Hot Stove!

The Phillies signed backup C and former Met Brian Schneider to a 1-year deal for $800,000. He batted .176 with 2 homers and 9 RBIs in 41 games and worked well with the pitching staff.

I like this deal, it benefits the Phillies by giving them a quality backup catcher at low cost and they are both familiar with each other.

The Chicago Cubs today announced the hiring of Dale Sveum as manager for 2012. He spent last season as the Brewers' hitting coach.

The owners of the Houston Astros have completed the sale of the team and 2012 will be their last season in the National League before moving to the American League for realignment in 2013.

The Padres signed OF Mark Kotsay to a 1-year, $1.25 million deal. He played with the previously from 2001-2003, and hit .270 with 3 homers and 31 RBIs in 2011.

Nationals C Wilson Ramos has been safely returned home to his family after his kidnapping.

SS Jamey Carroll signed a 2-year, $6.5 million deal with the Twins. The 38-year-old hit .290 with no homers in 2011.

And the Los Angeles Dodgers have signed OF Matt Kemp to an 8-year, $160 million contract.