Trades may upstage free agents as teams remain cost-conscious.(South Florida Sun-Sentinel)

As early as Monday, free-agent first baseman Jim Thome could announce whether he will remain in Cleveland or bolt for Philadelphia. Tom Glavine, thus far the market's most sought-after starter, may have a new address next week as well.

Then what?

Baseball's hot stove may resemble more of a lukewarm furnace in terms of the millions doled out for free agents.

Future Hall of Famers Greg Maddux and Roger Clemens are still out there. So are catcher Ivan Rodriguez, first baseman Frank Thomas, second baseman Jeff Kent and imports Hideki Matsui (Japan) and Jose Contreras (Cuba), once he establishes residency in another country.

All will find work and garner exceptional wages, but as the age of the luxury tax takes hold, the winter's biggest headlines probably won't come from players signed, but rather from players shifted. Where things will likely continue bubbling as the winter meetings in Nashville approach (Dec. 13-16) are in trade talks.

The quality that can be acquired from other teams is no worse that what can be plucked from the free-agent market. Need a front-line starter? Would you rather sign Maddux or trade for Montreal's Bartolo Colon?

Free-agent third baseman David Bell is spoken for, having agreed to a four-year deal with the Phillies. Don't be surprised if teams pass on Robin Ventura, Todd Zeile and Bill Mueller and make a pitch for Kansas City's Joe Randa, Texas' Hank Blaylock or the Marlins' Mike Lowell.