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The Tampa Tribune joined the masses in reporting that the Rays have talked to the Cardinals about trading for first baseman Tino Martinez, a Tampa native. The Cards would have to pay almost all his 2004 salary -- $7 million -- and the deal would be just for one year. If the Rays do trade for Martinez, Aubrey Huff would either stay in right field or move to DH, if the Rays sign an outfielder; Reggie Sanders or Jose Cruz Jr. have been mentioned as possible targets.
The Rays and Cardinals are believed to be close to an agreement on how much of Martinez's $7.5 million contract St. Louis will pay in 2004. Sources have said that figure likely will be between $6 million and $7 million. The contract also includes an $8 million salary or $1 million buyout for 2005.
The Cardinals, who plan to move all-star Albert Pujols to first base next season, likely would receive a minor-league position player in return.
LaMar, returning home Thursday from the general managers meetings in Arizona, said of Martinez, "We'd like him to be a Devil Ray'' but declined to say how quickly that can happen.
Manager Lou Piniella added, "If it does happen, Tino will be very excited and we will be too.''
CURSE OF THE TINO - So it looks like Tino will be joining the Purple-and-Teal after all. Good riddance. Although unfortunately the trade market has soured on the guy as much as the Cardinals have. Looks like the Cards will still be paying between $6 million and $7 million of his $7.5 million salary while receiving only a minor-league position player in return. Let's hope it's a good one (I suppose Delmon Young is out of the question... just asking).
Tino Tracking
