Reviewing Baseball 1/4/15

Today’s edition begins with somber news, as we collectively mourn the loss of Stuart Scott at the age of 49. Scott battled cancer on and off for the last seven years. His popular phrase “cooler than the other side of the pillow” is one I commonly use in my own day-to-day lexicon. His former co-anchor, Rich Eisen, gave a heart wrenching tribute for him this morning that you can see here. Our thoughts and prayers are with Scott’s family.

Here are some news and notes from around baseball:

The Giants are hot in pursuit of Ben Zobrist, according to reports. Several GMs around baseball are said to believe the Giants will put together a package of prospects to land the super utility man from the Rays. Also reportedly interested are the Nationals, Cubs, and Angels.

The Orioles and pitcher Chris Tillman are reported to have “mutual interest” in an extension. Orioles GM Dan Duquette was asked about the Orioles 11 arbitration eligible players in a recent interview with Roch Kubatko.

The Orioles have also had discussions with the Dodgers about outfielder Andre Ethier, according to another Kubatko story. Manager Buck Showalter also met with free agent Colby Rasmus to determine if the outfielder could be a fit with the club.

Dan Haren has reportedly told the Marlins he wants to pitch somewhere else in 2015. Haren was traded from the Dodgers to Miami along with Dee Gordon last month, with Los Angeles including $10 mil to cover Haren’s salary. Haren has not been shy about his preference to pitch in southern California.

The Royals have reportedly agreed to a minor league deal with pitcher Ryan Madson. The 34 year old hasn’t made an appearance since 2011 due to elbow troubles.

Around Milwaukee:

T.J. Hoogsteen of Grading on the Curve looks at the Brewers MiLB All-Stars from 2014.

Adam McCalvy of mlb.com discusses why a bounce back from Ryan Braun is important in 2015.

John Sickels at Minor League Ball listed the Brewers top 20 prospects for 2015.

Justin Schultz of The First Out at Third foresees a big season for Mike Fiers.

Around the Site:

Our article “Emilio Bonifacio: A Perfect Fit for Milwaukee” was featured on this week’s edition of MLB Trade Rumors “Baseball Blogs Weigh In.”

Also this week, we took a look at why the Brewers should pick up Keyvius Sampson, talked about why Milwaukee should avoid Nick Swisher, and made five bold predictions for the 2015 Championship Season.

Countdowns:

Pitchers and Catchers Report: 47 days

First Spring Training Game: 59 days

Opening Day: 92 days

Happy Independence Day Burma!