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SIGN HIM UP:*Angel Pagan has enjoyed a productive 11-year career in MLB, but his past success has yet to be rewarded with a suitable contract for 2017.
Speaking before representing Team Puerto Rico in an exhibition game against his most recent team, the San Francisco Giants, Pagan made it very clear that he’s still seeking a major-league deal this spring, and this is his reason why.
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“I just don’t feel I need to be fighting for a job,” Pagan told the media on Wednesday. “If a team wants me to help them*win, they know I can help them win.”
Confidence and patience are two good things to have in baseball, but they may not be paying off for Pagan this winter. He produced solid numbers last season, hitting .277/.331/.418 with 12 home runs and 15 stolen bases. He can play all three outfield spots, which adds to his value. But it seems teams are content giving opportunities to younger talent, rather than guaranteeing a veteran of Pagan’s caliber a job.
It’s reported Pagan has received several offers, including one from the Braves, but none have been a guaranteed MLB deal. Perhaps he can*use the WBC as a reminder of what he brings to the table, because right now MLB teams aren’t ready to bite. *[@sfgiantsbeat]
BETTER BY THE DAY: Red Sox left-hander David Price offering encouraging news about his ailing arm on Wednesday, noting that he’s getting “better by the day.”
Price will not be allowed to pick up a baseball again until this weekend at the earliest after being shutdown last week due to a mild flexor strain and bone spurs in his left forearm. Manager John Farrell says the team won’t make any decisions until seeing how he feels Friday and Saturday. Once he does throw, they’ll have a better idea of when he can return to game action. Despite the positive outlook, they intend to take things slow and cautiously. [MLB.com]
WHITE SOX PREVIEW: The Chicago White Sox are going to take a step back in 2017, but the hope is their rebuild will lead to a better future and sustained success. [The Stew]
HERE WE GO AGAIN:*The Dodgers set a dubious MLB record with 28 different players landing on the disabled list last season. They’re not off to a great start this spring either, specifically with Justin Turner and Scott Kazmir both ailing. The good news is Turner’s expected to return to the lineup later this week after receiving a preventative lubricating injection in his knee. As for Kazmir, is hip soreness has subsided, but the Dodgers still plan on holding him out for a week to work on his mechanics. [@kengurnick and @Bill Shaikin]
SLOW RECOVERY: Expected Rays opening day shortstop Matt Duffy might not be ready to go for April 3. His recovery from September Achilles surgery has been slower than anticipated, which will push his spring debut past the mid-point in March. Given the nature of his injury and recovery the Rays certainly won’t rush him. He’ll likely have to remain behind in extended spring training until he proves he’s ready to go. [@TBTimes_Rays]
WBC RECAP: Here’s a look at the most recent World Baseball Classic results and a look ahead at what’s scheduled for Thursday. [The Stew]
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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter!Follow @Townie813