Monday, March 18, 2013
Is Lohse getting antsy?
By Jason A. Churchill
Kyle Lohse remains a free agent, but Ken Rosenthal reported last week that the Texas Rangers have stayed in touch with Lohse's agent, Scott Boras.
In an updated story, Rosenthal hears from a friend of Lohse that the pitcher is getting "antsy," although ESPN Baseball Tonight analyst Mark Mulder questions that claim.
At this point, it seems prudent to ask what might change for the Rangers going forward. They already have lost Martin Perez for several weeks with a broken arm, but if that isn't enough to get them to cave on Lohse, the situation probably rests on the right-hander's asking price.
The Rangers would surrender their first-round draft pick if hey signed Lohse, who was tendered the qualifying offer by the St. Louis Cardinals. The Rangers pick No. 24 overall, but they do have an extra pick at No. 30 for losing free agent Josh Hamilton.
The Yankees also have extra picks to cover such a loss, but do not appear to have any interest, and perhaps it makes that that they do not.
One dark horse for Lohse may be the Reds if they decide Aroldis Chapman belongs in the closer role once and for all. They have enough starters, but Lohse may be viewed as an upgrade to Mike Leake. The Reds' first-round pick is the final selection of the round at No. 28, but they also own pick No. 37 as a result of the competitive balance lottery.
The Giants, who pick No. 26 overall, could see an opportunity with Lohse, especially with the struggles -- and pending free agency -- of Tim Lincecum.
