Weekend Digest: Shields joins Padres; Marlins to host 2017 All-Star Game; more Wrigley drama

James Shields joins Padres on four-year deal

Shields comes to the NL on a four-year deal worth $75 million with an option for a fifth year; he can also opt out of the contract after two years. Even though this is a more conservative deal than those given to Lester and Scherzer, this seems a bit high to me, especially for a pitcher with a 3.61 xFIP, but he should fit in nicely in that cavernous ballpark with Cashner, Ross, and Kennedy already cemented in the rotation. Plus, he gets to play close to his home in Rancho Santa Fe, which is about 30 minutes from Petco Park.

Marlins to host 2017 All-Star Game

The Marlins will be hosting the All-Star Game for the first time since debuting in 1993. 2017 will also mark the third straight year a National League team will host the event, this coming after last week's news of commissioner Rob Manfred considering a bidding system for future All-Star games.

During the Home Run Derby, I hope someone kills that gaudy monstrosity in the outfield.

Wrigley rooftop owners want restraining order

After filing a lawsuit last month against the team, rooftop owners are now seeking a temporary restraining order against the Cubs constructing a video scoreboard in right field. The Cubs are already behind schedule in the installation of new bleachers, and this would hamper it even more. In my opinion, these rooftop owners have no business telling the Cubs what they can and can't build on their own property.

Holland, Chapman avoid arbitration

Aroldis Chapman was asking for $8.7 million, but he and the Reds settled for $8.05 million. Greg Holland and the Royals settled on $8.25 million for 2015. Josh Donaldson wanted $5.725 million from the Blue Jays, but instead will get $4.3 million.

Look who's still playing baseball!

Our favorite old-timer keeps on truckin'. Julio Franco, at 56 years, has agreed to be a player-manager for a semi-pro team in Japan.

Indy ball Ishikawa Million Stars have reached agreement with Julio Franco. He'll serve as player-manager. https://t.co/WYPTbpNOa7

— Kazuto Yamazaki (@Kazuto_Yamazaki) February 8, 2015

Well wishes to Julio! I hope he has lots of success there.