December 27, 2008 The Orioles discussed catcher Ivan Rodriguez with agent Scott Boras, according to the Baltimore Sun.
Our View:It remains to be seen if I-Rod would accept a deal with the Orioles as he would have to ride the pine when Matt Wieters is deemed ready to step in.
December 24, 2008 The Marlins are discussing Ivan Rodriguez as a possibility for their backup catching vacancy, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View:Pudge had a nice year in 2003 when he won the World Series with the Marlins, so perhaps he could rekindle of that magic if he made the return to Miami.
December 17, 2008 Ivan Rodriguez will represent his home of Puerto Rico in the 2009 World Baseball Classic, according to the Associated Press.
Our View:Pudge is all about his homeland this year, as he's also playing there in winter ball. Perhaps he'll find his stroke again with the extra practice as last year was the first time since 1992 in which he failed to reach double-digits in home runs. He probably won't have much fantasy value if his trending decline continues.
December 11, 2008 Ivan Rodriguez said that he will play winter ball in his home country of Puerto Rico, according to the Associated Press.
Our View:Pudge hasn't played in his homeland since the 1995-96 winter ball season. He continues to be one of the stronger defensive catchers in the game but his days as a productive fantasy player might be coming to a close. He had just seven home runs and 35 RBI in 2008 while batting .276.
December 2, 2008 There is speculation that the Marlins may be interested in bringing back Ivan Rodriguez as they are trying to trade Matt Treanor, as reported on MLB.com.
Our View:The Yankees declined to offer him arbitration. Rodriguez batted .297 with 16 homers and 85 RBI during his lone season with the Marlins in 2003, and could benefit from a return.
