Shields call soon; SD favored, Cubs possible
Free agent James Shields remains in play, but that soon could change. (Getty Images)
Star free-agent right-hander James Shields is expected to make a decision soon — perhaps Sunday or Monday — with the Padres probably correctly perceived as a favorite, if not the favorite, and the Cubs seen as the major outside threat as things appeared headed toward a resolution.
The field appears to be narrowing, with the Marlins and Jays, two teams that have been in contact with Shields’ camp at some point in recent days, not currently seen as being at the forefront of the Shields talks. The Cardinals, at some point viewed as a logical suitor, were mentioned as a fifth alternative in a report Sunday that named the other teams, but they’ve told folks they aren’t afraid to try talented right-handed reliever Carlos Martinez in the rotation. So they would be a surprise at this point, as well.
Interested teams appear to be awaiting a final verdict, with some around the game seeing San Diego, where Shields makes his offseason home, as the logical favorite. The Cubs are potentially an interested stalking team, though, especially with Shields’ old Rays manager Joe Maddon there now.
Shields isn’t expected to come close to early $100 million projections, and there’s been no evidence yet to confirm that an alleged $110 million, five-year pass that was circulating as a rumor in baseball circles ever existed. It is believed multiple teams have showed a willingness to extend a three-year offer, and one interested GM said agent Page Odle suggested he had at least one four-year offer. At this late juncture, baseball people say they believe Shields would do well to get anywhere close to $20 million annually.
There was a report Saturday that talks with the Padres and Shields were “gaining momentum,” by Scott Miller of Bleacher Report, though later reports by Miller and others gave no indication anything was certain yet with San Diego.
The Padres, aggressive throughout the winter, are seen as intent on landing a veteran starter to enhance a talented young rotation, with the Phillies Cole Hamels believed to be the other main alternative. The Cubs were first identified a few days ago by David Kaplan of CSN Chicago as showing some interest, and Cubs sources later suggested they could well be interested, but probably only if the price fell to a very reasonable level.
Shields has always been seen as a strong third free-agent option, but it’s surprising he’s still available following big free-agent scores by Max Scherzer, who received a free-agent record $210 million, seven-year deal from the Nationals, and Jon Lester, who got $155 million over six years from the Cubs. Chicago also signed veteran right-hander Jason Hammel to a $20 million, two-year deal, so the need may be stronger in San Diego. The timing also may be better there, too, as the Cubs may still be seen as being a year away from contention.
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