Free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal told El Caribe that he would return from his native Dominican Republic to the United States on Monday to sign a contract. From what he said, Dylan Hernandez of the Los Angeles Times believes that deal could be with the Athletics. Furcal revealed that he has been offered a four-year, $48-million contract by the A's, and that the Mets have contacted him about moving to second base as well. "The offers made by the Athletics and the Mets of New York are tempting, but we'll make a decision after I meet with my lawyer because there are various factors that we have to evaluate," he said. "But my general feeling is that every offer that's been made is important, which is why we want to make a decision that?s well thought out."