Here’s a rundown of Hot Stove news this morning…

  • First, Ken Rosenthal has the latest information up from the hot stove. To lead off the report, Rosenthal has a bit on Omar Minaya, whose job security coming off an epic pennant race collapse is not as safe as it was a year ago. The value of the Mets prospects aren’t currently as enticing as other teams and this could make for a hard time for Omar if he cannot find a trade for a top pitcher.The San Diego Padres may sign C Mike Piazza if Michael Barrett rejects their offer of arbitration. Barrett is drawing interest from the Marlins, Rays and Orioles.

    The Washington Nationals have asked the Milwaukee Brewers for 2B Rickie Weeks in return for closer Chad Cordero due to their pressing need for a closer. The Brewers have made Weeks close to untouchable.

    Both the Mets and Yankees are showing interest in free-agent reliever Octavio Dotel.

  • The Providence Journal is reporting that Johan Santana has told the Twins that he is willing to waive his no-trade clause only for the Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees. He has made it clear that he also will not accept an in-season trade. The report also states that yesterday, indications surfaced that the Sox have also had discussions with the Milwaukee Brewers regarding Ben Sheets. The Sox also see Dan Haren as an alternative if they fail to trade for Johan Santana.
  • The Washington Post reports that Orioles LHP Erik Bedard has informed the team that he has no interest in signing an extension to stay in Baltimore beyond 2009. The Mets and Dodgers have engaged in serious discussions with the 28-year old ace. Last week, the Mets offer of Lastings Milledge, Aaron Heilman and Philip Humber was rejected. The Orioles will likely require Matt Kemp from the Dodgers if they make any run at Bedard.
  • Despite a previous report, the Pittsburgh Pirates have denied that they have considered non-tendering Xavier Nady if they cannot trade him.
  • After trading starting catcher Brian Schneider to the Mets on Friday, the Washington Nationals failed to name Jesus Flores as the starting catcher. In fact, he may start the season in Triple-A. The Nationals are currently in the market for a starting catcher, likely for a one-year deal. They seem to expect Flores to become their full-time starting catcher by the 2009 season.

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