The free agent signing train seem to be chugging along slower than usually, despite lower gas prices. The trend continued today, with only one signing of note as of 5 PM EST, and that was the re-signing of Ryan Dempster by the Chicago Cubs. According to the Chicago Sun Times, Dempster will receive a 4-Year, 52 Million dollar deal. Dempster had a career year (when do free agents ever do that!? *cough*), posting a 2.96 ERA and finishing 6th in Cy Young voting. The Cubs needed Dempster, and if he has continued success then it’s a great signing. I expected 4/48, so it’s a bit more than that. It is easily just as bad of a signing as it is a good one if you consider Dempster’s career. He’s a major leaguer, there’s no doubt about that. But he spent the better part of 2005-2007 as a sub-par closer, and over 7 seasons a starter, it was only his second sub-4.00 ERA season.

Other headlines:

- The Yankees are preparing an offer for A.J. Burnett in the 5/80 range according to the New York Post. It’s unfortunate that someone with his attitude doesn’t go the way of the Shea Hillenbrand. I hear the media friendly Oakland Raiders are looking for an upgrade at Quarterback.
- Peter Gammons believes that Milton Bradley is the priority of the Blue Jays this off-season. There is no questioning Milton Bradley’s skill - but with Lind and Snider, it makes more sense to go after Jason Giambi or Rafael Furcal. Milton Bradley doesn’t bring the necessary power to the team.
- Alex Rodriguez is named the - oh, sorry, I was wrong. Turns out Dustin Pedroia was selected as AL MVP by mistake due to ballot confusion from Florida sports writers.

Free Agency