At the MLB.com Hot Stove blog, Jason Beck notes that Kenny Rogers has yet to file for free agency. 

Given that Rogers hasn't yet answered whether he intends to pitch next year or retire, the wait adds to the mystery regarding his situation.

Technically, the filing has nothing to do with his decision.  Players who retire often file anyway if they're eligible.  Fellow Tiger Todd Jones, who announced his retirement near season's end, filed earlier.

Rogers, who just turned 44, has until Thursday to file, but what is he waiting for?  Is he still mulling over whether or not he'll pitch next year?  Given his stated preference to play for the Tigers in 2009, is he waiting for the team to begin negotiations?  Is this a signal to other teams not to bother contacting him?  Is he holding or folding?

(What if Rogers doesn't file by the deadline?  Well... I'm trying to find that out now.  Perhaps he loses the right to negotiate a contract with other teams besides the Tigers?  If anyone knows - or can find something in the collective bargaining agreement that I missed - please enlighten us in the comments.  But I don't see why a player eligible for free agency still wouldn't be.)

Wouldn't Scott Boras have taken care of this stuff already?

And have I exhausted every possible play on the lyrics for "The Gambler"?  I think I could still keep this going, but sometimes need to be told when to quit.

UPDATE (8:30 p.m. EST):  Never mind.  Rogers filed for free agency shortly after this was posted.  Maybe he was prompted (or reminded of the deadline) by Beck's post.  Or mine.  (Hat tip: Billfer)