Nov 19
3B Garrett Atkins, who became a bench player last year while making $7.05 million, will not be tendered a contract by the Dec. 12 deadline. The Rockies could release Atkins on Nov. 20 when 40-man rosters must be set, if they feel any mild trade possibilities won't become realistic in a few more weeks. It's hard to see any club trading for Atkins and only being able to cut his salary 20 percent and being at the mercy of the arbitration process when he's about to become a free agent.
Nov 11
Texas would be interested in Atkins if he's non-tendered by the Rockies as expected, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Recommendation: Texas doesn't really need a corner infield bat, particulary with Justin Smoak nearly ready for the majors, so the interest figures to be minimal.
