John Hickey has an update on Hiroki Kuroda this morning. It seems the Mariners, Dodgers, and Diamondbacks are competing for his services. Kuroda only wants a three-year deal, giving himself a chance to go back to Japan for the 2011 season if he chooses. According to Hickey, "Kuroda’s final decision will be between the Dodgers and the Mariners."
- Mariners: Hickey thinks they’re in the lead with a three-year offer in the $33-36MM range. The rumors of a four-year offer were false.
- Dodgers: They’re at 3/30 and are considered the Mariners’ biggest competition.
- Diamondbacks: Hickey says they’re also close to 3/30 but on the fringes, which might imply his source was not aware of their recently improved offer.
It seems Kuroda will make a decision within a week or so. Maybe by then the starting pitching market will start moving.
