With pitchers and catchers reporting in less than a month, the Reds are popping up in the rumor mill regarding a handful of the remaining free-agents:

JOHNNY DAMON – After the Yankees have said no thanks to Damon (at least at his current asking price), agent Scott Boras told ESPN.com that he is trying to engage the Tigers and Reds in his client. However, it is highly unlikely either team has the money in their budget to interest the veteran outfielder.

ORLANDO CABRERA – Reds’ GM Walt Jocketty confirmed that the club has considered making a run at Cabrera.  The move makes great sense if the Reds can get him on a 1-year deal at their price. The longer he remains a free agent the better the chances get. Still, Reds’ beat writer John Fay doesn’t see it happening due to budget constraints.

NOAH LOWRY – The Reds are amongst a reported 15 teams expected to have scouts at a throwing session to watch the 29-year old lefthander on Tuesday. Lowry has battled outlet syndrome the last few years and hasn’t made much of an impact the past few seasons for the Giants.

JONNY GOMES – The Reds non-tendered Gomes rather than giving him a raise or facing arbitration. He remains on the market, but after hitting 20 homeruns last season in limited action in Cincinnati, don’t expect him to stay there long. The team does not appear to be in the mix to bring him back.

MIGUEL CAIRO – The team already did make a move to sign the 36-year old utility man to a minor league deal on Wednesday. He has played for eight different MLB teams and spent most of 2008 playing for the Phillies’ AAA club where he hit .287/.325/.392.

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