The New York Mets announced today that they have signed free agent outfielder Moises Alou to a one-year, $7.5 million contract with a club option for 2008.

Alou, 40, hit .301 (104-345) with 52 runs scored, 25 doubles, one triple, 22 home runs and 74 RBI in 98 games for the San Francisco Giants last season. In addition, the 6-3, 225-pound righthanded batter had a .352 on-base percentage and a .571 slugging mark, while reaching the 20-home run plateau for the ninth time in his career.

“Moises Alou is one of the game’s top hitters,” said Mets General Manager Omar Minaya. “He’ll add a valuable righthanded bat to our line-up.”

The Florida Marlins today announced they have acquired right-handed pitchers Matt Lindstrom and Henry Owens from the New York Mets in exchange for left-handed pitchers Adam Bostick and Jason Vargas. The announcement was made by Marlins Executive Vice President and General Manager Larry Beinfest.

The Alfonso Soriano deal is complete!

The Chicago Cubs today announced that the club has agreed to an eight-year deal with five-time All-Star Alfonso Soriano.

A press conference will be held today at 4:00 CST. We'll have details after the press conference.

**Update**
Jim Hendry would not commit to Soriano playing CF. He did say that he will play the outfield, and whatever position he plays, he will stay there all season.

Hendry also emphasized that this by no means ends the Cubs free agent search. They will be looking to strengthen their pitching and add a few role players...possibly a left-handed bat.

Jim confirmed that the Cubs and Juan Pierre have essentially parted ways.

Cincinnati Reds general manager Wayne Krivsky today announced that veteran LHP Mike Stanton has agreed to terms on a 2-year contract through the 2008 season with a club option for 2009.

Krivsky also officially announced that veteran SS Alex Gonzalez has agreed to terms on a 3-year contract through the 2009 season with a mutual option for 2010.

Philadelphia's Ryan Howard, who led the National League with 58 home runs and 149 runs batted in, was named the league's most valuable player Monday.

Nomar Garciaparra is staying with the Los Angeles Dodgers, agreeing to a two-year contract. The deal will be formally announced Monday, Dodgers spokesman Joe Jareck said Sunday.

Nomar's contract with the Dodgers is for $18.5 million over two years.