Roy Oswalt Rumors: Red Sox, Rangers and Cardinals Edition
Saturday morning baseball fans awoke to the news that free agent starting pitcher Roy Oswalt had reached a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals. These statements were soon retracted and the Cardinals are now denying that they have an agreement in place for the veteran starter. It appears an deal could be announced at any time, though there are still several clubs remaining in the mix for Oswalt beyond the Cardinals, including the Red Sox, Rangers and Astros.
Yesterday it seemed as if Oswalt would be landing with the Cardinals, if not immediately than over the next few days. While this appeared to be the case, several reporters added that the Red Sox and the surprise Astros also remained in the mix for Oswalt.
Little word came out yesterday regarding the Red Sox and Astros, and all the Cardinals would do is deny that a deal was in place. Meanwhile, the Rangers saidthey were hoping to meet with Oswalt and his representation on Monday, assuming he is still on the market at that time.
Sources have added that the Rangers don’t have an offer out to Oswalt. Two clubs have reportedly extended proposals to the right-hander, the Red Sox and Cardinals, but both of these contracts are said to be in the $5 million range. Most expect it will require around $7-8 million to ink Oswalt this winter.
The Red Sox would appear to be the best fit of the bunch, as the Rangers and Cardinals would have to move someone from their projected starting five to make room for Oswalt.
While money figures to play a role in the signing process, Oswalt is reportedly more interested in remaining close to his Mississippi home and playing for a team that can give him a shot at a World Series title in 2012. These points have caused many to speculate that Oswalt will eventually land with the Rangers.
You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.