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Here’s a quick round to start your Tuesday…

• I guess we need to acknowledge the Rookie of the Year awards. Nobody can really argue Dustin Pedroia as the AL didn’t really have a standout crop of rookies. I think Delmon Young gets shortchanged because of his attitude and the late season incident, but Pedroia was really the only choice. The NL was interesting as Ryan Braun was selected over FCP favorite Troy Tulowitzski in a close (understatement) vote. Braun was prodigious (shout out to Clyde Frazier there) at the plate since his May call up, while Tulo was a consistent contributor for the NL champions. Tulo is a solid defensive shortstop while Braun is said to be an outfielder in waiting. I don’t put too much stock into these awards, but I think Tulowitzski got shortchanged because he was consistent and didn’t have that amazing stretch like Braun did. Either way, they both had tremendous rookie campaigns.
• The Tigers dealt Omar Infante to the Cubs for Jaque Jones. It’s one of those unspectacular deals that could help both clubs. If Jones is paired with Marcus Thames out in leftfield, that could be one productive tandem. I think Jones’ days as an effective regular are behind him, but I do think he was better than what he showed last year with the Cubbies. Infante plays a lot of positions and if he’s not traded, I can see Lou Piniella really liking this guy’s versatility. I hope this is the sign that more trades are coming. Hot Stove baseball is starting to heat up.
• Speaking of heating up, true free agency begins today. There will be quite a few rumors flying around, early, but I think most of the “big names” will sign later, rather than sooner. Speaking of big names, Mariano Rivera was quoted as saying that the Yankees were still his first choice, but Joe is in LA so that’s an option. It could be a negotiating ploy, but the Yankees would deserve it if Mo goes to LA. The Yankees treated their best player quite poorly last winter by not locking him up and giving Mo the sense of respect that he felt he deserves. My guess is he’s a Yankee, but there could be some tense moments.
• In other Yankee news, Jorge Posada agreed to a 4 year, 52.2 million dollar deal. Most people are saying it’s a bit too much, but I can’t really argue with this one. The catching alternatives for this year are horrendous. While the last two years of the deal may be regrettable, Posada could always DH or play first base. Like I said in a previous Fungos section, he does not have the wear and tear of a typical catcher. The Yankees had to do this. The mistake Cashman made was not getting this done last year. It probably would’ve saved a couple of dollars.
• It’s nice to see the Royals wanting to be a player in the free agent market. Their papers have them interested in Torii Hunter. While I don’t think he’ll sign there unless they overpay (like Gil Meche), it’s nice to see them looking to build. The Royals have a good foundation and with the right moves, they could be competitive. Unfortunately, they will have to overpay to get guys to play there until they become a factor in the race.
• Why is Larry King speaking for Jeff Kent? I have no more to add to this, but it’s a question that’s been in my head since last night when I was reading the papers.
• Another non-baseball related item: If you’re into sports radio, check out the Max Kellerman Show on 1050 ESPN radio New York, 10AM-1 PM weekdays. The show is entertaining and Max does talk a lot of baseball. He doesn’t give the typical stuff, which is rare in this day of people just yelling in the microphone. If you’re looking for some smart baseball talk, Max does a great job.

That’s it for today. Enjoy the day!  I’m looking forward to all of the Free Agency stuff. Fire back.