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One front that remained silent among all the action this week were any rumors involving one David Price...until now.
Jeff Passan reports that the Price talks are expected to heat up as the week progresses, with the Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, Pittsburgh Pirates, Texas Rangers, Arizona Diamondbacks and Toronto Blue Jays all in the mix as teams with an interest and belief that they have the kind of players the Rays would desire for DP.
Per Passan, the Mariners seem to be the leading landing spot, with the potential addition of Robinson Cano increasing their odds. Taijuan Walker, a 21-year-old right-hander who is slated for big success, and was mentioned with Chris Archer in an article from Passan in September as two of the best young pitchers the majors will see in the next few years. Seattle fans are already displeased as the idea of losing one of their top prospects, with one blogger already comparing the trade to the likes of the James Shields-Wil Myers swap of last year.
With Walker could come a middle infielder like Nick Franklin or Brad Miller plus other prospects, though the Rays apparently are not set on youth, as they're open to the idea of "an established major league player with a team-friendly contract as the headliner" as well.
Three-way reflections
The front office and coaches made their rounds chatting post the early week moves, with both Matt Silverman and Jim Hickey chatting with "The Ron and Ian Show" Wednesday AM, discussing the additions of Ryan Hanigan and Heath Bell.
Andrew Friedman spoke with Fox Sports Florida, mentioning Tuesday's trade, the affinity Rays fans have for certain players, the remaining need for a first baseman and the faith the team has in Bell's success.
Wright, Johnson to Chicago, New York
Wesley Wright didn't last on the market long, signing a one year $1.425 million dollar deal with the Cubs yesterday while Kelly Johnson remained in the AL East, inking a one year contract with the Yankees rumored to be around $3 million dollars.
ICYMI: Danny put together 'Cursory thoughts on the Ryan Hanigan addition', and it is well worth your time.