SEC targets Marlins' shady business  —  For two decades now, Major League Baseball has funded its rise from corporate slacker to gilded cash cow on the backs of taxpayers bullied into building new stadiums.  It's a marvel the government took so long to sniff out the rot that emanates from these deals …

Marlins say federal probe of Miami ballpark will not affect roster plans at winter meetings  —  Intriguing story last night in the Miami Herald about the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission subpoenaing records from Miami-Dade County and Miami over the deal to build a new ballpark for the Marlins.

Marlins pursuit of Buehrle hits snag  —  The biggest obstacle to Mark Buehrle joining the Marlins is the team's reluctance to give him a no-trade clause, according to major-league sources.  —  The Marlins are targeting a left-handed starter on a free-agent market, and the holdup in their talks …

Valentine on his way to recruit Ortiz  —  CAP CANA, Dominican Republic — Bobby Valentine is wasting no time trying to improve the Red Sox.  —  Installed as manager yesterday, Valentine is on his way to the Dominican Republic now to meet with David Ortiz and participate in his charity golf event tomorrow.

Angels, Blue Jays Swap Jeff Mathis For Brad Mills  —  The Angels have acquired left-hander Brad Mills from the Blue Jays for Jeff Mathis, reports Mike DiGiovanna of The Los Angeles Times (on Twitter).  Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports first reported that the two sides were on the verge of a deal (all Twitter links).