A look at the latest from Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports…
- The Cubs and Giants were interested in reliever Rafael Betancourt before the Rockies offered arbitration to him yesterday. The Phillies were named as another suitor. The writers are not sure whether the Cubs and Giants maintain interest now that Betancourt will cost a draft pick (assuming the Type A free agent turns down the Rockies' offer). The Giants would have to surrender their #24 pick, the Cubs their #49. Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News gave the impression yesterday the Giants prefer to keep their first-round pick. As for the Cubs, one source with knowledge of the situation said there's nothing to it at this time.
- The Blue Jays have mild interest in Pirates catcher Ryan Doumit, who is guaranteed $9.15MM over the next two years. Doumit was sidelined by wrist surgery and a concussion this year. Looking at the trade market for catchers, the Jays have already inquired on Chris Snyder and Doumit, while Kelly Shoppach is now a Ray.
- While the Braves like D'Backs first baseman/left fielder Conor Jackson, Arizona would only trade him for a young starting pitcher. A Jackson trade appears unlikely and the Braves have not expressed interest recently. Jackson seems back on track and should be tendered a contract after a strong showing in the Domincan winter league.
