Rarely is Manny Ramirez called an Angel. But to hear Angels manager Mike Scioscia tell it, the idea is not as far-fetched as many believe.
After fixing their bullpen, The Mets are focused on securing another starting pitcher, preferably free-agent lefty Oliver Perez.
The team, though, also could seek to improve its pitching by signing free-agent catcher Jason Varitek.
Club officials are divided on how strongly to pursue Varitek, sources say. Some view him as a potential difference-maker for their pitching staff; others are alarmed by his .220 batting average last season.
For the Mets to land Varitek, they would need to move catcher Brian Schneider — who is guaranteed $4.9 million next season. Such a move should not be a problem; several teams are interested in Schneider.
The Mets, though, would need to decide whether the additional cost for Varitek would be prudent. Varitek, 36, wants a multi-year deal.
Some executives remain convinced that agent Scott Boras will require any team that signs Teixeira to also take Varitek; Boras rejected the Red Sox's offer of arbitration for Varitek, one exec says, only because he knew he could get a package deal.
Late-night calls
Mike Powers, the agent for right-hander Daniel Cabrera, said he received calls from five clubs on the pitcher between midnight and 12:30 Saturday. Cabrera, 27, became a free agent at midnight after the Orioles declined to offer him a contract.
Powers said he has heard from more than 10 clubs on Cabrera and received two offers. Numerous major-league scouts are expected to be in attendance Tuesday night when Cabrera pitches in the Dominican winter league.
Cabrera's velocity dropped from 96 to 99 mph to 88 to 91 in September, one scout says, raising concerns that he might be injured. Powers, however, said that his client is fine.
