Tim

Hudson

He’s one of 11 new names on the ballot, which also includes (in alphabetical order) A.J. Burnett, Michael Cuddyer, Dan Haren, LaTroy Hawkins, Tim Hudson, Torii Hunter, Aramis Ramírez, Nick Swisher, Shane Victorino and Barry Zito. A number of these players had very good careers, but there’s not a no-doubter in the bunch, which should make for an interesting year in terms of voting. Curt Schilling (who received 70 percent of the vote last year) would appear in strong position to make it in his ninth year on the ballot. Roger Clemens (61.0 percent), Barry Bonds (60.7 percent) and Omar Vizquel (52.6 percent) were the only others to receive votes on at least 50 percent of ballots last year. Players must be on 75 percent of ballots to earn their place in Cooperstown.

The A’s are struggling at a very bad time. The Rangers and the Angels are both only two games back in the West.

He has pitched well against the Angels in his career but his team my be a bit depressed after yesterday’s loss. If the Twins lose yesterday’s suspended game, the Angels will have the home-field advantage in the playoffs and will likely rest many of their regulars.

Both Barry Zito and Mark Mulder are signed through 2006, so the A’s will concentrate on Hudson this winter. He’s the one of the big three that they most want to keep for the long-term.

If Giles isn’t an option, the A’s would probably have to get Jeff Francoeur, Dan Meyer and maybe Juan Cruz or a lesser pitching prospect. Andy Marte, Atlanta’s top prospect, probably isn’t in play since he’s a third baseman.

According to the Baltimore Sun, Orioles officials left the winter meetings believing the Braves were the favorite to land Hudson, with the Dodgers close behind.

“My understanding is [the A’s] still dealing with a lot of teams,” DePodesta said. “They’re exploring their options. They’re not ready to do something yet.” Still, DePodesta did sound optimistic that a deal was possible, adding that he and and Oakland GM Bille Beane know each other so well that they can get something done quickly if it comes to that. “We’ve talked about specific players,” he said. “We’re on the same wavelength in terms of players. I don’t think there’s much mystery on either side.”

We’ve heard this one before. A’s GM Billy Beane wasn’t upset over the statement. “I really don’t have much of a reaction at all,” said Beane. “This kind of thing happens in our business all the time. It’s their prerogative to set a deadline.” The A’s are expected to begin negotiations with Hudson later this winter. If talks don’t go well, they could look to trade him.

“Billy knows my heart is still in Oakland,” Hudson said. “I want to play there, I love my teammates. ... The fans have been great to me. He knows my first choice is to stay in Oakland; the point he made is that what’s best for the future of the organization is what needs to be done.” It’s uncertain whether the A’s are entertaining any serious offers for Hudson. The Braves and Cardinals are among those believed to be interested.

That’s a lot to give up for one year of a pitcher, but the Dodgers likely will be able to work out an extension with Hudson. While Jackson could step into Hudson’s rotation spot, the A’s should make him compete for the job. Last year’s inconsistency hasn’t dimmed his long-term outlook, but he might not be ready to help right away. Perez probably is. He’ll be the favorite to start at second base for Oakland, though Mark Ellis’s presence will make him a risky pick in fantasy leagues.