Andrew Friedman has often said bullpens are "volatile."

The Rays have been able to successfully tweak its stock of relievers each of the past several seasons.

Tampa Bay had a Major League-best 2.88 bullpen ERA in 2012, something that will be hard to repeat.

"So many things have to go exactly right," Jim Hickey said. "If I told you right now, [Fernando] Rodney was going to save 43 out of 49 games and have a 1.89 ERA, and that would be almost a disappointment compared to last year. They really did set the bar high.

"But I expect them to be very good, I expect them to be playoff-caliber good, and if we get into the playoffs, to take us all the way."

Friedman said they're still looking for one or two relievers, and he has a track record of acquiring quality arms for the bullpen.

Trade talks between the Phillies and Cubs are reportedly heating up as the two teams continue to discuss Alfonso Soriano.

Philadelphia is in the market for a corner infielder with some power. Soriano matches that profile almost perfectly hitting over 30 HR last season and committing only 1 error in 151 games.

Jim Bowden reported that the Cubs and Phillies had a deal tabled for Soriano on Friday night.

The Red Sox and Diamondbacks are unlikely trade partners when it comes to Justin Upton.

Upton is a fit for Boston, but they are unlikely to part with prospects Xander Bogaerts and Jackie Bradley, Jr.

The Marlins will listen to offers for Giancarlo Stanton, according to assistant general manager Dan Jennings.

However, Miami is not shopping Stanton and they are not looking to move him.

The Mets had some interest in acquiring Coco Crisp from the Athletics earlier this offseason.

However, the sense is that Oakland will keep Crisp.

There is still no real evidence that the Dodgers are shopping Andre Ethier this offseason.

However, if he is available the Mariners are one team that will certainly show interest.

The Red Sox are still looking to finalize their first base situation as the offseason progresses.

Boston is trying to finalize their contract agreement with Mike Napoli, while also speaking to Adam LaRoche.

Assistant GM Brian O'Halloran confirmed first base remains "an area of focus" for the club during an appearance on WEEI's Red Sox Hot Stove Show on Thursday.

"I’m not going to be able to address any specific free agents," said O'Halloran. "I will say that [GM Ben Cherington] has been in touch with a number of free agents. First base ... is an area of focus. Not the only area of focus -- we're looking to strengthen our club any way we can. That process never ends. But Ben has certainly been in touch with a number of free agents, ongoing conversations, over the last few weeks."

The Mets are looking for relief help, according to a report by Jon Heyman of CBS Sports.

Frank Francisco, the incumbent closer, had minor elbow surgery earlier this month, but he is expected to be ready in time for Spring Training.

After making several moves this offseason, the Red Sox have a number of tradeable pieces.

They have a surplus of catchers and Alfredo Aceves, who can start or relieve, is a chip as well.

Jon Daniels says the Rangers remain in the market for another bat and that they are always looking for pitching.

Texas lost both Josh Hamilton and Mike Napoli in free agency, leaving holes in the lineup and especially in the power department.

"We're looking at that now," Daniels said of power hitters. "There's a decent chance we'll look to add somebody."