The Giants could be ready to announce the signing of speedy center fielder Dave Roberts on Monday, with infielder Rich Aurilia not too far behind.
The Giants are willing to push ahead with signing Roberts to a three-year deal worth about $16-18 million because they expect the Padres would offer him arbitration.
The Giants and Roberts are zeroing in on a three-year contract valued between $5 million and $6 million a season. A source said Roberts is ready to accept the Giants' offer, and he is awaiting final word from the team.
Furthermore, sources said, the Giants are engaged in serious talks with infielder Mark Loretta and well-traveled right-hander David Weathers, who has 41 saves since 1999 and could serve as manager Bruce Bochy's setup man while providing insurance for the ninth inning if Armando Benitez cannot return to form.
According to multiple sources, Roberts was weighing similar three-year offers from the Giants, Rangers and Brewers. As of Friday afternoon, Roberts' agent had not informed the Brewers they were out, but he told them Roberts was leaning toward a West Coast team because he is a native Californian. Also, Roberts has made no secret of his desire to play for Bochy again.