Sox: Nixon in '07?  —  Team may offer him arbitration  —  In a decision that would lend further credence to the possibility of Manny Ramírez being traded, the Sox are likely to offer salary arbitration to free agent outfielder Trot Nixon by today's deadline, according to a source with ties to the team.

Rockies sign Gil; pitchers a priority  —  The Rockies signed catcher Geronimo Gil to a minor-league contract Thursday, but their focus remains on those throwing pitches.  They have increased their pursuit of reliever LaTroy Hawkins and are aggressively trying to bridge the financial gap on an extension for Jason Jennings.

A Nemesis of Matsuzaka May Intrigue the Yanks  —  When the Yankees attend the winter meetings next week in Orlando, Fla., there will be an intriguing first baseman for them to meet at the Walt Disney World Dolphin hotel.  —  His name is Julio Zuleta, and he played 79 games for the Chicago Cubs in 2000-1.

Sox ink Podsednik to one-year deal  —  Speedy outfielder avoids arbitration by signing for $2.9 million  —  CHICAGO — The White Sox search for an upgrade at the leadoff slot in their potent lineup appears to have been solved by a familiar face from within their own organization.

Insider: Rangers getting out-shopped this offseason  —  Things keep going like this, the Texas Rangers' 2007 lineup will consist of a cardboard cutout of Nolan Ryan, a Jeff Burroughs bobble-head and a pair of Alex Rodriguez's sweaty old spikes.  Oh, yes, and Michael Young at shortstop.

Mets' odds on Zito improve  —  The waiting continues for Tom Glavine to decide whether he'll pitch for the Mets or Braves in 2007.  The Mets now expect the lefthander to notify them next week, rather than this week, of his intentions, a person familiar with the situation said.

Hendry busy building 2007 roster  —  General manager still looking for starting pitching  —  CHICAGO — Cubs general manager Jim Hendry appears to have both his infield and outfield in good shape.  He'll head to Orlando this weekend and focus on the pitching.

McCarthy not likely to pitch in relief  —  White Sox general manager indicates right-hander will start  —  CHICAGO — The Brandon McCarthy bullpen experiment apparently will not be revisited during the 2007 season, judging by comments White Sox general manager Ken Williams recently made on the topic to MLB.com.

Slim pickins' on trade market for Gillick  —  PHILADELPHIA — Pat Gillick might get a heart-of-the-order bat in a trade, but he might not.  Gillick might find some bullpen help in a deal at next week's winter meetings, or he might come up empty.  These are uncertain times for the Phillies' weathered general manager.

Selig set to retire happy when contract ends in 3 years  —  NEW YORK — Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig says he will be stepping down in three years when his contract ends, content that the sport is in good health.  —  "I plan to retire," Selig, the former Milwaukee Brewers owner, said Thursday.

Bullpen needs could make Bernie odd man out  —  While Bernie Williams is eager for another season in pinstripes, a cloud of uncertainty hovers over his future.  —  General manager Brian Cashman and manager Joe Torre both have spoken with Williams recently, but they have given …

Samson's trek to be featured on NBC  —  Marlins president completed Ironman event in October  —  MIAMI — David Samson broke new ground in late October by becoming the first president of a major professional sports league team to complete the rigorous Ford Ironman competition in Hawaii.