A.L. West news & notes for Oct. 18

The Astros were reportedly one of three teams still in the running for Free Agent 1B/DH Jose Abreu on Thursday. Ultimately the Cuban defector agreed to a 6-year, $68 million deal with the White Sox. The Astros had already made room for Abreu on the 40-man roster by outrighting outfielder Trevor Crowe and reliever Jorge De Leon earlier in the day.

The big news coming out of Arlington Thursday was the announcement that Nolan Ryan will be parting ways with the Rangers at the end of the month.

Here’s a look at what else has been going on around the American League’s western division.

Coaching changes in Anaheim include the addition of Don Baylor as hitting coach.

"He’s spent 10 years as a hitting coach in the Majors, with the Brewers (1990-91), Cardinals (’92), Braves (’99), Mariners (’05), Rockies (’09-10) and D-backs (’11-13). In six of those seasons, his offense finished among the top 10 in the Majors in runs scored."

The Mariners’ managerial search continues after talks with Lou Piniella were blown out of proportion.

"The Mariners simply asked if he was interested, and he indicated maybe, and then a little while later he indicated no. The Mariners say there was never any full-court press, and they didn’t seek Piniella out, and they have a very long list of managerial candidates for 2014."

The Oakland Athletics are reportedly interested in retaining the services of outfielder Coco Crisp.

"Like Crisp, outfielders Chris Young, catcher Kurt Suzuki and left-handed pitcher Brett Anderson have contract options that the A’s can take or reject. Anderson probably is in the “take” pile. Young, due $11 million, is almost certainly gone. Suzuki, due $8.5 million, is in limbo, but he probably is gone, too."

After failing to strike a deal with Abreu the Astros turn to another international slugger.

"The Peoria coaching staff reminded Amador to be a little bit quicker with his hands to counter that velocity. Amador hopes to enhance his power by losing 15-20 pounds through a workout and diet regiment before Spring Training."

Nolan Ryan is leaving the Texas Rangers (Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports)