NEWBERG REPORT PLUS — NOVEMBER 9, 2006

According to T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com, Don Wakamatsu has agreed to remain with the Rangers and will serve as third base coach on new manager Ron Washington’s staff. Terrific news.

Texas, Sullivan writes, is also expected to hire Gary Pettis as first base coach and baserunning and outfield instructor, rounding out Washington’s staff.

Sullivan also notes that Buck Showalter is expected to join the Cleveland Indians as a special assistant to GM Mark Shapiro.

There have been no developments yet with regard to which club’s bid was presented yesterday to the Seibu Lions for the rights to negotiate with righthander Daisuke Matsuzaka. Seibu has until Tuesday to accept the bid, but there are reports that the club will have a board meeting on Friday, which could be in the next few hours, and an announcement could be made shortly thereafter.

Updates as they become available.

You can read more from Jamey Newberg at www.NewbergReport.com.