Report: White Sox Claim Kubel; Deal Unlikely
(CBS) The White Sox have claimed Twins outfielder/designated hitter Jason Kubel, according to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal.
The Twins and the White Sox have until Noon CT Friday to work out a deal, but it appears unlikely. Kubel is still eligible for arbitration and the sides have discussed a contract extension.
Meanwhile, Twins designated hitter Jim Thome, who the Sox were also rumored to be interested in, has been claimed by the Indians, according to the report. A deal for Thome appears more likely, but he has a no-trade clause and apparently prefers going to the Phillies. If the Twins were to put Thome on release waivers, he would have the power to reject all claims besides Philadelphia, but such a move would be viewed harshly among other MLB clubs. Thome would also have to forfeit the rest of his salary and the Twins would receive nothing from the Phillies in return.
