Here’s your open thread for news, rumors and whatnot during the first day of the MLB Winter Meetings in San Diego:

Jon Lester: Our long national nightmare may soon be over, according to Buster Olney:

Lester talks nearing the finish line, sources say. Choice will be made no earlier than tonight, no later than tomorrow.

— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) December 8, 2014

Ken Rosenthal says the Giants are getting “serious consideration” on Lester. He later added that it is appears to be down to the Giants and the Cubs. Lester is apparently standing in the way of a Chase Headley decision.

Cubs: Jason Hammel is returning to the North Side, reportedly at a very team-friendly deal. Two years, $20 million guaranteed. Bleacher Nation has all the details, as always. Meanwhile, the Cubs and Diamondbacks are talking about a Miguel Montero deal.

Brandon Moss: The dismantling of the Oakland Athletics continues apace, as Oakland sends Brandon Moss to the Indians, according to Jeff Passan. Moss, 31, was an All-Star last year, was slowed by a second-half injury, and has seen his numbers dip each of the last two seasons. The A’s get 24-year-old AA second baseman Joe Wendle (a native of Wilmington, Delaware).

Madison Bumgarner: The Giants postseason hero was named Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year.

Red Sox: Might the Red Sox try to trade for Cole Hamels even if they land Jon Lester? Could be, Tweets Ken Rosenthal.

Blue Jays: Nick Swisher has a no-trade clause in his contract naming just one team: the Blue Jays.

Hall of Fame: No Golden Era Hall of Famers this year.

White Sox: Kenny Williams isn’t going to the Blue Jays, thanks to his owner. Meanwhile, the Sox are about to acquire Jeff Samardzija, it appears.

Rays: Matt Silverman of the Rays says MLB’s investigation into tampering charges against the Cubs in the hiring of Joe Maddon is still ongoing. Good luck with that.

Mariners: The M’s are looking for an outfield bat – and don’t have their heart set on Melky.

Braves: Atlanta signed 25-year-old Cuban outfielder Dian Toscano, Baseball America reports.

Yankees: They may give David Robertson four years in the Bronx.