The GM meetings this week have provided some very interesting possibilities, both on the trade front and the free agent market. Its obviously very early in the offseason so a lot of these rumors will fly away but some may just happen. Lets take a look....

- The Yankees know the value that Johnny Damon brings to the top of their batting order. However, the Yankees could turn to free agent Chone Figgins. They could play him in left field. Figgins is a speadster and a little more then four years younger then Damon. One big reason the Yankees might decide to bring Damon back is that he has had success playing in New York, something that should not be overlooked.

- Money remains an issue as the Cubs try to trade outfielder Milton Bradley. The Tampa Bay Rays are the latest team to show interest in Bradley. They are discussing a swap of Bradley and Pat Burrell. However, the Rays want the Cubs to pay the majority of Bradley's contract. The Cubs have made it clear they want to trade Bradley. They would then like to move Kosuke Fukudome back to right field and sign a centerfielder. Marlon Byrd is a possibility.

- The Tigers budget is tight and therefore they are willing to listen to offers for some of their star players. Centerfielder Curtis Granderson is one possibility. They will likely want a lot in return for him however. Another star apparently on the trade block is starting pitcher Edwin Jackson.  He is available and the Dodgers are interested. I've seen rumors of a Jackson for reliever George Sherill deal. That certainly makes sense for both clubs.

- John Lackey is the top starting pitcher on the market this year. Expect many teams to at least inquire about him. The Yankees may be one of those teams. However, don't count out the Angels just yet. They remain interested in re-signing their ace.

- Catcher Jason Varitek has decided to use his option and stay with the Red Sox. The team had declined their option on him just a few days before. His time will likely be limited however since the Red Sox have brought back Victor Martinez.

- Free agent reliever, J.J. Putz would prefer to be a closer again but will consider a set-up role in the right situation.

- The Brewers have said they are not listening to offers for first baseman Prince Fielder, while the Rockies are listening to offers for outfielder Brad Hawpe.

- Ken Griffey Jr. has agreed to a one year deal with the Seattle Mariners. The Mariners seem very active early on. They are hoping to add some veteran talent this offseason. Lately they have been talking with the Blue Jays about acquiring first baseman Lyle Overbay. Its still up in the air if they will try to re-sign Russell Branyan.

- The New York Mets are planning to pursue just about every big name on the trade and free agent market. Expect them to show interest in pitchers like John Lackey and Roy Halladay, as well as position players Jason Bay and Matt Holliday. Some other rumors have been that they will show interest in catcher Bengie Molina and possibly even outfielder Rick Ankiel. The Mets need help in many area's if they want to contend next season. Starting pitching is a concern. They need to add at least one pitcher for the rotation. They also need bullpen help. If will be interesting to see how the Mets handle this offseason after missing out on some key players last offseason.