Twins, Dodgers close in on Blake

Jamie Squire, Getty Images

CHICAGO - OCTOBER 02: Casey Blake #30 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reaches first on an error by Derrek Lee #25 of the Chicago Cubs in Game Two of the NLDS during the 2008 MLB Playoffs at Wrigley Field on October 2, 2008 in Chicago, Illinois.

The third baseman's agent says Minnesota and Los Angeles are showing the most interest in the veteran.

By JOE CHRISTENSEN, Star Tribune

Last update: December 3, 2008 - 10:56 AM

Print this story

More from Twins

The Casey Blake free agent sweepstakes is sounding like a two-horse race: Twins and Dodgers.

"We're certainly not that far apart with either club," Blake's agent, Jim McDowell, said Tuesday.

The Twins view Blake, 35, as an upgrade at third base, and they value his versatility. He can play left field, right field, first base and even played some second base for the Dodgers in the playoffs.

Blake, who has had two previous stints with the Twins, batted .274 with 21 home runs and 81 RBI this year with the Indians and Dodgers.

McDowell has had recurring dialogue with Twins assistant general manager Rob Antony, as well as GM Bill Smith, and the sides are "within shouting distance" on both years and money, McDowell said.

"The Dodgers have been persistent as well," he added. "From Casey's standpoint, he likes both organizations. ... We've had fewer discussions with the Indians, but they still remain interested."

The winter meetings are next week in Las Vegas, but Blake might not wait to sign.

"There are good reasons to try to get something done right now," McDowell said.

Spring schedule

With the World Baseball Classic stretching spring training even longer next year, the Twins will open their exhibition schedule on Feb. 25 against the Red Sox and finish April 4 against the Pirates.

The Twins usually have one off day during the exhibition schedule. This year, they'll have four before leaving Florida and playing the regular season opener on April 6 against Seattle at the Metrodome.

The exhibition schedule will last 35 games, with two coming against teams preparing for the WBC -- Puerto Rico on March 3 and the Netherlands on March 5.

Twins pitchers and catchers will report on Feb. 15, with the first full-squad workout slated for Feb. 21.

Spring season ticket packages are available, and single-game seats go on sale Jan. 10. For information, call 1-800-338-9467.