Dotel to the Braves? Tribe has short stay as "leader" in bid for KC closer

Yesterday, FOXSports' Ken Rosenthal had the Indians as possibly the lead dog in the chase for Octavio Dotel. (click and scroll down about 2/3 of the way).

Today, on a day when they've apparently already acquired Texas first baseman Mark Teixeira, it appears the Braves are about to land Dotel - according to Rosenthal. The sources quoted by Rosenthal say the Indians, Dodgers and Braves remain in the running, with the Braves likely to get Dotel.

The Kansas City Star is also reporting a Braves-Royals deal is near involving Dotel.

Dotel would be great, but the Tribe's disappointment could be greatly reduced if another rumor comes true.

MLB.com's Jim Molony is reporting the Indians may have their sites set on Troy Percival, now pitching at the back end of St. Louis' bullpen. (click and scroll down about half way).

Eric Gagne has not gone anwhere yet, and the Indians are mentioned when his name comes up, as is the case with nearly every team looking for relief help, although the Yankees interest is said to be exaggerated by the media and the Tigers' interest is said to have waned.

As far as the Teixeira deal goes, it's mostly good news for the Tribe as it keeps the slugging first baseman out of the clutches of the Evil Empire. But it also takes Ron Mahey, a second-tier bullpen candidate off the market.

There are also reports that a deal has been completed to send Luis Castillo from Minnesota to the Mets. The move would weaken the Twins short-term and indicate they have decided this is not their year and that they might move some other players in the next 19 hours.