A’s still interested in Rafael Furcal

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LAS VEGAS --The Dodgers have reopened talks with Rafael Furcal, but the Oakland A’s haven’t given up on signing him.

Furcal last week rejected a four-year offer from the A’s that reportedly offered between $9 million and $10 million per season. Furcal is looking for $13 million per season. But the A’s remain interested because they would like to sign a premier defensive shortstop for a few years to protect a young pitching staff.

The A’s are not enthused about Orlando Cabrera because they would have to surrender a premium draft pick to the White Sox in return. The White Sox offered arbitration to Cabrera; the Dodgers did not offer arbitration to Furcal and would not get a draft pick if he signs elsewhere.

The Blue Jays also appear interested in Furcal.

-- Bill Shaikin