Twins: Redmond sees buddy Lowell staying in Boston

By Joe Christensen, Star Tribune

Last update: November 9, 2007 - 8:51 PM

Twins catcher Mike Redmond is a close friend of Mike Lowell's from their days with the Marlins, and the two buddies will have a weeklong get-together with their families in January at Redmond's home in Spokane, Wash.

Lowell is one of the top third basemen on the free-agent market, but as much as Redmond would like to recruit him to Minnesota, he's keeping his expectations in check.

Lowell was named Most Valuable Player of the World Series for Boston after batting .324 with 21 home runs and 120 RBI during the season.

The Red Sox reportedly have offered a three-year contract worth between $12 million and $15 million per season.

Lowell, who turns 34 in February, is believed to be seeking a four-year deal, which could be a sticking point for the Red Sox. But it's a good bet the sides will resolve this before other teams can make formal offers Tuesday.

"I would be surprised if they got rid of Mikey because of all the intangibles he brings," Redmond said. "Would he be a great fit for our team? Of course he would. But the money is going to be up there with what Torii [Hunter] gets."

The Twins had internal discussions about trading for Lowell when he struggled in recent years, though nothing came of it. Redmond said he was thrilled watching Lowell flourish in Boston this season.

"Not just because he's my buddy," Redmond said. "I'm so proud of him because three years ago people were like, 'This guy's done.' And I'm thinking, 'No way.' "

Silva draws lots of interest

The teams interested in Twins starting pitcher Carlos Silva include the Mets, Phillies, Royals and Tigers. Detroit's interest hinges partly on the Tigers' new uncertainty over whether they can re-sign Kenny Rogers.

The Royals, who gave Gil Meche a five-year, $55 million contract last season, believe Silva would slot in nicely in their rotation with Zack Greinke, Brian Bannister and a group of candidates that includes Kyle Davies and former No. 1 pick Luke Hochevar.

Hunter still on Rangers' list

The Texas Rangers' interest in Hunter is still described as significant, though they kicked the tires on center field trade options at the general managers' meetings in Orlando. Like the Twins, the Rangers have interest in Boston's Coco Crisp.

Hunter appeared to lose one potential suitor when Houston acquired speedy center fielder Michael Bourn from Philadelphia in Wednesday's Brad Lidge trade. The Astros say Bourn will start in center and Hunter Pence will move to right.

The White Sox might need to trade starting pitcher Jon Garland if they want to land Hunter. Their payroll reached $109 million last season, and they owe raises to Mark Buehrle and Jermaine Dye.

Rincon granted residency

Twins GM Bill Smith called reliever Juan Rincon with good news last month, notifying the Venezuela native that he had received his permanent residency in the United States.

Rincon, who is spending the offseason in Miami, also received Smith's approval to pitch winter ball in Venezuela. He will begin Dec. 10.

"They just want me to be smart about it," Rincon said.

Joe Christensen • jchristensen@startribune.com

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