In a further sign Francisco Rodriguez's grievance and criminal charges may be nearing settlements, the Venezuelan publication El Universal quoted a source close to the closer as suggesting he plans to participate in winter ball for Tiburones de La Guaira in early November.

K-Rod underwent surgery on a torn right thumb ligament in mid-August after appearing in one game following an altercation with his girlfriend's father at Citi Field. So Rodriguez's ability to pitch in winter ball that soon may be considered a positive development.

A grievance hearing had been scheduled for Monday and Tuesday in New York concerning the Mets' conversion of Rodriguez's contract to unguaranteed and the nonpayment of $3 million in 2010 salary. However, the hearing before arbitrator Shyam Das has been put off with the sides close to a monetary settlement that still should cost K-Rod significantly in terms of dollars.