Reds

http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2009/07/27/firmly-sellers-reds-are-close-to-a-deal/

The Reds are "sellers" and top club officials spoke on a special conference call Monday morning, an indication to a major league source that the team is "close to doing something," most likely involving one of its big-money pitchers: Bronson Arroyo, Aaron Harang or Francisco Cordero.

The Dodgers, looking for a veteran starter, are among the teams that have expressed some interest in Arroyo and Harang, but only as a fallback if they don't get Cliff Lee, the source said.

Arroyo has postseason experience and he's pitching well now. He has a 2.08 earned run average over his past three starts. For the season, he's 10-9 with a 5.21 ERA.

The Reds aren't likely to be able to move any of those pitchers without picking up some of their salary. Harang is signed through 2010, with an option for 2011 at $12.5 million next year with a $2 million buyout or a $12.75 million salary in 2011. Arroyo is signed for $11 million next with a $2 million buyout or an $11 million salary in 2011.

Cordero, an All-Star, is signed through 2011, with an option for 2012, at a salary of $12 million each year.

Teams could also have interest in setup men Arthur Rhodes and David Weathers.

Even though the Reds are apparently selling on this year, perhaps there is still a chance they go after Toronto third baseman Scott Rolen, who is signed for next year. A major league source told FanHouse's Ed Price that the Blue Jays were sending a scout to Cincinnati Monday to watch the Reds.