Jays interested in Berkman?

[RINSE]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/7314078.html

After being rejected by the 'Stros:

The Astros are turning their lineup over to younger players in 2011, and every at-bat they give Berkman, 34, would be taking one from Brett Wallace, Jack Shuck or Brian Bogusevic.
"After initially being pretty disappointed, I've gotten over it," he said. "Now my focus is on who is going to contend that wants me to play for them. There's been a lot of interest — Cardinals, Cubs, Rockies, A's, Pirates, Blue Jays, a bunch of teams. I haven't had a single offer in terms of X amount of dollars, but I think this is the time of the year when there's a lot of tire-kicking."

[luvtheteam]

Interesting option. I did some looking around on the net. His numbers have been consistently good over the years until last year. He blames it on the Arthoscopic surgery he had which effected his ability to push off at the plate. Sounds reasonable, but will he be back to normal next year?

He says yes, and feels his numbers can return....but who knows. Could be another one of those high reward signings but it's a gamble. I don't think you give him more than one year though, and ideally a low salary with incentives. JMO.

[LBJSeizedMyID]

Wouldn't mind the signing if it's a one year incentive laden deal with a dual option. Realistically there are a lot of first base options in the same tier, so think the Jays can afford to drive the negotiations.

[trellaine201]

He looks out of shape to me. I have no idea how he thinks he can still play the field. 1B/DH at best. He looks tubby now. Not like he was a few yrs ago.

But I would take anyone at 1B other than Lind.

[DonYon]

I know he has a reputation as a dangerous bat, but never really payed attention to his defense when watching him play. how is he in that aspect?

[zilby]

Pass.

Out of shape strikeout machine who can't play 1B competently.

[LBJSeizedMyID]

As opposed to Manny who isn't? I'm just playing devil's advocate here, but Manny's numbers were on par with Berkman if you're taking into account last year only.

[CapeCrusader]

Depends how much.

[Ong_dynasty]

If he is a competent First Baseman.
Might be worth a look so Lind does not have to play that position.

But I prefer manny (just because he wants to be here and is still probably the better player)

[Blade_Runner]

Sign him if he brings intangibles and there's a ton of incentives...and you can flip someone else.