MIAMI -- Pudge Rodriguez said in January that a team signing him would "hit the lotto."
Two months later, he's still unsigned, even after he went 6-for-11 with two home runs for Puerto Rico in the first round of the World Baseball Classic.
"First of all, my focus has been on the Puerto Rico team, and trying to help Puerto Rico win the Classic," he said Friday. "But this is very important for my future. General managers and even owners, I'm sure, are watching."
Rodriguez said that he's "shocked" and "surprised" that he hasn't been able to land a contract yet, but he did say that guaranteed playing time remains an issue.
"To be honest, I'm in tremendous shape and I still believe I can play on an everyday basis," the 37-year-old catcher said. "I'm telling you, I'm ready to play everyday."
Where will that be?
"You'll see soon," Rodriguez predicted.
While Rodriguez wouldn't mention which teams he's talking to, the Giants and Twins are believed to have some interest. While neither team has a need for an everyday catcher, both could use an offensive boost. The Astros so far haven't shown interest, even though their catchers are having a brutal spring.
