Inside Angels-Marlins talks

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Angels' big offer for young hitting star Miguel Cabrera included top young hitter Howie Kendrick, young catcher Jeff Mathis, one of two coveted young pitchers -- Nick Adenhart or Ervin Santana -- plus an additional pitcher prospect described as a "mid-level'' talent, SI.com has learned.

The Angels thought that was the winning bid several days ago. But when Florida came back to the Angels and demanded that both Adenhart and Santana be included with Kendrick and Mathis, the deal fell apart. The Angels were unhappy the Marlins balked and a rejuvenation of the trade probably would require Florida coming back and accepting Los Angeles' original proposal.

The specific players hadn't been identified previously. But Angels owner Arte Moreno let his frustration out when he told the Los Angeles media a few days ago, "They came back and asked for more. They're doing it to everybody.''

It is believed the Marlins' idea to put both Adenhart and Santana into the deal came from club owner Jeffrey Loria and club president David Samson after the Marlins' baseball people seemed amenable to the trade.

Along with the Angels, the Dodgers, Giants and White Sox are believed to be the most active pursuers of Cabrera, with the Rangers, Indians and Mets also inquiring. The Angels have been seen as the frontrunner for Cabrera since they have a good fit with Florida, which seeks a top young hitter, a catcher, a center fielder and pitching in return. The Angels also have a surplus of outfielders after signing Torii Hunter to a five-year, $90-million free agent contract.

Other teams have expressed similar frustration with the Marlins. While some are suggesting now that Florida is "just fishing,'' most believe Cabrera still will be traded.

Cabrera, who hit .320 with 34 homers and 119 RBIs, made $7 million in 2007 after an arbitration victory in 2007 and is expected to receive $11-12 million this year through arbitration.