The Cincinnati Reds, moving toward the first big acquisition of the Dusty Baker era, are in serious talks with free-agent closer Francisco Cordero, major-league sources say. Cordero is still talking to three clubs, but it is believed that the Reds have emerged as the front-runner over the Brewers and an unidentified third team.
Cordero, 32, would fill a major void for the Reds, who last season converted only 54.8 percent of their save opportunities, the lowest percentage in the National League.
By signing Cordero, the Reds could shift right-hander David Weathers back to a setup role. Weathers, 38, performed admirably as a fill-in closer last season, converting 33 of 39 save chances.
Cordero was 44-for-51 for the Brewers while going 0-4 with a 2.98 ERA and striking out 86 in 63 1/3 innings. He made the All-Star team for the second time in his career.