Jason Giambi announces retirement, thanks family and baseball friends  —  The former Yankee told the Daily News Monday that he is retiring after a 20-year major-league career.  Here's Giambi's statement in his own words. … “After 20 seasons, I have decided to officially announce my retirement as a Major League Baseball player.

The FanGraphs Top 200 Prospect List  —  Yesterday, we gave you a little bit of a tease, giving you a glimpse into the making of FanGraphs Top 200 Prospect List.  This morning, however, we present the list in its entirety, including scouting grades and reports for every prospect rated …

Moncada, Olivera, Ibanez and Alvarez headline top available talent from island  —  Jesse Sanchez joins Hot Stove to discuss potential landing spots for Yoan Moncada, when the Cuban slugger might sign and the Caribbean WS  —  There are approximately 75 Cuban players pursuing a contract …

Glendale-Salt River to use 20-second timer in game streamed live on MLB.com  —  10/14/14: Mark Appel is issued his second pitch violation of the game at the beginning of the 3rd, resulting in an automatic 1-0 count  —  The 20-second pitch clock Major League Baseball is experimenting with during …

AP Sources: Barry Zito Returning to A's on Minor League Deal  —  OAKLAND, Calif. — Left-hander Barry Zito is returning to the Oakland Athletics with a minor contract that includes an invitation to major league spring training, two people with knowledge of the agreement said Tuesday.

1996 Jeffrey Maier Fielder's Glove Used to Catch Derek Jeter ALCS Game One Home Run....  The spark that started the modern Yankee dynasty!  —  1996 Jeffrey Maier Fielder's Glove Used to Catch Derek Jeter ALCS Game One Home Run.  As the departing Yankees captain made his final appearance …

Notes: Thome shows familiar power  —  TUCSON, Ariz. — Jim Thome produced a very economical showing of power during the White Sox 9-7 victory over the Royals on Sunday at Tucson Electric Park.  —  Kansas City starter Kyle Snyder threw one pitch to Thome in the first inning, and he proceeded to launch a mammoth two-run shot to right.

Indians To Sign Bruce Chen To Minors Deal  —  The Indians have agreed to a minor league pact with veteran southpaw Bruce Chen, Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com reports on Twitter.  Chen can earn a $1MM salary if he makes the club, and can also achieve up to $1MM in incentives.

Chargers' Remarks to Mayor's Stadium Task Force  —  Special counsel to the President of the San Diego Chargers, Mark Fabiani, has issued detailed remarks and suggestions for the Mayor's newly appointed Stadium Task Force.  Below is a summarized version, to read the extended version click here.

Angels' Richards ‘looked good’ in first bullpen session since knee surgery  —  Garrett Richards threw 20 pitches Monday in his first bullpen session since last year's knee surgery.  —  Pitching coach Mike Butcher, who supervised the workout at the Angels' complex in Tempe, Ariz., said by text that Richards “looked good, felt good.”