Giants vs. Diamondbacks for Mike Leake?

NASHVILLE - A simple solution to solidify the Giants’ rotation is re-signing Mike Leake, aka “Mikey.”

Clearly,” general manager Bobby Evans said Thursday, the final day of the winter meetings, “that’s a good option for us.

[...] yeah, the Diamondbacks are serious about taking down the Giants and Dodgers in the National League West.

Asked if Arizona could afford Leake after signing Greinke and trading for Miller, Stewart commended managing partner Ken Kendrick and CEO Derrick Hall for finding creative ways. . . .

[...] with several top free-agent pitchers off the board, Leake figures to be a popular target for several teams.

The Nationals have had on and off interest, and the Giants have stayed in touch throughout the offseason.

Last month, the Giants added eight minor-league pitchers to their 40-man roster to protect them from Thursday’s Rule 5 draft, and the Giants still lost a pitcher in the process:

In the Giants’ minds, Toronto’s interest in Biagini after so many other pitchers were protected showed the strength of their prospects.

On another level, the Giants continue to seek an outfielder, and the free-agent market remains plentiful.

While Evans said no offer was made to Jason Heyward, who might be close to signing with the Cardinals or Cubs, there was buzz linking the Giants to Alex Gordon.