Source: Cuba defector Aroldis Chapman works out for Toronto Blue Jays  —  A surprising bidder has emerged in the Aroldis Chapman sweepstakes.  The Toronto Blue Jays held a private workout for the touted Cuban pitcher Thursday morning in Florida, then met with his representatives, a source close to Chapman told ESPN The Magazine.

Texas looking to fill Byrd's void in lineup  —  Many bargains available on market to fulfill Rangers' wish list  —  ARLINGTON — Outfielder Marlon Byrd is on his way to Chicago, having agreed to a three-year, $15 million contract with the Cubs on Thursday.

What's the matter with Johnny?  —  At the beginning of the offseason, nearly everyone had Johnny Damon pegged for a return to the Bronx.  It's become apparent, however, that the likelihood of his returning to the Yankees is slim to none and slim's as likely as Milton Bradley Day at Wrigley Field.

Shanahan on track to make more than $50 million from Redskins  —  Some league insiders believe that free-agent coach Mike Shanahan would like to get another suitor to the table in order to drive up his leverage with the Redskins.  —  But even if he can't shake any other team out of the bushes …

Nationals have higher hopes for 2010  —  Club upgrades its staff, but has room for improvement … 1. Will the Nationals play at least .500 baseball this season?  —  It's too early to predict because Rizzo is expected to make moves right up until Opening Day.  Rizzo is never satisfied and rightfully so.

Agent: Kemp not thinking long-term deal  —  Dodgers exploring multiyear contract with star outfielder  —  LOS ANGELES — The Dodgers have opened discussions on a multiyear contract with Matt Kemp, but his agent said Kemp might prefer to go year to year.  —  “We've only talked about it a little bit …

Chipper Jones confident of ‘monster’ rebound season  —  Veteran Braves slugger, 38 in April, plans on staying at third base  —  It's a new year, and Braves third baseman Chipper Jones is expecting different results than in 2009.  Just one season after winning the National League batting title …

New York Yankees Top 20 Prospects for 2010  —  More photos » by Frank Franklin II - AP  —  New York Yankees pitcher Phil Hughes, drafted in the first round in 2004.  (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)  —  Browse more photos »  —  Top 20 New York Yankees Prospects for 2010

Inbox: Dissecting the Bay aftermath  —  Beat reporter Marty Noble answers Mets fans' questions  —  I keep hearing experts say that players like Jason Bay won't hit home runs in Citi Field.  Doesn't the fact that visiting players hit 81 homers there last year indicate that the Mets hitters …

Boston Red Sox's Mike Lowell has surgery on right thumb  —  As expected, Boston Red Sox third baseman Mike Lowell underwent surgery on Wednesday to repair a torn radial collateral ligament in his right thumb.  He is expected to be ready for spring training after six to eight weeks of rest and rehabilitation.

Tigers' Laird, brother arrested … PHOENIX (AP) — Detroit Tigers catcher Gerald Laird and his younger brother, New York Yankees infield prospect Brandon Laird, were arrested following a brawl in the lounge area of Phoenix's NBA arena, according to police.  —  Phoenix police said Gerald Laird …