UPDATE: Reports have surfaced that the Chicago White Sox are close to a deal to sign Jose Abreu. Read more on HardballTalk.com.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants reportedly won’t be a finalist to sign slugging Cuban first baseman Jose Abreu, who enticed club officials with his power potential but was seen as more of a designated hitter.
No wonder, then, that an MLB.com report listed the Red Sox, White Sox and Astros -- three American League teams -- as the finalists to sign the 6-foot-5, 250-pound power hitter.
The Giants remain in the running for another Cuban defector, 26-year-old infielder Alexander Guerrero, who was reportedly close to a five-year, $32 million deal with the Dodgers in September that fell apart because his representatives weren’t certified. Scott Boras is Guerrero’s agent now.
Giants GM Brian Sabean personally scouted Guerrero in his last trip to the Dominican Republic a little more than two weeks ago. Although Guerrero is seen primarily as a second baseman, Giants officials were confident he could play third base and shortstop as well.
Although the Giants need a left fielder, they also could use infield depth -- particularly at second base, where Marco Scutaro’s defense declined as the 37-year-old struggled with back, hip and finger maladies.
The Dodgers are still among the clubs involved on Guerrero, according to reports.
