Hot Stove Talks

So things are heating up this baseball offseason, but in rumor only. There have, though, been a few big deals that have hit the majors so far.

In a surprise move, the Oakland Athletics traded for Matt Holliday, sending Huston Street, Greg Smith, and Carlos Gonzalez to the Rockies. Odd that the A's wanted a 1-year rental of a player like Holliday, unless they are planning on making more big moves and trying to make a run at a World Series this year.

Jake Peavy has yet to be traded, and sources are now saying that the Cubs were never really involved in the Peavy talks, and that the Padres likely leaked that story just to drive up the price on the starter. It looks like the Braves are currently the biggest, and perhaps only, bidder.

The Washington Nationals acquired Scott Olsen and Josh Willingham from the Marlins in exchange for Emilio Bonifacio, P.J. Dean and Jake Smolinski. A bit of an odd move, as the Marlins may be delaying their 6-year championship cycle by a few years.

The Yankees resigned Damaso Marte to a 3-year $12 Mil deal with an option for 2012.

The Red Sox might be looking to bring back Derek Lowe. Rumors have it they're looking for strike-throwing ground ball pitchers. Although to be honest, I'm not sure I'd want anyone on the pricetag that Scott Boras would demand, but it'd be nice to have Lowe back, he is the most solid pitcher on the market with no question marks except his age (35).

Those aside, the rest of the Hot Stove seems to be hot rumors and not much getting done. Then again, the winter meetings haven't happened yet and at that point we'll start seeing some high flying dealing and signing. Who's excited? VendorBall is excited!