December 23, 2008 The Rangers would like to free up some money, and may do so by purging the salaries of Kevin Millwood, Vincente Padilla, and/or Hank Blalock, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.
Our View:Doing so would help clear payroll to reel in starting pitcher Ben Sheets.
December 18, 2008 MLB.com reports that Kevin Millwood has already shed 12 pounds this offseason as he prepares for 2009. If he pitches at least 180 innings next season, he will be a lock to receive his $12 million salary in 2010. He has not hit that mark in either of his past two seasons. "I'm doing everything I can to make sure it happens," Millwood said. "Getting in shape is part of it. The other part is going out and performing."
Our View:Millwood appears to be the de facto ace of the Rangers staff at this point, but there have been plenty of trade rumors surrounding him. Should the Rangers move him, they would likely go hard after Ben Sheets.
December 10, 2008 MLB.com reports that the Brewers may be interested in trading for Kevin Millwood.
Our View:The Rangers want another right-handed bat, but it seems odd the Rangers would give up one of their few proven pitchers. Not that Millwood is that good, but the Rangers do not have many options in their starting-five.
November 25, 2008 The Braves have talked to the Rangers about Kevin Millwood, but are not interested in trading for him.
Our View:Perhaps they asked about him as a backup plan in case they cannot add another arm to their rotation, such as AJ Burnett.
November 23, 2008 The Mets are reportedly interested in Kevin Millwood, according to NYBaseballDigest.com.
Our View:Millwood would be viewed as a backup plan, in case they cannot land other targets, such as Derek Lowe and Jon Garland.
