- The Cubs may look very different in 2012 because the likelihood of Zambrano and Soriano being traded or released, Pena looking for a multi-year deal, and Aramis Ramirez wanting to test free agency.
- The Marlins maybe willing to offer Ramirez a 4 year deal worth 50+ million dollars according to sources. Cubs CANNOT compete with that!
- The Tigers, Twins, Rockies, Giants, Dodgers, Angels, Phillies, and Mariners all have some level of interest in Ramirez.
- Carlos Pena first choice is to remain with the Cubs but he said he also wants a multi-year deal which could force the Cubs to pass on Pena.
- Pena will likely not sign a contract until after Pujols and Fielder sign so he can see what the market is. This plays well for the Cubs because there is less of a chance the Cubs come up empty handed if he signs after Albert and Prince rather than before.
- If the Cubs lose out on all three big hitters then they could go with LaHair at 1st full-time or settle for lower tier guys like Michael Cuddyer or Derek Lee.
- Tom Ricketts could get creative in trying to lure guys like Epstien and Friedman by appointing them GM and a either President or VP of Baseball Operations for the Cubs as well which would be a step up for both Friedman and Epstien.
- Ricketts wants to focus of building a team within and does not necessarily want to spend all the money he has on big named free agents.
- Some more rumors are out saying Marlon Byrd will be dangled this offseason.
- Dempster coming back next season is not a slam dunk like everyone thought it was.
- There are grumblings from the Cubs clubhouse that some players will not return or may ask to be dealt if Quade remains manager.
Until Next Time...
Everyone in our division was kind to us this month except, Milwaukee. Pirates won 2 of 3,Reds won 4 of 7,Astros won 2 of 3,Cards won 2 of 3. But Milwaukee lost 2 of 3 to the Cubs. If S.D. could sweep the cubs, then they would draft 5th. If not they would draft 6th through 11th, depending on the wins. GO PADRES.
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