Sabathia, Teixeira draw big interest
If the Dodgers sign CC Sabathia, don’t count on them to re-sign Manny Ramirez.
Asked whether it would be possible to sign the two superstar free agents who could command annual salaries in excess of $20 million each, General Manager Ned Colletti replied, “I think that would be difficult.”
Sabathia received an offer from the Milwaukee Brewers over the weekend that is believed to be worth about $100 million, according to multiple reports. He is expected to fetch more on the open market.
Agent Scott Boras is seeking a six-year deal for Ramirez.
Colletti said he hoped to speak to the agents of Ramirez and Sabathia over the next few days at the general managers’ meetings in Dana Point.
In what might’ve been a slip of the tongue or a negotiating ploy, Colletti revised the list of the Dodgers’ top three priorities this winter, which a week ago included the re-signing of Ramirez. The list on Monday consisted of solidifying the left side of the infield, the bullpen and starting pitching.
Told that he didn’t mention Ramirez, Colletti replied, “You could add that one.”
Maddux to retire?
Boras said that Greg Maddux’s Hall of Fame career probably ended when the Dodgers were eliminated by the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League Championship Series.
Boras said he spoke to the 42-year-old Maddux at a charity function last week.
Though the agent said that Maddux hasn’t made a final decision, he added, “As it looks now, it’s doubtful that he’ll play.”
Maddux, who has won four Cy Young Awards, has a record of 355-227 with a 3.16 earned-run average. He was 8-13 with a 4.22 ERA in 2008, including 2-4 with a 5.09 ERA with the Dodgers.
Rodriguez waiting
The Angels have two of the game’s most prominent -- and expensive -- free agents in first baseman Mark Teixeira, who could command $20 million per year for up to 10 years, and closer Francisco Rodriguez, who is seeking a five-year, $75-million deal.
But the club’s primary focus is on Teixeira.
“They did tell Frankie that their No. 1 priority was Teixeira -- they’re going to try to sign him and then get back to us,” said Paul Kinzer, Rodriguez’s agent. “We understand that. Right now, we’re going to see what the market holds.”
Rodriguez filed for free agency Monday.
The Angels are more than willing to pay Teixeira $20 million per year but would prefer a deal in the six-year range, not 10 years. They figure to get stiff competition from the New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles and Boston Red Sox.
Angels General Manager Tony Reagins wouldn’t say whether he has made Teixeira an offer.
The New York Mets are expected to pursue Rodriguez, who this season set a major league record with 62 saves. The Angels would like to retain the right-hander, but not at the price he is seeking.
Dodgers, Angels in play for Peavy?
San Diego Padres General Manager Kevin Towers said the Dodgers and Angels are potential destinations for 2007 Cy Young Award winner Jake Peavy.
Towers said he has had preliminary discussions with Colletti about a potential deal and that he planned to revisit those talks this week. Towers said that the Dodgers would be charged a premium because they are in the National League West, same as the Padres.
Peavy, who has a full no-trade clause, would consider a trade to only two American League teams, the Angels and the Yankees, Towers said.
To approve a trade to the Yankees, Peavy would probably ask for a new contract comparable to whatever Sabathia gets. Towers said he didn’t think that would be necessary if he can strike a deal with the Angels.
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mike.digiovanna@latimes.com
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