Believe it or not, Spring Training is only a few days away. Pitchers and catchers report later this week, but there are still several well-known free agents left on the market. With a few notable news and rumors floating around, let's dive into them with our MLB Rumors Roundup for Feb. 15th.
Orioles Update
Last week, it was rumored that the Orioles were close to landing pitcher Yovani Gallardo and were showing interest in Dexter Fowler, Jay Bruce and Pedro Alvarez. The Orioles have yet to make any moves, although it seems like it's just a matter of time before Gallardo is signed, at the very least. But the latest intriguing piece comes from Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com, who reports the Orioles have talked to the Padres about several players. James Shields and Andrew Cashner were part of one potential deal, but the teams couldn't agree to a deal.
Baltimore also inquired about Matt Kemp, but it's unlikely he'll be heading east. The Orioles are still very much active and it wouldn't be a surprise for them to make a few moves before Opening Day. For more MLB coverage, download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app.
Fernandez Upset With Marlins?
According to The Miami Herald, star Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez isn't too happy with the organization. A "friend of Fernandez" told writer Barry Jackson that Fernandez was upset about the team's trades last summer, the removal of the team's pitching coach and that former player Jeff Baker "soured Fernandez and others on the front office." While Jackson says the team and Fernandez will make the situation work, eventually Fernandez will leave Miami. It will either come via trade or free agency, as it's highly unlikely the Marlins will be willing to give Fernandez the $30 million contract they think he'll get.
Yadier Molina Update
The St. Louis Cardinals' catch has had the cast removed from his surgically-repaired right thumb. General manager John Mozeliak told KMOX Radio (via the Associated Press) that he's hoping Molina can be ready for the start of the season.
"The cast came off. Obviously now it's about gaining strength back," Mozeliak said. "I really think in about two to three weeks we should have a pretty good idea if he's on pace to be ready to go at the beginning of the season or not. But I think we've just got to be patient. But right now all arrows point positively, and that's exciting."
The Cardinals could still add another catcher before the start of spring training, but it appears they'll go with Brayan Pena as the main early season starter/backup.
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