Theo Epstein talks decision to join Cubs, Carl Crawford, compensation and all things Red Sox collapse  —  Theo Epstein called the Red Sox situation “completely repairable.”  —  The Cubs president also said regarding Manny Ramirez, “I don't think it's a good fit for us.”

Brewers avoid arbitration with Parra  —  After missing 2011 season, lefty agrees to one-year deal  —  MILWAUKEE — The Brewers and left-hander Manny Parra struck an agreement on a one-year contract Thursday, avoiding arbitration.  —  Parra did not pitch in the Major Leagues in 2011 …

Nationals still pursuing Prince Fielder, met today with agent Scott Boras  —  Despite a report on the team's official Web site today playing down the Nationals' chances at signing free agent first baseman Prince Fielder, a person familiar with the situation said the Nationals are …

Selig's contract extension approved by owners  —  PARADISE VALLEY, Ariz. — A two-year contract extension for Commissioner Bud Selig was approved on Wednesday by Major League Baseball's executive council, setting up Thursday's confirmation vote by the full ownership.

Hey, While We're At It, Can We Kick Mickey Mantle Out Of Cooperstown?  —  MLB.com's Terence Moore is already giving us a preview of his 2013 ballot ... and beyond.  For 2013, Moore is absolutely not going to vote for Barry Bonds or Roger Clemens, and is willing to consider Curt Schilling …

Twins Sign Venezuelan Righthander Mauricio Silva  —  The Twins have signed 16-year-old Venezuelan righthander Mauricio Silva for $370,000.  —  Silva is 6-foot-2, 190 pounds and was considered one of the more promising Latin American pitching prospects among players who became eligible to sign on July 2 …

Hopeful Mets see Johan's tank as half-full  —  Left-hander sets sights on healthy return in Spring Training  —  NEW YORK — Relinquishing his air-conditioned quarters in favor of a sweltering September afternoon, Mets manager Terry Collins trudged down to Sun Life Stadium's visitors' bullpen in Miami, eager for the spectacle to begin.

Manny Ramirez: I'll be a role model … Early last season, Manny Ramirez abruptly retired from baseball after a second violation of baseball's performance-enhancing drug rules, choosing to walk away from the game rather than serve a 100-game suspension.  —  Now, Ramirez wants to land a tryout …

West teams young and powerful on mound  —  Stockpiles of pitching exist from top to bottom in both divisions  —  If the most sincere form of flattery is immitation, franchises out West are falling all over themselves in praise of San Francisco's Giants.  —  All across the nine-team landscape …

Maddon contract talks progressing  —  There has been progress in the talks between the Rays and manager Joe Maddon on a contract extension.  —  Maddon's current contract expires as the end of this coming season.  Both sides have expressed strong public interest in continuing the successful relationship.

Vogelsong, Giants agree to 2-year, $8.3M deal  —  SAN FRANCISCO — Ryan Vogelsong and the San Francisco Giants have agreed to a two-year contract worth approximately $8.3 million after he became one of the team's most reliable starters and an unlikely All-Star last season.

Source: Cubs, Kerry Wood close to deal  —  The Chicago Cubs and pitcher Kerry Wood are close on a one-year deal with an option for 2013, according to a source familiar with the situation.  —  Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein was hopeful on Wednesday that the team would re-sign Wood …