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People's Choice Awards
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People's Choice: Red Carpet
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People's Choice: Backstage
REDS NOTES
Reds quietly continue hunt for starting pitcher
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
NASHVILLE — As an organization that prescribes muzzles for its front-office people — see no evil, speak no evil — the Cincinnati Reds are able to hide in the weeds when it comes to trades and free-agent signings.
"Some people like to talk more than I do," said General Manager Wayne Krivsky.
Extras
It is why the Reds shocked and stunned the baseball nation last month when they signed closer Francisco Cordero to a four-year, $46 million deal. There was no hint the Reds were in the hunt, and when Milwaukee free agent Cordero agreed to a contract with the Reds, even Brewers General Manager Doug Melvin was caught with his mouth open.
So, with the Reds in search of a starting pitcher, is it out of the question they were in the mix to land Minnesota's Johan Santana or Florida's Dontrelle Willis?
The Reds have never been mixed in with the rumors involving Santana and/or Willis, and when Krivsky was asked if that's because they are not one of the pursuers, Krivsky said, "I never said that we had never talked to teams about the higher-end pitchers. I'm looking at any way I can to improve the team within the parameters that I have."
So maybe it is not surprising that a rumor did trickle out that the Marlins might talk about trading Willis to the Reds for outfielder Josh Hamilton and a prospect.
The Marlins decided they weren't interested in Hamilton, but asked for pitchers Homer Bailey and Johnny Cueto. Answer? No, no, no.
The Marlins then turned to Detroit and reportedly made a blockbuster, sending young, high-priced stars Miguel Cabrera and Willis to the Tigers for six prospects.
There is still hope. The Chicago Cubs, led by manager Lou Piniella's enthusiasm, would love to acquire Hamilton from the Reds for a starting pitcher — Sean Marshall or maybe even Mark Prior.
What's the problem?
The Reds aren't anxious to deal Hamilton, even with a surplus of outfielders, and it is known that every team that approaches the Reds wants their top prospects — Hamilton, Jay Bruce, Bailey, Johnny Cueto and Joey Votto.
And yet, Krivsky says, "You have to give up something of quality to get a quality starting pitcher. Typically, you deal from where you have depth to fill a hole. And that's where depth in the minor leagues comes into play."
As for the silent treatment, Krivsky said, "I'll be aggressive when the timing is right and try to go get something done."
Lobby lizard
Former Reds interim manager Pete Mackanin is hanging around the Opryland Hotel lobby seeking employment, although he won't apply for bellman.
Mackanin, who stepped in for manager Jerry Narron last season when the Reds were 31-51, turned it around and led the Reds to a 41-39 record the rest of the season.
He was told he would be considered for the permanent post after the season, but the Reds began talking to current manager Dusty Baker as soon as they fired Narron and never gave Mackanin an interview.
Mackanin, though, holds no grudges. Krivsky offered Mackanin his old job back as an advance scout. Mackanin has interviewed for a job with Tampa Bay, but if that falls through he may return to the Reds.
Shack to LA
The Dodgers will announce within the next couple of days the signing of former Reds relief pitcher and free agent Brian Shackelford, who the Reds traded to Tampa Bay last June for Jorge Cantu.
Quote of the day
Linda Krivsky was spotted walking the sprawling Opryland Hotel catacombs for the third time in one day, and a writer said, "I see you more than I see Wayne (Reds GM Wayne Krivsky, who seldom leaves his room)." Said Linda, "And I see you more than I see him."
