Jocketty: Ludwick talks continuing amid quiet scene
Activity at Meetings slowing, Reds could have free-agent infielder Hannahan on radar
"We had a conversation with his agent today. And I spoke with Ludwick," general manager Walt Jocketty said. "We're still a little ways apart. I hope we get something resolved."
Jocketty has not set a deadline on ending talks to speed up negotiations.
"We're going to figure it out one way or another in the next couple of days," Jocketty said. "I think he wants to get it resolved too."
Before any deal with Ludwick could be completed, the 34-year-old would have to take a physical.
If the Reds were to sign Ludwick quickly, they could have something to reveal this weekend during Redsfest, when much of the team is in town.
"That would be nice," Jocketty said.
As far as other developments, there have been precious few regarding the Reds. There were talks held with the representative for free-agent infielder Jack Hannahan. The Reds are believed to be one of multiple clubs looking at Hannahan, who could fill a utility role for them.
A veteran of four clubs over his six seasons, Hannahan batted .244 with four home runs and 29 RBIs in 105 games for the Indians. He's a left-handed hitter and has most of his experience at third base.
As for Cincinnati's top priority of landing a leadoff hitter, nothing has been fruitful.
"That's been less productive the last 48 hours," Jocketty said.
There was some hallway speculation again that the Reds and Rockies were discussing a deal for leadoff hitter and center fielder Dexter Fowler. That was shot down by the Reds, however. Colorado continues to be interested in acquiring Major League ready starting pitching.
With last week's signing of Jonathan Broxton, and the Reds expecting to move Aroldis Chapman from closer to a starter, it would seem that fifth starter Mike Leake is a logical trade chip.
Leake still seems to be in the club's plans, though, and there are currently no thoughts of converting him to a reliever. Jocketty spoke to Leake's agent this week and pitching coach Bryan Price has spoken to Leake.
"He'll still probably be a starter for now," Jocketty said. "It's something we'll determine in Spring Training and see how it shakes out."
Jocketty wished there was more going on in Nashville. He even left the suite to visit the baseball trade show in the hotel for the first time in years because things had gotten so quiet.
"The last two days have been really slow," Jocketty said. "I talked to some other clubs, too. They're saying the same thing. There was a lot of optimism and a lot of momentum when we first got here. It has really slowed down. I'm not sure why. This place is so big, you never see anybody."