[whitesox.com]:
The Chicago White Sox have finalized their amateur scouting staff for 2008, adding two regional crosscheckers and five area scouts. The moves were announced this afternoon by Doug Laumann, White Sox director of amateur scouting. Nick Hostetler is the White Sox new east coast crosschecker, while Derek Valenzuela, formerly a professional scout with the organization, takes over as the west coast crosschecker. Mike Baker (Southern California), Kevin Burrell (Georgia and South Carolina), Jeff McKay (Pacific Northwest), Joe Siers (North Florida) and Gary Woods (Southern California) have joined the Sox as area scouts. In addition, Joe Butler has been added to the White Sox professional scouting staff after covering Southern California and serving as a special assignment amateur scout. Ed Pebley and Nathan Durst remain in their roles as national crosscheckers.
[whitesox.com]:
The Chicago White Sox have agreed to terms on a four-year, $19-million contract with free-agent right-handed reliever Scott Linebrink and have requested waivers on infielder Alex Cintron and outfielder Scott Podsednik for the purpose of granting their unconditional releases. Under terms of the deal Linebrink will receive $4 million in 2008, $4.5 million in 2009, $5 million in 2010 and $5.5 million in 2011. ... With the moves, the White Sox 40-man roster is at 40.
- The Linebrink signing seems so much better now: "He also has a no-trade provision." For pitchers not named Mark Buehrle, the Sox are happy to give contracts larger than 3 years with no-trade clauses.
- Omar wants pitching. Beane's prices went up. Can Kenny grab Lastings somehow?
- Bad News: Boston wanted 3 prospects for Coco Crisp. Good News: the White Sox may be interested in The Great Fuku. Speaking of The Great Fuku, BTB takes a look.
- Vote Raines says Tango. Another vote by BP's Jay Jaffe.
- Jim examines the Podsdenik Paradox.
- BP looks at the Orlando Cabrera trade and Kenny's other moves.
- BA previews the upcoming Rule V draft.
- Nate Silver asks Is Baserunning A Skill?
- FJM talks Torii.