Quick Hits: Juan Gone, News on the Bucs

Juan Gone an O? According to Jesse Sanchez of mlb.com, Juan Gonzalez at 38 years old is eyeing a return to the majors to cross the 500 homer plateau. He’s been playing in the Caribbean Series and he says he’s in shape, pain free and feels good. However, he listed the teams that were interested in him, below…

“According to published reports in Puerto Rico, the Angels, Tigers and Orioles have all expressed interest in signing the former two-time American League Most Valuable Player.”

Why would the O’s want him? He’s well past his prime, and perhaps a bench player, pinch hitter or at best a DH, but the last thing the Orioles need is another DH, much less a player past his prime.

National League batting champion Freddy Sanchez avoided arbitration and agreed to a one-year, $2.75 million contract Saturday with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

As well, the Pirates also signed relief pitcher Dan Kolb to a minor league contract in which he’ll compete for a sport on the roster. Kolb will make $1.25 million if he makes the team and could earn another $1.3 million in incentives.

Only 11 more days until Spring Training!