2:53pm: Stark says the Phillies "stepped up their efforts" for Ibanez. What’s more, Ibanez has been telling friends the Phils are his top choice.
12:18pm: According to ESPN’s Jayson Stark:
Even as the Angels continue to pursue Mark Teixeira, it appears that Raul Ibanez has emerged as their No. 1 alternative if Teixeira signs elsewhere. There were indications that the Angels already have begun negotiating the parameters of a deal with Ibanez on a just-in-case basis.
Ken Davidoff said the same in his blog earlier today. The Phillies, Mets, Nationals, and Cubs are other known suitors.
