Winter Meetings notes from 2012

Last year the MLB Winter meetings were held in Nashville, TN.  Here are some brief notes on what happened last year.

Jul 31, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers general manager Jon Daniels takes questions from the media at a press conference after the trade deadline had passed at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

During the winter meetings last year Boston Red Sox and Mike Napoli agreed to a 3 year deal worth $39 million.  The Texas Rangers didn’t offer him a qualifying offer.  Which would have allowed them to receive a first round draft pick if another team would have signed them.  As we know now, the Red Sox instead took Napoli in a one year deal with $13 million instead.  Napoli went on to have great year at first and at the plate.

Joakim Soria and the Texas Rangers finalized a $8 million contract for  two-years.  Soria was coming off an injury.

Also, the Texas Rangers re-signed catcher Geovany Soto to a one year deal worth $2.75.  It was speculated he would be the starting catcher until later the Texas Rangers picked up A. J Pierzynski.

During the rule 5 draft, Tommy Mendonca and Chris McGuiness were drafted.  Tommy was picked up by the Oakland Athletics.   Chris was picked up by the Cleveland Indians.

Near the end of the winter meetings, Michael Young was dealt to the Philadelphia Phillies.

There were talks of bringing Josh Hamilton back, but the Angels went all in with him.

Also, the Rangers seemed like a favorite for landing Zack Greinke.  And also showed interest in signing Justin Upton.

The Texas Rangers didn’t make very many waves during the 2012 winter meetings or the offseason in general.

This year, they have already made waves with the blockbuster trade for Prince Fielder for Ian Kinsler and also the 4 player deal that brought Michael Choice over from the Oakland Athletics for Craig Gentry.

This year during the 2013 Winter Meetings I would expect more to happen than in 2012.  Jon Daniels says they are continuing to look for some offense.  They still need to fill the void in the outfield left by David Murphy and Nelson Cruz.  One of the top names that is available is Shin-Soo Choo and Nelson Cruz.  Hopefully we’ll see some action in the next few days.