Scratch the Nationals off the list of possible destinations for Dexter Fowler. The Blue Jays and Nationals completed a deal Friday night that gives Dusty Baker a veteran outfielder with speed that can hit at the top of his lineup.
The Nationals sent RHP Drew Storen and cash to the Blue Jays for OF Ben Revere and a player to be named later.
In just over 24 hours, two teams that were believed to have interest in Dexter Fowler have gone in different directions for an outfielder. The Giants signed Denard Span and the Nationals acquired Ben Revere.
The Padres and Marlins have been connected to Fowler this off-season. And there is a chance Fowler could re-sign with the Cubs if a spot is opened for him in the outfield.
Bruce Levine listed the Rangers, Mariners, Indians and White Sox as contending teams that could use a centerfielder. Levine did not specifically report that either one of the teams is interested in Fowler. Levine said there would be a fit for Fowler with each of the four teams.
According to Bruce Levine, the Cubs and White Sox would be better defensively with Dexter Fowler in center field. The Cubs could have Jason Heyward play his natural position of right field. And the Sox could shift Adam Eaton to right field.
Levine reported in order for the Cubs to re-sign Fowler the “assumption would be that 23-year old Jorge Soler could be moved in return for pitching, in either the rotation or bullpen, before bringing on Fowler would be considered.”
Fowler is not alone on the free agent outfield market. Justin Upton and Yoenis Cespedes are still available as the second week of January begins. Gerardo Parra is also available, but the Rockies are believed to be the front-runner to sign him. Parra landing in Colorado is likely tied to the Rockies moving Carlos Gonzalez, Corey Dickerson or Charlie Blackmon.
Outfield Rumors
• The Blue Jays are not expected to try to replace Ben Revere. According to Jon Heyman having Dalton Pompey and Michael Saunders on the roster made Revere expendable. Plus, Junior Lake gives the Jays depth in the outfield if he makes it through Spring Training.
• Jeff Passan denied saying Justin Upton is seeking a one-year deal. Passan clarified the report and said, “Some executives think it may be his best bet if market does not pick up.”
• Justin Upton’s agent, Larry Reynolds, talked to Jon Heyman and said his client is “not considering shorter term deals at this time.” Justin Upton is still looking to sign a long-term deal.
• According to George Ofman, the White Sox “might go to four years” on a contract for either Yoenis Cespedes or Justin Upton. And Upton is “intrigued with the South Side” but the White Sox “are more interested in Cespedes.” According to Ofman either player could sign for one or two years. Ofman further explained the Sox “might be open to a four-year deal, but very unlikely they go past three with either player.”
• According to Buster Olney, Scott Boras is marketing Chris Davis as a corner outfielder as well as a first baseman. Olney reported, “Teams say agent Scott Boras has been pushing to create options for Chris Davis. Selling him hard as everyday right field/left field option as well as a first baseman.”