Around the majors

• The Yankees are reportedly interested in relievers Ron Mahay and Scott Linebrink. Because Linebrink is a type A free agent, they would have to relinquish their 28th overall draft pick to Milwaukee in exchange for the right-hander. The Astros, White Sox, and Pirates all have interest, as well. In Mahay's case, no draft pick would have to be given up in return because he is a type B free agent. Several other teams are also looking at him, namely Atlanta, the Brewers, Tampa Bay, Colorado, and Kansas City.
• The Rangers are discussing a potential five-year deal with Torii Hunter. Hunter met with Rangers' brass last night. The White Sox, Dodgers, and possibly even the Brewers will also make a play at the outfielder.
• The Indians signed Japanese reliever Masahide Kobayashi to a two-year, $6.25 million contract. Kobayashi, 33, went 2-7 with a 3.61 ERA in Japan last season.
• The Mets are rumored to be trying to make a trade with the Nationals involving catcher Brian Schneider and outfielder Ryan Church. Second baseman Ronnie Belliard was also a part of the talks at first, but the signing of Luis Castillo took Belliard out of the picture.
• The White Sox designated Scott Podsednik for assignment. They are also aggressively shopping shortstop Juan Uribe, as he is now out of a position due to the acquisition of Orlando Cabrera. The Devil Rays are showing interest in the 28-year old who hit 20 homers in 2007. Chicago, who just dealt Jon Garland for Cabrera yesterday, may be trying to clear payroll to sign Hunter.
  
• Pittsburgh relievers Solomon Torres, Damaso Marte, and John Grabow are all on the trading block and drawing interest. Marte is probably the most valuable of the three, as he posted a 2.38 ERA and struck out 51 in 45.1 innings last season.
• The Phillies may have interest in Baltimore's Melvin Mora. Mora would waive his no-trade clause should he get dealt to Philadelphia.
• Don't be surprised to see the Giants put Bengie Molina on the block, and with the scant supply of catchers in free agency, he would draw plenty of interest despite his old age.