Skip to main content

Phillies, Dodgers lead pursuit of Oswalt; more deadline notes

  • Author:
  • Publish date:
roy-oswalt-ap2.jpg

The Phillies and Dodgers appear to be the most active pursuers of star Astros pitcher Roy Oswalt right now. But teams are still complaining about the asking price.

The Astros aren't happy with Oswalt's representatives wanting an option year picked up for $16 million.

The Cardinals and Rangers appear to be on the periphery at this point.

In other deadline news:

• There hasn't been a lot of action on the Cubs' Ted Lilly, who has about $5 million left on his contract. Some baseball people believe the Twins could be a logical landing spot for him, though, if the Cubs move him.

• A couple teams have shown interest in Astros first baseman Lance Berkman. But again, there are complaints about the asking price. "Drayton [McLane, Houston's owner], wants the moon,'' said one competing GM.

• The Rangers are talking to the Marlins about Jorge Cantu, but if Florida has to pick up some of his $6 million salary, they want a big prospect or two back. That could still happen, but there appears to be work to do.

• Toronto is looking for a lot for top reliever Scott Downs, who's having a nice year as the Blue Jays' closer. The Jays also have Kevin Gregg and Jason Frasor available from their pen. The Mets, Red Sox, Yankees, Rockies and many others have inquired.