Old Time Family Baseball

Rays sign Jeff Salazar. There was a time when Salazar seemed to be the trendy choice for aging player who may one day put it all together. He’s now 31, hasn’t seen the Majors since 2009, and has fallen behind Oscar Salazar for best Major League Salazar. The Rays also picked up Brad Coon. 

Milo Hamilton to retire. I won’t pretend to enjoy Hamilton’s broadcasts, but it’s always sad when the voice of a team steps down. There are plenty of children in Houston who have probably heard Milo’s voice more often than their own parents. 

Jorge Soler may have already agreed to deal with Cubs. The 19-year-old centerfielder may not have been declared a free agent yet, but that hasn’t stopped him from agreeing to terms with the Cubs. While there are ramifications should the story be proven true, just like amateur athletes can only have “advisors,” I’m sure nothing will come of it. 

White Sox sign Kosuke Fukudome. I hope he hung on to his Chicago apartment.  

Chunichi signs Victor Diaz. Baby Manny makes it to Japan. 

Indians sign Jon Garland. The Indians could win 70 games or the Indians could win 90 games. I really wouldn’t be shocked either way. Their roster is full of okay older players, disappointing younger players, and prospects that grade out as solid but not spectacular.