Contrary to a radio report, the Mets are not close to signing free-agent catcher Bengie Molina, a source told the New York Daily News. A recent report said that the team was close to a two-year deal with Molina, who spent recent seasons with the Giants. "Not true," the official said.

The Cardinals and free-agent outfielder Matt Holliday are believed to be getting closer to an agreement that could be the largest offer the franchise has even made. That means it would surpass the $100 million deal first baseman Albert Pujols signed in 2004. Sources with knowledge of the negotiations told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that progress is "strong" and a resolution could come as early as next week. "I'm still hopeful," general manager John Mozeliak wrote in a text message. "But there is still work to be done."

The Rockies could cut ties with catcher Yorvit Torrealba. Colorado is working out a deal with free-agent Miguel Olivo, according to multiple sources. Torrealba was close to re-signing a few weeks ago, but the two sides couldn't agree on how money would be distributed in a rumored two-year, $6 million contract.

The Red Sox officially lost left fielder Jason Bay on Monday when he signed a four-year, $66 million deal with the Mets. Boston infielder Kevin Youkilis commented on the signing Tuesday. "It's definitely going to be tough for all of us," Youkilis said. "Jason was a close friend. We enjoyed playing with him. He's a great ballplayer. It's one of those business moves on each side, the Red Sox and Jason. It just didn't work out right. I wish him the best in New York and hopefully we get to see him in the World Series." The Boston Herald is reporting that the Red Sox had discussions with Bay right up until he agreed to join the Mets.

The Dodgers desperately need help in their starting rotation and free-agent pitcher Joel Pineiro interests them. According to Buster Olney, the Mets and Angels are also interested in the right-hander.

Buster Olney of ESPN The Magazine is writing that the Padres have had preliminary talks with first baseman Adrian Gonzalez about a contract extension. Gonzalez has two more years on his contract, but Olney adds that it's unlikely that they'll come to an agreement past the 2011 season because of his potential market value.

The Rockies are interested in agreeing to a deal with free-agent catcher Miguel Olivo. Colorado began focusing on Olivo when talks stalled with Yorvit Torrealba. The Rockies are committed to giving Chris Iannetta a full chance to become the everyday catcher, but they want a proven backup.

Free agent outfielder Matt Holliday is looking for more than $18 million annually, according to major league sources. Holliday was offered a four-year, $72 million deal by the Rockies during the 2008 season. Reports on Tuesday indicated that the Cardinals had made a proposal that could reach $140 million over eight years, which would be $17.5 million annually.

The Athletics are among the teams interested in free-agent third baseman Adrian Beltre. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the Giants are looking at Beltre as well. The Red Sox are another club that has been linked to the free agent recently.

The Mets are reportedly close to a two-year deal with free-agent catcher Bengie Molina. According to 1050 ESPN Radio, the deal is imminent. WFAN's Mike Francesa said Tuesday that Molina is still seeking a three-year contract.