Source: Nats agree to terms with Lo Duca  —  The Washington Nationals have agreed to terms on a one-year contract with free agent catcher Paul Lo Duca, a source with knowledge of the situation said today.  Terms were not immediately available, though Lo Duca was thought to be seeking $5 million.

Brewers designate outfielder Mench  —  Move makes room for Torres on Milwaukee's 40-man roster  —  The Milwaukee Brewers on Monday designated outfielder Kevin Mench for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster for newly acquired reliever Salomon Torres.

Brady's bunch are too much for Steelers  —  That spot might seem overly generous, but here are five reasons why I believe the Patriots will win by more:  —  1. Pittsburgh's defense is overrated.  —  The stats say the Steelers have much the best defense in the NFL (allowing 230.8 yards per game compared …

Ex-Oriole Segui says he experimented with steroids  —  Retired first baseman bought shipments from Mets clubhouse attendant; he declined to talk to Mitchell for report expected to be released later this week  —  When Major League Baseball's Mitchell Report on performance-enhancing drug use is released …

OF Fukudome to decide on MLB or Japan tonight … Free agent outfielder Kosuke Fukudome plans to announce late Monday night U.S. time whether he will play in Japan in 2008 or pursue one of several offers from Major League Baseball clubs, his agent told ESPN.com.

Yankees Find Bullpen Help, Landing Hawkins for a Year  —  The Yankees added a veteran to their young bullpen yesterday, agreeing to terms with the right-hander LaTroy Hawkins on a one-year contract worth about $3.75 million.  Hawkins, who turns 35 this month, will take a physical this week to make the deal official.

Bob Dutton Addresses the BBWAA Inclusion Process  —  Bob Dutton, President of the Baseball Writers Association of America Addresses Process of Credentialing  —  Before I get started, it's important to make mention of the incredible willingness that Bob Dutton, president of the Baseball Writers Association …

Mailbag: What are Bucs' plans for Nady?  —  Beat reporter Jenifer Langosch answers fans' questions … Is it true that the Pirates will non-tender Xavier Nady if they are unable to trade him?  If so, why?  In Nady, the Bucs have a proven outfielder who is coming off a career season.

Mailbag: Will Mets pursue No. 1 starter?  —  Beat reporter Marty Noble answers Mets fans' questions  —  The Mets obviously need a front-line starter.  Acquiring one has been a daunting task thus far.  However, it baffles me that there is little mentioned about shoring up the bullpen.

Sox Purchase Salem  —  After 64 years, the Boston Red Sox are back in Salem.  —  Sort of.  —  Fenway Sports Group, the sports sponsorship company owned by Boston Red Sox principal owner John Henry, reached an agreement with Hardball Capital to purchase the Salem Avalanche.

Red Sox, Tigers command respect  —  LIKE THIS STORY?  —  Baseball's Winter Meetings are behind us, and, believe it or not, pitchers and catchers report in less than two months.  —  Sure, some notable free agents are still available, and blockbuster trades are still yet to be made …

Athletics Top 11 Prospects  —  Four-Star Prospects  —  Three-Star Prospects  —  Two-Star Prospects  —  Just Missing: Sam Demel, RHP; Grant Desme, OF; Gregorio Petit, SS  —  Bats/Throws: L/R  —  Drafted: 1st round, 2003, Marina HS (CA)—Cardinals  —  2007 Stats: .293/.389/.438 at Triple-A (136 G); .347/.429/.639 at MLB (18 G)

Detroit Tigers Top 20 Prospects for 2008  —  All grades are EXTREMELY PRELIMINARY and subject to change.  — Rick Porcello, RHP, Grade B+ (I am hesitant to give out a Grade A- or Grade A without seeing some pro numbers first.  This grade should not be interpreted as a negative comment on Porcello).