Dodgers go one better than Maddux

While Greg Maddux takes however many innings might remain in his 40-year-old arm to San Diego, the Dodgers appear to have a deal with Jason Schmidt for three years at $47 million. He'll be 34 in January and last year posted a nice-looking 11-9, 3.59 for the Giants. Schmidt needs to pass a physical before the contract can be called done, but he is telling friends of his choice and even the Dodgers website covers the deal. Mike Lieberthal also signed as a backup catcher, leaving the Phillies to come home to SoCal. Also, J.D. Drew inked his new contract with the Red Sox for five years and $70 million.