M's won't sign Jason Bay. His defense isn't good enough for the vast expanses of Safeco and the length of contract he would require would stagnate developing players from getting to the big leagues via left field.

From Fox Sports Winter Meeting Blog:

Byrd, Cameron on similar paths? — 12:00 p.m.
The markets for free agents Marlon Byrd and Mike Cameron continue running parallel to one another.

One major league source pointed out Wednesday morning that many of the same teams are interested in both players: The Braves, Angels, Cubs, Yankees, Mariners, Mets and Giants have checked on each of them.

Byrd and Cameron entered the marketplace as center fielders but have drawn interest from teams seeking help in the corners, the source said.

Byrd, 32, has the advantage of being younger than Cameron, who will play at 37 next year.

The Cardinals also view Byrd as one fallback option if they fail to re-sign left fielder Matt Holliday.

The Mariners, meanwhile, believe Cameron would be an ideal fit for the expansive left field at Safeco Field, but he hasn't played anywhere other than center since the 2005 season. -- Jon Paul Morosi