MLB exec: 'A lot of teams jumping back in' for James Shields

James Shields remains unemployed with only four weeks to go before spring training opens, but one MLB executive recently suggested that numerous teams have renewed interest in the right-hander, whose market dried up over the last few weeks.

"What I see now is a lot of teams jumping back in," the exec told ESPN's Jayson Stark. "But part of the reason is, they're saying, 'We know now he's not getting $110 million, so why not jump back in?' But the problem is, now everyone is bottom-feeding. And when you're someone like him, that's the last thing you want, is a lot of teams bottom-feeding on you in late January."

Shields entered free agency with designs on landing a contract worth upwards of $100 million, but it appears increasingly likely the 33-year-old will receive less than that. 

"I can't imagine he gets less than $80 million over four [years]," said one exec. "There's someone out there. You know that. I just have no idea who that is."

Despite an unassailable track record of both durability and effectiveness, the massive volume of innings Shields has accumulated in recent years could be a concern to prospective suitors. His strikeout rate has also declined in successive seasons and the 3.59 FIP he posted with the Kansas City Royals in 2014 was his worst mark since 2010.