BYB HOT STOVE VOLUME: LUCKY XIII

Here we are in week 13 of BYB's Hot Stove column and the truth is, there are a number of free agents who remain unsigned.  There's only 61 days until the 2015 season begins and 24 days Spring Training.  Despite the cold temperatures in the Northeast, the stove is hot with prospects for those who want some last minute additions to ramp up their teams before pitchers and catchers report in a couple of weeks.

According to Paul Hagen of MLB.com, "The biggest name, of course, is Big Game. That would be right-hander James Shields, who was considered one of the top three starters on the market going into the offseason. The other two, Jon Lester and Max Scherzer, cashed in with huge deals with the Cubs and Nationals, respectively."  Could the Yankees be in contention for Shields?  Not if he wants a big contract for big bucks.  We will not dish out that kind of time or money.  Not sure he will be in Yankee pinstripes, but according to Hagen, the Padres, Marlins, Blue Jays and White Sox have expressed interest.  According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Cardinals seem to have the pulse on Shields.  I would say he will find a home within the week.

Three other starting pitchers to keep an eye on are Kyle Kendrick, Chris Young and Roberto Hernandez.  None are particularly impressive, but 29-year-old Young was named AL Comeback Player of the Year, if that accolade means something and it might for the right price and right team.

There are some familiar relief pitchers still available as well.  Joba Chamberlain is on the outskirts looking in, as is Francisco Rodriguez and Rafael Soriano.  We will pass on all of these guys, all have who have played in New York.  Another New York alum out there is hard throwing Phil Coke.

Outfielder Ryan Ludwick is a free agent up for grabs.  According to Hagen, "Ludwick has dealt with shoulder problems since he posted an .877 OPS for the Reds in 2012, but he still showed some power last season with nine homers in 357 at-bats."  For the right price, maybe.  According to Jon Heyman in a late evening tweet, Cleveland is looking for a late "cost-effective right bat."  Ludwick could be the guy for the Indians.  Also note that Andruw Jones is looking to make a comeback too and could be somebody the Indians considers.

That's Hot Stove Volume Lucky 13!  Here's to hoping we sign somebody next week!  Maybe we will have a shot at the young Cuban athlete Yoan Moncada, who is free to negotiate!  Keep an eye out for that breaking news!

--Suzie Pinstripe, BYB Senior Staff Writer
BYB Hot Stove Columnist
Twitter: @suzieprof



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