Jacobs to KC; Yankees serious about Manny

• The first notable trade of the off-season went down today, as the Marlins sent power-hitting first baseman Mike Jacobs to the Royals for relief pitcher Leo Nunez. Jacobs was nearly traded to Kansas City earlier in the week, but the deal fell apart as minor-league pitcher Carlos Rosa, the player Florida would have received, had some medical issues. The 28-year old Jacobs hit 32 homers and drove in 93 runs while posting a .247 batting average in 2008. Nunez, 25, posted a 2.98 ERA and allowed only 45 hits (only two of them long balls) in 48.1 innings.
• The Yankees are very serious about attempting to sign Manny Ramirez. Should they ink him, Ramirez would play right field.
• The Tigers declined Edgar Renteria's 2009 option. No surprise there.
• A.J. Burnett will decide whether or not he is opting out of his contract by Monday. More than likely, he will. Outside of the Blue Jays, the Yankees are the frontrunners to acquire his services. ESPN's Jerry Crasnick also names the Red Sox, Mets, Rangers, Orioles, and Nationals as potential suitors for Burnett, who is looking for around $16 million per year.
• It will certainly be interesting to see what kind of interest Pat Burrell generates on the market. He tailed off considerably after a torrid start to the season (typical Burrell). Given the fact that his defense is below average in left field, I could see him winding up as a DH in the American League. Either way, I would not discount the chances of him re-signing with the Phillies.
  
• The Brewers have named Ken Macha as their newest manager. He was given a two-year contract.