Johnson deal close; Mets want starter

Yankees, Diamondbacks closing in on deal for Randy Johnson
According to the New York Daily News, the New York Yankees and Arizona Diamondbacks may complete a trade for Johnson as soon as this weekend. The Yankees want either Dustin Nippert, Micah Owings, or Ross Ohlendorf included in the deal. They appear to be coveting Nippert the most. If a trade does go through, expect Arizona to lock up Johnson through 2008 so he can win his 300th game as a Diamondback.

Yankees close to signing Doug Mientkiewicz; looking at Mark Loretta, Ron Villone, and Scott Schoeneweis
The Yankees are also close to an agreement with Mientkiewicz to play first base and are thinking about making a move on Loretta as a back-up infielder. New York is also trying to bring back left-handed reliever Ron Villone and are also talking to Scott Schoeneweis, another lefty reliever, in the process.

Mets may make trade for starter; target Rich Harden and others
Since the Florida Marlins have repeatedly stated that Dontrelle Willis is off-limits, expect the New York Mets to turn their attention to Rich Harden of the Oakland Athletics. Omar Minaya recently spoke with Billy Beane and offered him a package of Lastings Milledge and Aaron Heilman for Harden, but Beane declined. Other pitchers that interest the Mets include Danny Haren and Joe Blanton of Oakland and Jon Garland and Javier Vazquez of the Chicago White Sox. However, because Chicago has already dealt Brandon McCarthy, it appears that neither Garland or Vazquez are available. Also, if Bartolo Colon of the Los Angeles Angels becomes available, the Mets may pursue him. Rumors have it that Colon would be available if the right deal comes along. Some baseball executives also believe that Brad Penny of the Los Angeles Dodgers may soon become available. However, some say that the Mets have no interest in Penny.

Indians, Rangers, and Cardinals all interested in Mark Mulder
It looks as if the Mark Mulder sweepstakes is down to three teams, although no frontrunner has emerged.

Mariners unlikely to move Adrian Beltre, Richie Sexson
Unless Seattle can get a big bat in return, don't expect either Beltre or Sexson to be dealt this off-season.

Javy Lopez could sign with Rockies
Lopez's agent, Chuck Berry, said he has had several discussions with Colorado and that his client would not be afraid to compete for a job.

Shannon Stewart appears destined for Baltimore
The Orioles are making an effort to sign Stewart to an incentive-laden contract that would protect Baltimore in case Stewart's recurrent foot injuries pop up again.