The Mets, Dodgers and Twins are among teams to have inquired about Rangers star shortstop Michael Young. Although, the Rangers don't seem anxious to trade him and there isn't any evidence talks ever got serious.

Plus, Young has a no-trade clause through 2009 in his contract, which could diminish his chances to be dealt even more. The contract calls for Young to be paid $80 million in total, or $16 million a year through 2013.

The Dodgers presumably were looking into Young as a long-shot candidate in case Rafael Furcal went elsewhere (and as of yesterday it appeared likely Furcal would wind up back with the Braves, though the Dodgers were still talking to Furcal's agent). However, the price would seem to be high for the Dodgers, who offered just more than half that figure, $45 million, to Manny Ramirez, who helped carry them to the playoffs after he came over from Boston last summer.

The Mets were investigating Young to play second base in case they could find a taker for Luis Castillo, which is an extreme long shot. The Mets also wouldn't be anxious to take on that sort of salary, especially for someone who doesn't pitch.

As for the Twins, there's considerable question as to whether Young would approve a trade to Minnesota.