Blanco files for free agency

From the Seats, October 29, 2004

MINNEAPOLIS - On the first day that he could Henry Blanco filed for free agency which he was able to do in his contract. The Twins had picked up his option for 2005 that would pay him $750,000. He had a clause in his contract that allowed him to become a free agent if he exceeded 280 plate appearances.

Blanco ended up with 353 plate appearances since Joe Mauer ended up on the side lines with a knee injury most of the season. Blanco batted .206 with 10 homers and 37 RBI in 2004.

This was a bad move by Blanco, at least I think it is. The only reason that makes sense to me is that he would want more money. I dont see Blanco getting much more than $750,000 for being a back up catcher.

Radke also filed for free agency but says he wants to return to the Twins. Talks with the Twins and Radkes agent, Ron Simon should start soon now that the World Series is over. Twins would be wise to get a good deal on the table as soon as possible. There are a lot of teams interested in Radke, if the right deal is not on the table it could inspire him to take a look at those.

The Indians, Red Sox, White Sox, Yankees and Twins all seem to be interested in the right hander veteran. I think that is all the teams, there are so many, hard to keep them strait.

This is when it gets interesting.