Burnett to Atlanta; Markakis and Pedroia

It looks like the Braves may be in the hunt for Burnett, and may be ready to offer him what he wants -- a five year deal.

Via the New York News: Just as they were finalizing a trade for Javier Vazquez, the Braves were preparing a five-year offer for A.J. Burnett, according to sources. Burnett, considered the No.2 starter on the market, was expected to wait for Sabathia to make the first move. But with the Yankees, Red Sox and Blue Jays all apparently hesitant to give Burnett a fifth year, the 31-year-old might jump at Atlanta's offer before Sabathia makes his decision.

The Braves need pitching and want to get back into the NL East hunt. At this point, who knows what happen and if Burnett may use the Braves to increase his price, or he if he'll sign. With times being so uncertain and the oft-injured hurler being signed to his 37th birthday, he may sign with Atlanta.

However, I think the Braves may be taking a huge risk with Burnett and considering the conservative nature in which they hand out contracts, signing him may not be wise and it was a definite surprise to hear this.

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While many are waiting for news to come out from the Warehouse about any important signings, moves, etc., the Red Sox went ahead and signed Dustin Pedroia to a six-year, $40.5 million contract extension, with an option for 2015, that takes them through three arbitration and two free-agent seasons. Smart move for the Sox; thus, what does this for Nick Markakis and the Orioles.

Nothing at all.

A Markakis deal will get done at some point; however, with the winter meetings on the horizon along with the team trying to find arms for the rotation, as well as a shortstop (Khalil Greene?) the Orioles had to put the discussions on the back burner.

Folks, the sky isn't falling yet; therefore, we should not worry. Then again, it seems important the team sign simply sign the right fielder for credibility purposes amongst the fanbase, and he wants to be here, so let's let the discussion -- no matter how slow it may be -- take its course.