Johnson talks hit snag; Red Sox want Cordero

Red Sox, Nationals talk Chad Cordero
The Boston Red Sox have been pursuing Washington Nationals' closer Chad Cordero all off-season long, but it appears that they will have to pay a steep price to get him. The Nationals apparently want 22-year old right-hander Clay Buchholz, a pitcher that Boston is extremely high on. They are also interested in Craig Hansen and Michael Bowden, with Bowden being the preferred one of the two. The Red Sox are also looking at Pittsburgh's Mike Gonzalez or Houston's Brad Lidge to fill the gap at closer, but talks went nowhere. Several sources also believe that Boston and Washington did not have any serious discussions about a possible trade for the 25-year old Cordero. If the Red Sox are not able to acquire a closer in the off-season, don't rule a return to the bullpen for Jonathan Papelbon. Julian Tavarez may also get the job.

Chris Reitsma in detailed discussions with Reds
It looks like Chris Reitsma is going to sign with the Cincinnati Reds. The 29-year old right-hander is well into discussions with Cincinnati despite receiving offers from six other teams.

Lastings Milledge for Joe Blanton?
The New York Mets and Oakland Athletics may make a trade that would send New York outfielder Lastings Milledge to Oakland for starting pitcher Joe Blanton, according to Ray Ratto of the San Francisco Chronicle. If appears that Blanton will definitely be dealt, whether it's to the Mets or not.

Randy Johnson deal hits snag; Padres back in sweepstakes
Despite several reports that a Johnson-to-Arizona deal had been completed, the potential trade has hit a snag over money, the one aspect that could possibly hold up the deal. The Arizona Diamondbacks not only want the New York Yankees to eat some of Johnson's 2007 contract, but they also want them to throw some money into the deal. The New York Post reported that the Diamondbacks have only offered minor-leaguers for Johnson despite the rumors that major-league reliever Brandon Medders was to be included in the deal. The newspaper also believes that Brian Cashman may be stockpiling minor-leaguers to try to pull off a blockbuster trade for Johan Santana of the Minnesota Twins or Dontrelle Willis of the Florida Marlins, although Florida has stated multiple times that Willis is untouchable. The San Diego Padres may also sneak back into the Randy Johnson sweepstakes, as their offer of Scott Linebrink, Kevin Kouzmanoff, and a prospect intrigued the Yankees.

Mark Mulder pondering over offers
Mulder has reportedly received a two-year, $8 million offer from the Cleveland Indians with $7 million in incentives. The Texas Rangers are offering less than $8 million in guaranteed money, but they may offer a package of $18.75 million. There is no word on any offers from the St. Louis Cardinals, but they are still believed to be in the running for Mulder's services.

Rodrigo Lopez drawing interest
Five teams are reportedly interested in the 31-year old Lopez, with the St. Louis Cardinals considered a possibility.

Giants may be interested in David Wells
Wells has preached his desire to stay in California, and although the San Diego Padres appear to be the frontrunners to sign the 43-year old left-hander, the San Francisco Giants may jump in. The Phillies, Diamondbacks, and Mets may also be interested in Wells, but any of those three would be unlikely.