Roy Oswalt Rumors: Cardinals and Rangers in, Blue Jays and Indians out
Saturday morning it looked as if free agent starting pitcher Roy Oswalt had found a new home. Since reports surfaced stating Oswalt and the Cardinals had reached a one-year agreement, the situation surrounding the right-hander has been anything but clear. Today it’s being reported that Oswalt and his representation have told the Blue Jays and Indians they will not be signing the 34-year-old. As far as who might actually ink Oswalt, the Cardinals and Rangers appear to be the favorites while the Red Sox still consider themselves to be in the mix.
While their names haven’t been tied to Oswalt recently, Peter Gammonsof MLB.com reports that the Blue Jays and Indians were informed by the free agent that he has no interest in joining them for the 2012 season. Gammons adds that Oswalt’s top two targets are “clearly” the Rangers and Cardinals.
While Oswalt is scheduled to meet with the Rangers today and was reportedly close to reaching a deal with the Cardinals this weekend, Nick Carfado of the Boston Globe reports that the Red Sox “have not considered themselves out of the hunt” for the right-hander. Carfado notes that “those familiar with Oswalt’s thinking” say he’d prefer to land in St. Louis or Texas.
Regardless of where he signs, Oswalt is reportedly seeking $10 million for his one year of service. It seemed as if the righty’s tag had fallen into the $7-8 million range earlier this month, and though he’s aiming for eight figures, Oswalt may have to settle for something a little less this winter.
You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.