GMs will discuss policies, personnel

NAPLES, Fla. -- General managers were to get down to business today at their annual meeting, with a three-day agenda that includes discussions on instant replay, the elimination of tie games and uniform ball storage rules.

Perhaps most significantly, the Seibu Lions will announce tonight whether they will accept the high bid for pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka. If the Lions take the offer, Major League Baseball will disclose the identity of the club that made the winning bid.

"You monitor everything in the marketplace as it may affect your club," Houston GM Tim Purpura said.

There were two small deals Monday. Colorado agreed to a $1.5 million, one-year contract with second baseman Kaz Matsui. His replacement on the Mets, Jose Valentin, reached a preliminary agreement with New York on a one-year deal worth about $3 million.

All teams could start contract talks Sunday with the 177 free agents. Barry Zito, Jason Schmidt and Jeff Suppan figure to be among the top pitchers, while Alfonso Soriano, Carlos Lee and Barry Bonds are among the most notable position players.

"The group that's out there as free agents, it isn't the most attractive group," Philadelphia GM Pat Gillick said.

As usual, pitching is the most prized possession.

"I think everybody's looking for the same animal," Gillick said.

With all the GMs gathered in one spot, agents for the players also arrived, with Scott Boras, Adam Katz and Sam Levinson among those on hand in the space-age-looking lobby. Even before arriving at the meetings, Yankees GM Brian Cashman sent right fielder Gary Sheffield to Detroit for three pitchers, and Jaret Wright to Baltimore for a reliever.

"Although it looked like we moved fast, those discussions were going on for some time," Cashman said.

In most years, there's usually more talk than action at these sessions. More trades take place at the winter meetings, scheduled this year for Dec. 4 to 7 in Lake Buena Vista.

"You lay the groundwork," Purpura said. "You talk to other GMs. You talk to the agents. You're trying to find out where the fits might be for your club and you work through the process."

Houston appeared to be interested in Lee. The Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels and the Phillies need offense.

New York Mets GM Omar Minaya is seeking a corner outfielder with power, preferably a right-handed hitter. Cashman seeks starting pitching.