Free agency rolls on, and James Shields is still without a place to pitch in 2015. That might be ending soon however; despite rumors that the Chicago Cubs have entered the fray and are "kicking the tires" on Shields, the San Diego Padres are now in the lead to sign him.
The #Padres, where James Shields makes his home, have to be considered favorites for his services. We will soon find out if they get him.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) February 6, 2015
Earlier this week it was reported that Shields, the highest-profile free agent left on the market, had "several" offers and would be signed by the end of the week. It is now Friday though, and there are still only rumors.
Shields has multiple offers in hand
The fact that Shields is even available at this point in the offseason is a surprise. He was excellent in 2014, going 14-8 with a 3.21 ERA and 1.18 WHIP for the American League Champion Kansas City Royals. It was his eighth consecutive season of 200-plus innings pitched, and fourth in a row with an ERA under 3.52.
Shields' age may be working against him though, as well as his noted postseason struggles. The durability he's shown throughout his career could also be a negative factor as teams are becoming more wary of pitchers' mileage and risk of severe arm injuries.
Shields' price dropping, several teams jump back in on bidding
At the outset of the offseason Shields' reported asking price was five years, $110 million. Subsequent reports indicate that league sources are now expecting him to receive a contract closer to $70-$80 million over four years.
Shields lives in San Diego, and is believed to prefer pitching on the West Coast.
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