three more MLB signings

Three more players have inked tentative deals with baseball clubs today. Former all-star starter Mike Mussina signed a two-year pact with the NY Yankees. Though this fastball can reach the mid-90's, it's not his strongest weapon. That title goes to his nasty knuckle-curve, over which he exhibits sterling control, as he does with all his pitches. Defensively, having Mussina on the mound is like having a "short-shortstop" playing in the middle of the diamond and he can keep runners close to the bag. On the down side, he's traditionally a bit of a slow starter and tends to have trouble with runners in scoring position. Presently, he's slated to pitch in the no. 2 or 3 position, depending on how they rank Randy Johnson, who's getting on in age.

Reliever Danny Baez is moving south to Tampa Bay this winter. Baez throws a nice mid-90's fastball with good movement and an ever-improving curveball. He's very effective pitching in tight spots, especially in the late innings. However, he's been known to have problems with his mechanics, so he has to be sure not to tinker with a good thing. Baez will provide a veteran presence in a young bullpen.

Finally, the Blue Jays have reached a tentative deal with catcher Rod Brajas. At the plate he has some pop and is able to take advantage with runners in scoring position. Behind the plate, he's got the arm and smarts of a good big-league catcher. His bat is just far too inconsistent. He's extremely aggressive at the plate and, although he makes contact fairly frequently, too often it's for outs and he'll rarely stick around for bases on balls. Brajas will be a defensive upgrade over Molina and Zaun, but an offensive down grade over both catchers.