Mark Gonzales-ChicagoSports.com
Ken Williams, admits he will continue to exchange calls with teams regarding his third base situation that could last throughout spring training."There is no timetable on the third base issue," Williams said. "I view it as a positive. We have two very qualified guys [in veteran Joe Crede and Josh Fields] who can play the position and provide us offensive and defensive support.
"Crede remains under the most scrutiny because of his recovery from back surgery and because he can become a free agent after 2008.Crede's $5.15 million contract is very affordable to teams seeking a sure-handed third baseman with run-producing ability. Negotiations between San Francisco and Pedro Feliz has stagnated, and new Giants senior adviser of player personnel Ron Schueler was the Sox's GM during Crede's first five minor-league seasons (1996-2000).The Giants are listening to offers for left-hander Noah Lowry, who is signed through 2009 at $6.75 million for the two seasons with a club option for 2010 worth $6.25 million. He has 100 major-league starts, so he clearly has an experience edge over the 55 combined career starts of Sox Nos. 4-5 starters John Danks and Gavin Floyd.
Comment: The Joe Crede rumors re-surface once again. This time, its for Noah Lowry. The question must be asked if a solid starting pitcher worth a player who is coming off surgery (back) and who will be a free agent following the 2008 season. The free agency alone should raise eyebrows; but this coupled with his having Scott Boras as an agent should ring alarms at all levels. Nothing against the writer's speculation, but Lowry is probably worth more overall than Crede straight up, especially with the aforementioned being part of the puzzle. The Giants still have been strangely silent in every aspect of starting the re-building process in the post Barry Bonds era. Still needed, a thirdbaseman, a true three and four hole hitter and probably more depth in the bullpen. One wonders what the Giants brainthrust is currently thinking....or are they still reeling from the Mitchell Report and its possible ramifications?
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