in the market for his show pony? They wouldn't. A-Rod will have to put up his gaudy numbers with no postseason results someplace else.

That is all.

Sincerely,

Spaulding, Get Your Foot Off the Boat!

Let the Speculation Begin

21.5 games out of the Wild Card lead with seven games left to play, there isn't much of interest left to follow in the White Sox season this year. Let the offseason speculation begin...

Chicago Tribune:

...But with Cleveland on the verge of clinching the division for the first time since 2001, emphasis has shifted to how the Sox and Twins will regroup, whether it's Minnesota surviving the potential loss of All-Star center fielder Torii Hunter or how Sox general manager Ken Williams will revamp his roster after a disastrous 2007.

Williams hasn't been shy about making bold changes, such as reshaping the lineup that produced a 2005 World Series championship. A retooled bullpen was 2007's major alteration, but it collapsed two months into the season.

Manager Ozzie Guillen expects Williams to make more daring moves, but he doesn't expect first baseman Paul Konerko to be involved.

"I don't think Konerko is going to be one of the guys [traded]," Guillen said. "We don't know, but I don't see that coming. I see [pitcher Jon] Garland saying, 'I'm going to get traded.' I don't think that's the right comment because we don't know that.

"One thing about Kenny, he will let you know what you need to know. If we put any one of our five starters on the market, someone will take it. You have to be careful of that and say, 'Well, why do these people want to take it and we cannot keep it?'

"I'm not just talking about Garland. I understand why he thinks about it because it seems like every year he's been [rumored to be] traded. But we're not going to play dirty with guys who were important for us. We're not going to lie to people."

Kind Actions Deserving of Attention

When all we seem to hear about are the tales of people in or surrounding sports that are only in it for the profit, we need to be sure the stories of the Will Stewarts of the world are shared.

MLB.com:

Fan gives home run ball to Thome

09/16/2007 8:50 PM ET
By Alex Gyr / MLB.com

CHICAGO -- Sell it, keep it or give it back?

That is the question that is left to every fan that comes away with a milestone home run ball. With the news that Barry Bonds' record-breaking home run ball recently sold for $750,000, the stakes are as high as ever.

So when Jim Thome's 500th home run ball bounced into Will Stewart's hands, it should have been a tough decision for the 28-year-old accountant. Instead, he admitted the choice was easy.

"I feel it is a part of Chicago baseball history," said Stewart, right after handing the ball back to the White Sox slugger during a postgame press conference.

...The game was actually Stewart's first ever at U.S. Cellular Field. The Austin, Texas, native flew into Chicago early Sunday morning for an accounting conference and decided to take in a game on the South Side before getting to work.

He bought a ticket in the left-center-field stands online, not knowing that Thome was nearing the historic home run mark. After coming straight from the airport, he found out about the slugger's home run chase when he got to the ballpark. When the big fly was hit, Stewart turned out to be in the right place at the right time.

...Thome has said for days as he approached the mark that he wanted the ball back and planned to drive with his father to deliver it to the Hall of Fame.

While Stewart is passing up whatever the ball could earn at an auction house, he isn't coming away empty-handed. After the game it was announced that he would receive a number of signed pieces of memorabilia and two season tickets for the 2008 season.

In another truly altruistic move, Stewart elected to donate the two season tickets to the charity of Thome's choice. The tickets will be auctioned off during the Joyce Thome Benefit for the Children's Hospital of Illinois, an event named in honor of Thome's late mother.

"As I'm from Austin, Texas, and not from the great city of Chicago and not able to use the season tickets, I've asked to donate the season tickets to your charity for use," Stewart said. "That's the best thing I can think of to give back to the city of Chicago."

Looking beyond yourself to the larger picture -- that's a lesson that bears remembering even when you're not at the ballpark.

Mr. Stewart, you're welcome on the South Side anytime. Thanks.

Guillen Contract

If you're looking to purchase a White Sox jersey this offseason, your only safe bet up until tonight was Bobby Jenks (after all, it is not certain that any of this year's White Sox team will be back). Now, it appears you can add Guillen to the "safe" list, as he has received a contract extension though 2012.

AP:

"The problems that we are having right now, I simply do not believe that they are problems that are with our coaching staff or with our manager," general manager Ken Williams said, calling the contract extension an easy decision.

"I already said previously that I put all that weight on my shoulders. I'm the one that has to put them in a better position to win baseball games and that means going out and making the necessary adjustments to get this team where we are better and get guys back up to their normal level of production."

Williams said he wanted the players, Guillen and the fans to know that the White Sox -- who had 99- and 90-win seasons before this year's debacle -- would engage in an offseason plan to ensure there would not be a repeat of this year's record.

..."This is the worst summer I've had in all my career because I was too soft. I was kind of worried about what people were going to say about me," Guillen said. "I could care less what people say about me as long as I win."

Guillen was voted AL Manager of the Year in 2005 but the White Sox slid from contention early this season and were 61-83 entering Tuesday, tied with Florida and Tampa Bay for the poorest record in the major leagues.

...Now Guillen will be a major part of the restructuring and there certainly will be some criticism of his new deal after such a horrible season.

"I respect that because everybody has their own opinion," Guillen said. "I think I should be criticized for the way we played this year. ... Believe me, after this year and last year what I went through, I'm bulletproof. I've been taking a lot of heat. I don't blame people for putting me on the spot because of the way played."

Continued White Sox Analysis from the Oz

Chicago Tribune:

"Well, they're killing me," Guillen said. "They're killing my family. They're killing my coaching staff, killing the White Sox fans. They kill the owner. They kill everyone. I hope they feel the same way we feel."

...

"You don't see this today," Guillen said. "You've seen this since April. I keep giving people a chance to succeed, a pat on the back. I wish I played for a manager like that. I swear to God I wish I could have played for a (expletive) manager like that. Every time you fail and keep putting guys out there who fail day in and day out, that's easy to play.

"A $100 million payroll and those guys don't show how much they make in the field. Well, Kenny [Williams], I don't say what he has to do, but we play like this and spend all that money on the club like that, I will shut the payroll and go with Double-A kids if we have to, because it's not easy. I know those guys go out there and they care about it."

...

"I hope somebody out there cares the way we care," he said. "Good guys or nice guys finish (expletive) last. I'm tired of seeing that (expletive), day in and day out. And I don't want to spend a miserable September seeing the same (expletive). If I have to see the same (expletive), I told Kenny, 'Bring somebody up. (Expletive) it.'"

Garland on Trading Block, Floyd's Future Uncertain?

The Chicago Sun-Times is looking into the future and speculating that more changes in the White Sox pitching staff might be in the cards:

Mark Buehrle and Javier Vazquez seem to be bookends heading into 2008, while Jose Contreras and his two-year, $20 million contract seem to be the book no one wants -- nor can lift. Jon Garland has set the stage to be moved in the offseason, while rookie John Danks has the inside track to being the No. 5 starter.

But if Garland is moved, that leaves a hole. The hope was that Floyd would have shown enough to allow the Sox to trade Garland and not blink. Now they are hoping that youngsters such as Gio Gonzalez and Jack Egbert continue their fast tracks and no longer are counting on Floyd.

Garland, if you're wondering, is 8-10 with a 4.90 ERA this season and 90-78 with a 4.49 ERA.

White Sox Season Recap

Chicago Sun-Times:

''I finally have to admit it -- we're horse [expletive],'' Guillen said. ''I thought we were just playing bad, but, no, we're horse [expletive].''

The Hot Stove Tracker is Back

It is not going to surprise anyone when I say that the White Sox have been miserable this season.

So what to do? Start thinking about next year, of course.

The Chicago White Sox Hot Stove Tracker hereby is back. Time to get great for '08.

Today's entry: Torii Hunter (I'm guessing this one will keep popping up throughout the winter)

Chicago Tribune, 8/23/07:

Guillen acknowledged the price and dearth of effective leadoff batters means it's possible Jerry Owens will bat first again next spring. Owens has played better than Guillen expected in center field. Owens could shift over to left if the Sox land a marquee free-agent center fielder such as Minnesota's Torii Hunter.

Two of the Good Guys: Buehrle and Nocioni

From Rick Morrissey and ChicagoSports.com:

...Something happened this past weekend that doesn't happen often in the world of professional sports. Two athletes in the same town looked around, decided their lives weren't going to be enhanced by more money and chose to stay put.

Presumably independent of one another, the White Sox's Mark Buehrle and the Bulls' Andres Nocioni came to the conclusion that a fellow could live quite comfortably on a huge, multimillion-dollar contract if he were frugal and kept his Maserati collection down to a workable number of, say, 10.

But when Buehrle accepted the above contract and when Nocioni agreed to a five-year, $37.5 million contract with the Bulls, it at least meant that sanity had established a tiny beachhead, that heart mattered and that happiness levels don't necessarily increase as salary numbers spin upward.

Players who view themselves as part of and are willing to sacrifice for the team. Geez, inbetween the quacking duck player of the game, the MVP awards, Gold Gloves, All-Star teams and other awards that honor the individual over the team, you would think that there might be an award recognizing these (albeit incrediably rare) types of players. Oh yeah, that's right there is...fan respect. That, and championships. Buehrle got his (with more to come); Noce, it's your turn.

TSSCBOT: Money

TSSCBOT: Food

TSSCBOT: Cell Phone

YEEESSS!!!

Congratulations, Mark Buehrle, on your no-hitter!

AL Central

The second installment of my utterly un-researched predictions for the 2007 baseball season.

AL CENTRAL

The teams:
Chicago White Sox
Cleveland Indians
Detroit Tigers
Kansas City Royals
Minnesota Twins

The outlook: The AL Central is the best division in baseball -- period -- and this year's competition is going to be intense.

The please-don't-bunt-it-to-the-pitcher Tigers return basically the same lineup as the team that got them to the World Series last year, with the notable addition of Gary Sheffield. The loss of Sheffield is huge for the Yankees, as they will now have to find a different outfielder for Old-Timers' Day. Postseason innings can take quite the toll on a pitching staff (see Kenny Rogers), and it is a valid question as to whether the Tiger pitching staff will be able to hold up over another 162 game season and carry the tabbies deep into October. The Tigers will have a better first than second half -- look for them to get a slight lead, but fade down the stretch (your 2006 AL Central Champion Minnesota Twins anyone?).

The White Sox should be Detroit's main competition, and they could be a very capable or superior opponent. The 2007 White Sox team has a lot of ifs -- if Mark Buehrle can return to form, if Javier Vazquez can live up to his potential, if Scott Podsednik v.2005 not v.2006 shows up, and if John Danks can be a capable fifth starter. If all those ifs fall into place this White Sox team will be a handful. (Too many ifs? Remember 2005? If Orlando Hernandez can still pitch -- if Jon Garland can live up to his potential -- if this Tadahito Iguchi guy can play second base -- if Shingo Takatsu can remain a dominant closer without prototypical stuff -- and later, if this tall, wide guy named Jenks can take over the closer's duties).

Look for the White Sox and Tigers to slug it out all year, being pushed by the Cleveland Indians, and, to a lesser extent due to the loss of Liriano (injury) and Radke (retirement), Minnesota.

Spaulding prognostication:
AL Central champion -- Detroit Tigers
AL Central Wild Card -- Chicago White Sox

Tigers limp to a divisional crown, but don't get to live October to its fullest.

Up next: AL West

Dumb Headline

And the award for the stupidest headline goes to...

MLB.com's December 26, 2006 article entitled, "No repeat for White Sox in 2006."

Wow, that's breaking news -- did that just come in via the wagon train that's up from St. Louis after it unloaded 12 jars of pickles down at Old Man Potter's General Store?

Chicago White Sox Hot Stove Tracker - Update #8

SITE NOTE: To make sure you are always viewing the latest White Sox hot stove news, check this blog's homepage, or simply click here to view all Chicago White Sox Hot Stove Tracker reports.


The Hot Stove Tracker is back after a long winter's nap. If you've been sad in the Hot Stove Tracker's absence, you haven't missed much (well, you've missed a lot transactions-wise, but this tracker would have predicted none of it).

Kenny Williams continues to display that he is the only man (or woman) on the face of the planet who has any idea where this Chicago White Sox team is headed. In light of that, we begin the Tracker almost completely anew today -- discarding the old data in the hopes that it will A) shorten the amount of text actually on the tracker (which it will) and B) eliminate bad or outdated rumors.

All that said, there is a lot to take in. Let's begin with a look at rumors and deals that have and have not happened:

What has happened in reality

• Louis Terrero: Chicago Tribune, 11/3/06: "...Once thought to be a five-tool player after signing out of the Dominican Republic, Terrero never has shown that ability and has been a problem instead. He was suspended for 29 games in 2004 at Triple-A Tucson for throwing a ball into the stands and striking a spectator following an on-field brawl. He also was suspended in the minors for kissing home plate after hitting a home run."
• Dewon Day -- added to 40-man roster 11/20/06
• Oneli Perez -- added to 40-man roster 11/20/06
• Heath Phillips -- added to 40-man roster 11/20/06
• Andy Gonzalez -- added to 40-man roster 11/20/06
• David Aardsma -- acquired via Cotts trade
• Carlos Vasquez -- acquired via Cotts trade, added to 40-man roster 11/20/06
• Freddy Garcia was sent to Philadelphia for RHP Gavin Floyd and LHP Gio Gonzalez.
• Sox signed reliever Mike McDougal to a three year contact to keep him in the bullpen
• Say hello, waive goodbye, Ross Gload -- the utility player was signed, and shortly thereafter sent to the Kansas City Royals for pitcher Andrew Sisco
• Free agent catcher Toby Hall signs with the Sox
  

Rumor that panned out

• Rumors said the Sox were interested in Rangers' prospect Nick Massett -- well, they were, as Massett was acquired in the McCarthy trade.

Didn't happen

• Freddy Garcia and Joe Crede to Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim for Chone Figgins and Ervin Santana
• Gary Matthews Jr. -- signed by LA-Anaheim, 11/22/06
• Juan Pierre -- signed by LA, 11/22/06
• Jon Garland was nearly sent to Houston for pitcher Taylor Buchholtz and center fielder Willy Taveras
  

Hasn't happened yet

• Free-agent shortstop Alex Gonzalez
• Carl Crawford from Tampa Bay for top minor league prospects
• Andrew Jones (OF, Atlanta)
• Aaron Rowand (OF, Philadelphia): Chicago Sun-Times, 11/17/06 -- "Williams is looking for some offensive punch in his outfield. Sources say the Sox have inquired about the possibility of getting Aaron Rowand back from the Philadelphia Phillies. Rowand, who was dealt to Philly last offseason for slugger Jim Thome, might be available if the Phils land free agent Alfonso Soriano."
• Omar Vizquel (SS, San Francisco) -- report on WSCR Radio, 11/10/06 cites Vizquel as a trade target
• Barry Zito (LHP, Oakland): Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "If the Sox trade two starters, that could free up enough money to join the Zito sweepstakes."

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Click here to view this blog's latest updates to the hot stove tracker, as well as all Chicago White Sox Hot Stove Tracker postings.

Something missing from the list? Leave a comment for the Hot Stove Tracker.

Chicago White Sox Hot Stove Tracker - Update #7

SITE NOTE: To make sure you are always viewing the latest White Sox hot stove news, check this blog's homepage, or simply click here to view all Chicago White Sox Hot Stove Tracker reports.

According to WSCR Radio tonight, the White Sox are close to sending Freddy Garcia and Joe Crede to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim for Chone Figgins and Ervin Santana. The Orange County Register is picking up on similar information, but is only reporting on a possible Crede-for-Figgins trade, with Garcia left out of the discussion.

(Update 11/28/06 -- the LA Times is also reporting a possible Garcia/Crede for Figgins/Santana in an article on their Web site and the Chicago Tribune takes a look at the considerations in any Sox-Angels trade in a new article posted here).

Is there truth to any of this? Time will tell. And Ken Williams does a good job of muddying the waters in Dave van Dyck's latest Tribune article.

Looking at it, WSCR's Crede-Garcia scenario would give the White Sox a leadoff man in Figgins and another guy capable of starting (you really never can have too much pitching, huh?). All of this would of course do nothing to clarify what starter or starters the Sox will be moving to make room for Brandon McCarthy in the rotation -- assuming of course that they will move any of that highly coveted pitching.

(Williams in van Dyck's article: "We have to ask ourselves if we are better off [after the trade] or are we better with our current personnel," Williams said. "We don't want to make a deal to make it look like we are doing something.")

This blog's totally unfounded speculation: you've got to assume that somewhere in Kenny Williams' "B" or "C" plan is the scenario that McCarthy ends up back in the bullpen and if Vazquez or another starter can't cut it, he takes their spot.

Update, 11/29/06 -- the Tribune's Phil Rogers does a better job analyzing/envisioning the fruits of a possible trade than I did from my sofa in his article (this, quite obviously, is why he gets paid to do this sort of thing):

But here's the big thing: They won that World Series because of tough decisions just like this one.

If you remember, the '05 team seemed vulnerable because of the economically driven departures of Magglio Ordonez and Carlos Lee. But Williams turned them and their salaries into several key parts of that team, including Scott Podsednik, Luis Vizcaino, Jermaine Dye, Orlando Hernandez and A.J. Pierzynski.

If the proposed deal with the Angels came off, the Sox would transform their team from plodders to speedsters, adding one of the fastest players in the American League in Figgins and taking one of their four base-cloggers out of the lineup. And they'd have the talented Santana under their control for five years rather than having Garcia for one.

Plus they would save about $10 million in '07 salaries. That would give Williams flexibility to improve the bullpen, for which the Sox might be able to get someone like Brendan Donnelly in the trade, and deal for a quality backup catcher, such as Milwaukee's Damian Miller.

The switch-hitting Figgins can play anywhere on the field except catcher, with his best positions being center field, third base and second base. I would start him in center, with Fields at third, and keep Podsednik in left for the time being.

Brian Anderson or Ryan Sweeney would become the fourth outfielder, playing center once a week when Figgins gives Fields a rest against a tough right-hander. If Fields or Podsednik starts slowly, Anderson, Sweeney or Rob Mackowiak could take his place in the lineup. The point is, Ozzie Guillen would have options, and the speed he feels he needs.

In the van Dyck article Williams also shoots down talk of Barry Bonds pursing the home title in a Sox uniform -- an rumor so absurd and move that would be so horrible that this fine publication never even deemed it worthy enough to add Bonds to the "Names in the News" section (a not entirely difficult section to make if you happen to be a major league ballplayer).

In other news, it sounds like Juan Uribe's situation in the Dominican Republic is close to an end. The Chicago Tribune reported on November 21 that prosecutors will not pursue Uribe if evidence is not presented within 10 days.

Oh, and Ross Gload agreed to a one-year deal. All that and not too much more in the updated, and slightly condensed version of the hot stove tracker that follows.

-------------------------

The player listing that follows was pulled from the White Sox 40 man roster as it appeared on White Sox.com on October 30, 2006 (names supplemented/updated as needed). Transactions, rumors, and other assorted data is complied from the news sources attributed below.

Each blog posting contains all the information listed in previous posts as well as new information. Consult the attribution's date to determine how "new" each bit of news is.

-------------------------
Pitchers
-------------------------

David Aardsma [Acquired via Cotts trade]

Lance Broadway
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "If Williams really wants to get creative, he could go after Tampa Bay Devil Rays outfielder Carl Crawford. But that likely would require sending a wave of young talent to the Devil Rays. That wave would have to include prospects such as pitcher Lance Broadway, third baseman Josh Fields and outfielder Ryan Sweeney."

56 Mark Buehrle
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/12/06: "Failing to reach the playoffs gives the Sox even more incentive to shake up the rotation. No one is untouchable, though right-hander Freddy Garcia and lefty Mark Buehrle seem the safest bets to be dealt. Both will be eligible for free agency after next season."
Chicago Tribune, 10/30/06: 2007 option picked up; Buehrle will make $9.5 million in 2007

52 Jose Contreras

Dewon Day {Added to 40-man roster 11/20/06}

34 Freddy Garcia
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/12/06: "Failing to reach the playoffs gives the Sox even more incentive to shake up the rotation. No one is untouchable, though right-hander Freddy Garcia and lefty Mark Buehrle seem the safest bets to be dealt. Both will be eligible for free agency after next season."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "[White Sox GM Kenny] Williams said during spring training that right-hander Brandon McCarthy would get a shot to be in the rotation in 2007, and that hasn't changed. To make room for McCarthy, all signs point toward Garcia being traded...While the veteran right-hander said in August that if he had to leave, he would want to pitch for the New York Yankees, striking a deal with the pitching-starved Texas Rangers for shortstop Michael Young is a route Williams will explore."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "Was stellar in September with a 2.49 ERA, but the Sox want Brandon McCarthy in the starting rotation and feel Garcia's better days are behind him."

20 Jon Garland

40 Charlie Haeger
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "The only in-house candidate who intrigues the Sox is knuckleballer Charlie Haeger, who can pitch a lot and go both long and short."

45 Bobby Jenks
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/12/06: "Right-hander Bobby Jenks has proven himself as a major-league closer and is expected to report to camp in his best shape after a revamped offseason workout program."

57 Boone Logan
MLB.com, 11/16/06: "We think that Boone Logan can be one of the more special left-handers in the league, but we're also going to bring competition in so that he has to earn it," Williams said.
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "Rookie Boone Logan wasn't the answer and fell out of favor with a 'big-league attitude,' according to one Sox insider, to go along with control problems."

47 Mike MacDougal
Chicago Tribune, 10/29/06: "MacDougal and Neal Cotts are in line for big raises..."

Jay Marshall
Chicago Tribune, 11/13/06: "The Sox are quietly listening to trade offers for Heath Phillips, the Triple-A left-hander who won two games for Team USA in the Olympic qualifier in August, and Jay Marshall, the left-hander who didn't walk a left-handed hitter in 58 games with high Class A Winston-Salem. Both are subject to be claimed in next month's Rule 5 draft if they aren't added to the 40-man roster."

55 Brandon McCarthy
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "Williams said during spring training that right-hander Brandon McCarthy would get a shot to be in the rotation in 2007, and that hasn't changed. To make room for McCarthy, all signs point toward Garcia being traded."

43 Jeff Nelson

Oneli Perez {Added to 40-man roster 11/20/06}

Heath Phillips {Added to 40-man roster 11/20/06}
Chicago Tribune, 11/13/06: "The Sox are quietly listening to trade offers for Heath Phillips, the Triple-A left-hander who won two games for Team USA in the Olympic qualifier in August, and Jay Marshall, the left-hander who didn't walk a left-handed hitter in 58 games with high Class A Winston-Salem. Both are subject to be claimed in next month's Rule 5 draft if they aren't added to the 40-man roster."

61 Paulino Reynoso

54 David Riske
Chicago Tribune, 10/29/06: "...the Sox are likely to seek a cheaper alternative to free agent David Riske, who made $1.8 million last season."

Edwardo Sierra
37 Matt Thornton
50 Sean Tracey

Carlos Vasquez [Acquired via Cotts trade] {Added to 40-man roster 11/20/06}

33 Javier Vazquez
Chicago Tribune, 11/13/06: "According to sources there have been preliminary talks about Javier Vazquez going to the Mets in a package that could include reliever Aaron Heilman or pitching prospects Philip Humber and Mike Pelfrey."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "The club likes Vazquez, but if it can move his $12.5 million contract for the '07 season for a fair return, he would be the odd man out rather than Garcia."
Chicago Tribune, 10/29/06: Will earn $12.5 million in 2007


-------------------------
Catchers
-------------------------

26 Sandy Alomar
Chicago Tribune, 11/18/06: "The inflated market also could dictate the return of Sandy Alomar Jr. as the backup catcher, although Williams wants to talk to Alomar before making a final decision. Rookies Chris Stewart and Gustavo Molina also could be candidates."

12 A.J. Pierzynski
39 Chris Stewart


-------------------------
Infielders
-------------------------

8 Alex Cintron
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "The one luxury the Sox have is a deep bench. That won't change, with Alex Cintron, Rob Mackowiak, Ross Gload and Pablo Ozuna all likely to return."

24 Joe Crede
Chicago Tribune, 11/27/06: Ken Williams says he doesn't foresee a long term deal for Crede -- " 'I wish I could have him on the club the next five years. But I do not anticipate any long-term deal there. I don't see that happening under the current landscape.' The 'landscape' would include the Cubs' re-signing of third baseman Aramis Ramirez for $75 million over five years and the fact that Sox nemesis Scott Boras is Crede's agent. That could make Crede one of the Sox players available for trade, along with young center fielder Brian Anderson and veteran pitchers Mark Buehrle and Freddy Garcia, who are on the final years of contracts."
Orange County Register, 11/23/06: "There have been persistent rumors of a possible Figgins trade to the White Sox for third baseman Joe Crede, whose 30 home runs and 94 RBIs would give the Angels the power guy they're looking for to protect Vladimir Guerrero in the lineup."
Chicago Tribune, 11/9/06: Crede opts for offseason strengthening program rather than surgery for his back.
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "His stock never has been higher, but having back problems and Scott Boras as an agent might lead to Sox moving him."
Chicago Tribune, 10/29/06: "Third baseman Joe Crede is the most expensive of the Sox's seven arbitration-eligible players, and whether he has minor back surgery could dictate whether he's offered a multiyear deal. Prospect Josh Fields is believed to be ready, but he's not Crede in the field."

27 Josh Fields
Chicago Tribune, 11/11/06: "Top prospects Ryan Sweeney and Josh Fields might be too valuable to include as part of any trade. Sweeney has a shot at becoming the Sox's Opening Day center fielder, and Fields could provide the Sox with the right-handed power off the bench they lacked in 2006."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "If Williams really wants to get creative, he could go after Tampa Bay Devil Rays outfielder Carl Crawford. But that likely would require sending a wave of young talent to the Devil Rays. That wave would have to include prospects such as pitcher Lance Broadway, third baseman Josh Fields and outfielder Ryan Sweeney."

17 Ross Gload
AP, 11/27/06: Gload signs one-year, $625,000 contract
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "GM Ken Williams thinks Gload can be an every-day starter and would allow him to be if the right team came knocking."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "The one luxury the Sox have is a deep bench. That won't change, with Alex Cintron, Rob Mackowiak, Ross Gload and Pablo Ozuna all likely to return."

15 Tadahito Iguchi
Chicago Tribune, 10/30/06: 2007 option picked up -- 2007 salary is $3.25 million

Andy Gonzalez {Added to 40-man roster 11/20/06}

14 Paul Konerko
62 Pedro Lopez

38 Pablo Ozuna
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "The one luxury the Sox have is a deep bench. That won't change, with Alex Cintron, Rob Mackowiak, Ross Gload and Pablo Ozuna all likely to return."

63 Casey Rogowski
25 Jim Thome

5 Juan Uribe
Chicago Tribune, 11/21/06: "Dominican prosecutors say they've seen no proof that White Sox shortstop Juan Uribe had anything to do with the shooting of two men, and they will not pursue charges if no evidence is presented within 10 days."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "...the Sox have to make a decision about shortstop Juan Uribe. Williams still was calling Uribe underrated at the end of the season, but if the Sox can upgrade that spot with a player who gives away fewer at-bats, they will do so."
Chicago Tribune, 10/30/06: "...the Sox remain hopeful that Uribe will be cleared of involvement in the Oct. 13 shooting of two men in the Dominican Republic as the case enters its third week."


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Outfielders
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44 Brian Anderson
Chicago Tribune, 11/13/06: "The Texas Rangers are exploring options to replace free-agent center fielder Gary Matthews Jr., who wanted more than $10 million a year to return, and are studying a possible pursuit of the White Sox's Brian Anderson."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "Depending on what the Sox do, Anderson is still very much in the picture and simply could slide to left field if a speedy center fielder is acquired."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/4/06: stomach ailment sends Anderson home from winter ball in Venezuela

23 Jermaine Dye
Chicago Tribune, 11/18/06: "The inflated market that includes marquee outfielders Alfonso Soriano and Carlos Lee could have a chilling effect on any negotiations with Jermaine Dye, who had a Most Valuable Player-type season (the winner will be announced Tuesday) and is entering the final year of his contract at $7 million."
Chicago Tribune, 11/11/06: "Bob Bry, Dye's agent, said last week he would like to start negotiations on an extension before the end of the year. But the Sox might let Dye finish the season unsigned and run the risk of letting him go to free agency or watching his price soar like Paul Konerko's in '05. A team that trains in Arizona, such as the Angels or Rangers, will be attractive to Dye."
Chicago Tribune, 10/30/06: 2007 option picked up -- "The 2007 option on Dye is worth $6.75 million, but it increases to $7 million if he finishes among the top 10 in American League Most Valuable Player voting, which will be announced on Nov. 21. That's pretty much a foregone conclusion with Dye, 32, coming off a career-best season in which he batted .315 with 44 home runs and 120 RBIs. Dye was considered one of the front-runners for the MVP award before he tailed off slightly at the end of the season. Still, $7 million is a bargain for those numbers."

10 Rob Mackowiak
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "The one luxury the Sox have is a deep bench. That won't change, with Alex Cintron, Rob Mackowiak, Ross Gload and Pablo Ozuna all likely to return."

7 Jerry Owens

22 Scott Podsednik
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/12/06: "With his pesky style, Podsednik was a catalyst for the Sox' offense in 2005. He seemed to lose confidence at the plate and on the bases last season, and the Sox may have lost confidence in return. There still should be a market for an outfielder who stole 70 bases two years ago."
Chicago Tribune, 11/11/06: "But by keeping Podsednik, the Sox may have to pay him around $3 million as an arbitration-eligible player. Re-signing all seven arbitration-eligible players is an ominous task."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "And that's where the Sox plan to make changes this offseason -- the top and bottom of the lineup, starting with Podsednik. If the speedy left fielder is in a Sox uniform come February, something went wrong in Williams' planning."
Chicago Tribune, 10/29/06: "...Podsednik could be non-tendered if he's not dealt before Dec. 12."

36 Ryan Sweeney
Chicago Tribune, 11/11/06: "Top prospects Ryan Sweeney and Josh Fields might be too valuable to include as part of any trade. Sweeney has a shot at becoming the Sox's Opening Day center fielder, and Fields could provide the Sox with the right-handed power off the bench they lacked in 2006."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "If Williams really wants to get creative, he could go after Tampa Bay Devil Rays outfielder Carl Crawford. But that likely would require sending a wave of young talent to the Devil Rays. That wave would have to include prospects such as pitcher Lance Broadway, third baseman Josh Fields and outfielder Ryan Sweeney."

Louis Terrero [New signing]
Chicago Tribune, 11/3/06: "The White Sox hope to rehabilitate the troubled career of Luis Terrero, once a top prospect, after signing him to a one-year contract Friday. He has been released twice and suspended twice already, but the 26-year-old outfielder will go to spring training with the chance to be an extra outfielder, depending on whether the Sox re-sign Scott Podsednik and how quickly youngsters Brian Anderson, Ryan Sweeney and Jerry Owens improve...Once thought to be a five-tool player after signing out of the Dominican Republic, Terrero never has shown that ability and has been a problem instead. He was suspended for 29 games in 2004 at Triple-A Tucson for throwing a ball into the stands and striking a spectator following an on-field brawl. He also was suspended in the minors for kissing home plate after hitting a home run...During spring of 2005, Arizona outfielder Luis Gonzalez told the Arizona Republic that Terrero had 'all the skills in the world. He has made some mistakes with the suspensions and doing silly things like throwing balls into the stands, but I think he's learning how to listen.' "


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Names in the News
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Roger Clemens (RHP)
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/12/06: "Though it is a long shot, the Sox also are expected to make a run at veteran Roger Clemens, who hasn't decided on retirement."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "Williams always has had a thing for Clemens, who is now a free agent. He would have to do the ultimate sales job to lure him to the South Side, however."

Carl Crawford (CF, Tampa Bay)
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "If Williams really wants to get creative, he could go after Tampa Bay Devil Rays outfielder Carl Crawford. But that likely would require sending a wave of young talent to the Devil Rays. That wave would have to include prospects such as pitcher Lance Broadway, third baseman Josh Fields and outfielder Ryan Sweeney."

Chone Figgins (OF/3B, Los Angeles-Anaheim)
Orange County Register, 11/23/06: "There have been persistent rumors of a possible Figgins trade to the White Sox for third baseman Joe Crede, whose 30 home runs and 94 RBIs would give the Angels the power guy they're looking for to protect Vladimir Guerrero in the lineup."
MLB.com, 11/9/06: mentioned as a possible candidate to replace Scott Podsednik

Eric Gagne (RHP, Los Angeles)
MLB.com, 11/9/06: article mentions Gagne as someone who might possibly reach the Sox's radar

Alex Gonzalez (SS, free agent)
Chicago Tribune, 11/18/06: Ken Williams firmly denies rumor Sox are close to signing Gonzalez

Andruw Jones (OF, Atlanta)
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/17/06: "But Williams always likes to aim high, and sources say the Sox have strong interest in Atlanta Braves center fielder Andruw Jones, who might be willing to waive his no-trade protection to play for Ozzie Guillen. Jones will be a free agent next season, but his agent is Sox nemesis Scott Boras, so that could be a deal-breaker."

Nick Masset (RHP, Texas)
Chicago Tribune, 11/13/06: "The Sox reportedly have scouted the Texas system intensely and could be interested in 24-year-old right-hander Nick Masset. A converted starter, he is having a big winter as a closer for Mazatlan in the Mexican League."

Gary Matthews Jr. (CF, Texas) [Signed by LA-Anaheim 11/22/06]

Juan Pierre (CF, Chicago Cubs) [Signed by LA 11/22/06]

Dave Roberts (CF, San Diego)
Chicago Tribune, 11/19/06: " It might take a three-year contract to land 34-year-old outfielder Dave Roberts, who is a consideration for both the White Sox and Cubs."
Chicago Tribune, 11/18/06: "Nor are the Sox hopeful of landing free-agent leadoff batter Dave Roberts."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/12/06: "Two free-agent center fielders -- Juan Pierre and Dave Roberts -- have expressed interest in the Sox. Neither is great defensively, but each could move to left field and do no worse than Podsednik."
Chicago Tribune, 10/29/06: "With the nucleus intact, the pursuit of a leadoff batter will come under the most scrutiny after Scott Podsednik's disappointing season. The agent for Dave Roberts has described his client as a good fit for the Sox, and the Padres' free agent might not be as expensive as fellow free-agent leadoff batters Juan Pierre and Gary Matthews Jr. Roberts, 34, is dependable at the plate and can play center field as well as left."

Alex Rodriguez (3B, New York Yankees)
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "Either there is still interest there or the Sox love using his name as a smoke screen. We shall see."
Boston Herald, 10/29/06: "There is sincere interest in A-Rod from at least three clubs - the White Sox, Angels and Cubs - and the Yankees will be gauging all potential trades in the coming weeks."
Chicago Sun-Times, 10/24/06: " 'Every time you mention [Rodriguez's] name, it seems like our name also comes up,' Guillen said in a phone interview. 'This kid is one of the best in the game. I don't know the exact direction we're going at this point because we're not sure about the [Joe] Crede situation...' 'Obviously, [Williams] might shop for him,' Guillen said of A-Rod. 'If he's going to make this team better, we'll try and do it.' "

Aaron Rowand (OF, Philadelphia)
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/17/06: "Williams is looking for some offensive punch in his outfield. Sources say the Sox have inquired about the possibility of getting Aaron Rowand back from the Philadelphia Phillies. Rowand, who was dealt to Philly last offseason for slugger Jim Thome, might be available if the Phils land free agent Alfonso Soriano."
WSCR Radio, 11/10/06: Rowand mentioned as a possible target for the White Sox in a trade
Chicago Tribune, 11/5/06: "Aaron Rowand, the biggest part the Philadelphia Phillies got from the White Sox in the Jim Thome trade, is unsigned at the moment because he and the Phillies both declined mutual options for 2007 that he originally signed in Chicago. The belief is he still will be in Philadelphia next season, as he's now arbitration-eligible as a five-plus player. Rowand's option would have paid him $3.5 million if he picked it up; the Phillies would have had to pay him $5 million if they exercised their side of it...'He's going to be here," [Phillies GM Pat] Gillick said. "It's just that there's a difference of opinion of what his compensation should be.' "

Justin Speier (RHP, Toronto)
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "The right-hander was a top setup man for the Blue Jays in '06, but he might be a bit pricey for the Sox when all is said and done."

Omar Vizquel (SS, San Francisco)
WSCR Radio, 11/10/06: Vizquel mentioned as a possible trade target for the White Sox

Dontrelle Willis (LHP, Florida)
Chicago Tribune, 11/13/06: "GMs say they receive mixed signals when they inquire about Florida left-hander Dontrelle Willis. His salary is expected to grow beyond $6 million and the Marlins are hoping to keep their payroll to $20 million. The Mets are among the teams watching that situation closely."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/12/06: "Williams, who always has an eye open for more pitching, will be among the GMs inquiring about Florida Marlins left-hander Dontrelle Willis. Williams has plenty of young talent to entice the cost-conscious Marlins -- and wouldn't be blamed for dealing McCarthy, 23, for an All-Star such as Willis, 24."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "Marlins are financially strapped, and Willis is expected to get a big payday in arbitration. Guillen loves the left-hander's enthusiasm, and he would be the perfect replacement for Buehrle."

Michael Young (SS, Texas)
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/12/06: "Sources say the Sox covet Texas Rangers All-Star shortstop Michael Young, who might be had in return for the kind of proven pitching talent the Sox are shopping."
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/5/06: "Rangers shortstop Michael Young, who has one year left on his contract, is someone the Sox are enamored with. Guillen has said on several occasions that Young is one of his favorite players, and trading for him would give the Sox the perfect No. 2 hitter, allowing Tadahito Iguchi to be moved to the bottom half of the order. The Sox think he'll be more effective there."

Barry Zito (LHP, Oakland)
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/3/06: "If the Sox trade two starters, that could free up enough money to join the Zito sweepstakes."


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White Sox Notes
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40-Man Roster Updated on 11/20/06
Chicago Tribune article

Starting Pitching -- Rumors and Rumblings
Chicago Tribune, 11/18/06: "With starters Javier Vazquez, Mark Buehrle and Garcia attracting the most interest in talks, Williams did acknowledge a scenario existed where the Sox could trade one starter for a young pitching prospect, sign one to an extension and let one leave via free agency for a compensation draft pick."
MLB.com, 10/30/06: "Garland and McCarthy have the highest trade value, but Buehrle, Garcia and Vazquez all have just one year left on their respective contracts. If Buehrle is not moved, Cooper believes the rotation's lone southpaw could return to ace status."

2007 Payroll
Chicago Tribune, 10/29/06: "The Sox will have earmarked about $99 million to 12 players for 2007...Williams wouldn't divulge whether the payroll would go up, but these appear to be lucrative times for the Sox after the latest collective-bargaining agreement and the transformation of the press box into club seats that could bring in an additional $5 million."

Beyond 2007
Chicago Tribune, 11/18/06: "Williams remains determined to retool the Sox pitching staff with high-level prospects and added that Carlos Vasquez played just as important a role as Aardsma in the Cotts' trade. He added any young pitcher who could be acquired could switch from reliever to starter down the road and compete with Charlie Haeger and 2005 first-round pick Lance Broadway for a spot in the rotation."
Chicago Tribune, 10/30/06: "Sluggers Paul Konerko and Jim Thome, pitchers Jose Contreras and Jon Garland and catcher A.J. Pierzynski are the only Sox players with guaranteed contracts beyond 2007."

White Sox Evaluating Options for Possible New Spring Training Home
Articles:
Arizona Daily Star, 11/14/06
Chicago Sun-Times, 11/15/06
Tucon Citizen, 11/16/06
Chicago Tribune, 11/28/06

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AL Central News and Notes
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Cleveland
MLB.com, 11/8/06: Cleveland Indians acquire second baseman Josh Barfield from San Diego -- "Barfield, a legitimate Rookie of the Year candidate in the National League this season, gives the Indians some much-needed speed and fills the gap at a position that lacked an everyday presence since the July 30 trade of Ronnie Belliard to the Cardinals."

Detroit
AP, 11/10/06: Yankees trade Gary Sheffield to the Tigers for pitching prospects Anthony Claggett, Humberto Sanchez and Kevin Whelan

Minnesota
AP, 11/3/06: Minnesota Twins' Francisco Liriano to undergo elbow surgery, will most likely miss 2007 season


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League Notes
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5-Year Labor Agreement Reached
AP, 11/3/06: "The highlights of the new agreement include a continued competitive balance tax structure that was implemented in 2002; continued revenue sharing and provisions requiring revenue sharing recipients to spend to improve on-field performance; an increase in the minimum salary; and modifications to the amateur draft...The drug program put in place last November will continue throughout the term, home-field advantage in the World Series will continue to go to the league that wins the All-Star Game, and there will be no contraction during the course of the agreement...Regarding the draft, clubs that fail to sign first- or second-round picks will receive the same selection in the subsequent draft as compensation. This will allow small-market teams the ability to go after the better players instead of settling for players who will accept the bonus money being offered."

A's Close to Moving to Fremont, CA
AP, 11/9/06: "The Oakland Athletics have reached a deal with Cisco Systems Inc. to build a ballpark in southern Fremont, according to city officials who met with the team's owner. The agreement would create a 32,000- to 35,000-seat ballpark to be named Cisco Field on a 143-acre parcel held by the company. If the plan is approved by the city, the A's could begin playing there as soon as 2011."


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