MLB Free Agents 2014 Rumors: Colorado Rockies Interested in Ervin Santana, Kansas City Royals Still in Play
Ervin Santana remains unsigned few weeks before Spring Training kicks off, but the free-agent pitcher could find a new team soon, as long as he lowers his previous asking price.
According to reports, at least eight teams are interested in acquiring Santana, but teams are still waiting for the final asking price of the 31-year-old pitcher before making a move.
The Denver Post reported that the Colorado Rockies are highly interested in the veteran pitcher, but are still on the fence about signing Santana at his current price.
The right hander was originally looking for a five-year deal worth around $112 million. The projected contract terms are expected to change after Matt Garza, one of the top free agent pitchers on the market this year, agreed to sign a four-year, $52-million contract with the Milwaukee Brewers.
Reports said that Santana might be willing to accept a four-year deal worth $60 million in the next few days.
"The Rockies have mild interest in Santana, but are not pursuing him at his current price. They are also are reluctant to surrender a draft pick, even a competitive balance selection around the 35th overall. Santana's asking price is unknown. He started the winter seeking $100 million according to multiple reports. It's safe to assume he wants to match what Garza received from the Brewers - four years, $52 million," the Denver Post reported.
Santana spent his first eight seasons in the major league with the Los Angeles Angels before being dealt to the Kansas City Royals in October 2012. Last season, the nine-year veteran went 9-10, while posting a career-high 3.24 ERA with 161 strikeouts in 211 innings.
However, the Royals decided to go in another direction this offseason and focused on signing Jason Vargas instead of retaining Santana.
When asked about a possible change of plans before the start of the new season, Royals general manager Dayton Moore said that Santana is still on their radar, but he is quite sure that their former starter will find a new team soon.
"We're continuing to monitor his situation, and the level of our involvement has yet to be determined," Moore told the Kansas City Star. "He was a terrific pitcher for us last year. I'm confident Erv will get a very good deal."