These are some quick notes on some of the big headlines around baseball today:

• Despite the Royals declining his $12.5 million club option, designated hitter Billy Butler is hoping to resign with the team. Read more- Yahoo Sports
• The Arizona Diamondbacks are reportedly willing to trade away catcher Miguel Montero. Read more- Fox Sports

• According to reports, the Toronto Blue Jays have received a lot of trade interest on pitcher J.A. Happ. Read more- Hardball Talk
• After declining Alex Avila’s option, the Detroit Tigers are still hoping to bring the veteran catcher back. Read more- theScore
• According to a report, the New York Yankees are unlikely to extend a qualifying offer to pitcher Hiroki Kuroda. Read more- Hardball Talk
• The Baltimore Orioles are discussing a 4-year deal with their longest tenured player, outfielder Nick Markakis. Read more- CBS Sports
• According to a report, The Minnesota Twins are planning to introduce Paul Molitor as their new manager on Tuesday, just one day after the Cubs are set to introduce Joe Maddon as their new manager. Read more- theScore
• The Atlanta Braves have informed pitcher Ervin Santana that he will indeed receive a qualifying offer from the team, according to a report. Read more- Braves.com
• The Los Angeles Dodgers are expected to extend a qualifying option to infielder Hanley Ramirez. Read more- CBS Sports
• The Miami Marlins are hoping to extend star outfielder Giancarlo Stanton by the annual winter meetings. Read more- theScore

Chris Brown, St. Louis Baseball Today