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Agent: Dodgers, Twins leading in Blake pursuit
Blake, 35, is seeking a three-year contract. He has until midnight Sunday to accept the Dodgers' offer of salary arbitration, but could sign a new deal with the Dodgers or Twins before then.
"We've made progress with both the Dodgers and Twins," McDowell told FOXSports.com. "They've been more persistent and more involved.
"I've had pretty regular conversations with the Indians, but I wouldn't say they've been as persistent as the Twins and Dodgers."
The Indians, who traded Blake to the Dodgers last July, are reluctant to give Blake a three-year deal, major-league sources said. Other teams also are interested in Blake, McDowell said, but not to the extent of the Dodgers and Twins.
Asked if Blake will command a three-year contract, McDowell said, "I would think so. Without anything done, you don't know for sure. But that's the range we've been discussing."
Blake batted a combined .274 last season for the Indians and Dodgers with 21 home runs and 81 RBIs, helping the Dodgers reach the National League Championship Series.
Both the Indians and Dodgers used him mainly at third base, but Blake plays both infield corners and both outfield corners, making him especially valuable in the NL.
The Twins, looking for a third baseman, could be Blake's choice if he wants to return to the Midwest. Blake is a native of Indianola, Iowa.
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