The San Diego Padres look to be making one last big move this offseason. General manager A.J. Preller may be closing in on a starting pitcher to add to the top of the team's rotation.
According to Joe Frisaro of MLB.com, the Padres are the "favorite, if not a lock already to sign James Shields." MLB Network Radio analyst Scott Miller also noted earlier today that talks between the two sides "have heated up and are gaining momentum" because the right-hander likes the idea of pitching in San Diego.
Shields, 33, is actually from San Diego and made it known earlier in the offseason that he prefers to pitch on the West Coast, since this is likely the last long-term contract he will receive in the MLB. It was reported yesterday that the Padres were believed to be the favorites, but such a claim didn't have much basis because San Diego was one of several teams linked to the right-hander this offseason.
Additionally, the Padres have been in trade talks with the Philadelphia for months now regarding a deal for left-hander Cole Hamels, who also happens to be from San Diego. However, the Padres would have to give up valuable top prospects as well as inherit at least $100 million on Hamels' contract in such a deal. Shields appears to be the most cost-effective and attainable option for the mid-market Padres.
Earlier this week the Padres payroll situation was further analyzed and sources determined they may have the flexibility to add a contract that Shields is seeking. He was originally looking for a five-year deal worth up to $125 million, but the market has perhaps decreased that number to four years and between $70 million and $80 million.
Padres' executive chairman Ron Fowler said the team's top executives have "had numerous conversations regarding payroll for 2015 and beyond," so it looks like their pursuit of Shields is within their budget.
UPDATE: Contract talks have reach an impasse, according to Miller, and the "ball is in Shields' court."
UPDATE: Shields is expected to make a decision today or Monday, according to Dennis Lin of U-T San Diego.
UPDATE: The Padres' most recent offer to Shields was said to be for four years and between $72 million and $80 million, according to FOX Sports' Jon Morosi.
