Shawn

Estes

Estes was last seen in June of 2009 being released from his minor-league obligation with the Dodgers. He posted a 3.07 ERA in 13 starts and could make up to $1 million if he makes the major league roster. He might surprise many and open the year in the Nationals rotation.

An AL source expects Estes to be claimed by Minnesota, Texas or San Francisco. The Rockies would pull him back and try to negotiate a deal for a prospect. Jeff Fassero and Charles Johnson have already cleared waivers, while Jeromy Burnitz and Royce Clayton are candidates to be placed on waivers to gauge trade interest.

Estes wasn’t offered arbitration by the Rockies, so he won’t cost a draft pick. The Blue Jays and Rangers are expected to make proposals. If Estes gets a multiyear contract, then we’ll know for sure that the market is out of whack.

Arizona needs quantity along with quality if it really hopes to contend next season. At the moment, the only lock for the team’s rotation is Brandon Webb. A Randy Johnson deal would bring at least one starter in return, so adding Russ Ortiz and Estes would leave just one spot open. Casey Fossum would head into spring training as the favorite for the job.

Estes is also receiving interest from Arizona and Texas. Downs would get only a minor league deal.

The Padres are supposed to be out of it now, and if the Nationals are in it, then Jim Bowden hasn’t been very honest about his intentions. It’s likely that Estes will sign with Arizona.

Houston, San Diego and Washington could be alternatives.

Estes threw for about 10 minutes and reported no problems. ''A little ginger on the first couple of tosses, but everything went fine and we’re on schedule for him,’' manager Bob Melvin said. ''As of right now, we’re fine with where he is if we don’t have any setbacks.’'

As far as we know, the Diamondbacks aren’t yet considering voiding his contract.

Juan Cruz is expected to be chosen over Estes.