Mixed Messages

A couple of articles on ESPN on Wednesday illustrated both ends of the spectrum of the current state of the Dodgers. On one hand, there is a sense of optimism coming from both Dave Stewart (the agent for Matt Kemp) and general manager Ned Colletti that a contract extension for Kemp could happen soon. From Tony Jackson:

"I don't think that it's going to be difficult, I really don't," Stewart said. "I think we should be able to come to something. I have talked with Ned on a few occasions. We have covered some ground, and hopefully, we will be able to put this thing to bed soon."

Colletti also characterized the negotiations as moving forward.

"We have had some constructive conversations," Colletti said. "Those conversations have been a little more substantive of late."

But with the sale of the team still a work in progress, there is another less euphoric report came from Jackson and ESPN Los Angeles:

The Los Angeles Dodgers will not be able to bid on free agents such as Prince Fielder and Albert Pujols until the team is sold, a source close to Dodgers owner Frank McCourt told ESPN.com on Wednesday.

This isn't too much of a surprise, as getting a big ticket free agent this winter was always a bit of a long shot. But it doesn't make it any less palatable as fans. The source here also added the sale process would take four to six months, which further complicates matters. So here we are in limbo, able to see the light at the end of the tunnel but not quite able to smell the fresh air.

Welcome to the 2011-2012 Dodgers hot stove season!