Hot Stove Cubbies

Cubs Rumor Mill Update

2012-01-26T16:52:00.002-06:00

- The Cubs are interested in utility player Adrian Cardenas who was recently designated for assignment by the A's to make room for Johnny Gomes. Cardenas just turned 24 in October and was a first round pick in 2006 by the Phillies. He was once was compared to Chase Utley which you will find here and you can see his very impressive numbers in 6 minor league seasons here. If the Cubs acquired Cardenas it means a player like Blake DeWitt could find himself the odd man out because Adrian has more upside, younger, and is a lot cheaper.

- The Cubs have 3 prospects in the MLB.com top 100 prospects with Brett Jackson (33), Anthony Rizzo (37) and Javier Baez (62).

- It is unclear whether the Tigers are in on Cespedes but many media outlets are reporting that they are in fact in on Yoenis. You can also add two other "mystery" teams to the Cespedes sweepstakes which I thought could be the Cards and Braves. I now believe the Dodgers are heavy on Cespedes as well and could be labled as one of the mystery teams.

- Oh, did I forget to mention that Cespedes is officially a free agent. If you followed me on Twitter (@HotStoveCubbies) then you would have heard right when it happened.

- Cespedes prefers the Chicago Cubs to Miami; in fact he may prefer the Cubs over any team in baseball according to my sources.

- Gerardo Concepcion's agent says he has at least 10 offers on the table and he could be making a decision by this weekend. A source told me the Cubs bid aggressively on Concepcion because scouts view him as high as a #3 starter and as low as a long-reliever/5th starter. Reports say the Rangers, Yankees, Cubs, and White Sox have been the most aggressive.

- A source told me it is very possible that the Cubs get both Concepcion and Cespedes before the middle of Febuary and also ink Soler before July. The source also says the scouts as well as Jed, Jason, and Theo are very high on all three.

- To make the Kerry Wood move official the Cubs have removed Manny Corpas off the 40 man roster and will likely start in AAA Iowa. Although he will have a chance to win a spot as a non-roster invitee in ST.

Until Next Time....

Prince, Garza, Concepcion, Soler, Soriano, and Cespedes

2012-01-24T16:14:00.005-06:00

UPDATE 4:48 PM- Yoenis Cespedes has gain residency in the Dominican and will be granted free agency soon according to sources. So let the bidding begin!

Wow! Who saw Prince Fielder landing with the Tigers for 9 years $215M? I think no one! Now that Prince and King Albert are out of the NL lets check out what is going on in Cubland.

- Gerardo Concepcion could decide within the week on which team will win his services. He stats he has two offers on the table right now. The Yankees, Cubs, and Rangers are all "in" on him.

- Levine says the Cubs will either sign Garza to an extension before ST or trade him between now and July 31st.

- Although not official the Cubs have signed Matt Tolbert to a minor league deal with an invite to ST.

- Levine feels Soriano will be with the team during ST but maybe traded before Opening Day.

- Now that the compensation issue is on Bud Selig's desk you can expect the Red Sox to get a low-level prospect and some cash.

- Levine mentions that Braves 2nd baseman Martin Prado as a possibility for 2nd base next season. He still views Barney as a middle infield bench player and I agree. He also links Marlon Byrd to the Braves who have had recent and past interest in him. Find more on Prado here.

- The Cubs will bid "big bucks" for Soler and Cespedes according to sources. Both are young guys; with Cespedes helping more now and Soler helping more in the future.

- With the Tigers locking up Prince for many years it means two great things for the Cubs-

*******1. The Tigers are officially out of the Cespedes derby which means the Marlins and Cubs are the two remaining serious suitors for the Cuban star.

*******2. The Tigers now see a clear path for victory in the AL central but passed that is not looking as good. The Tigers next upgrade could be the rotation and it just so happens that after the Prince signing they are likely to add pitching via trade by dangling some young prospects. One pitcher named Jacob Turner has been on the table then off the table and back on again. I can assure you he is being viewed as trade bait. But one player until today was almost deemed "not available" is Nick Castellanos. The reason he was viewed as "untouchable" is because he was the future for the Tigers at 3rd base but now he could be blocked by Miguel Cabrera when Victor Martinez comes back; making him also trade bait.

I talked to a reliable source recently that stated this move for Prince Fielder makes perfect sense because now they can trade Castellanos and Turner for a top of the rotation pitcher (Matt Garza). He says when Victor Martinez comes back he will likely man 1st or DH while Prince Fielder will play 1st or DH depending on Martinez which in turn would move Cabrera back to his original and natural position of 3rd base. VMart is not a free agent until after the 2015 season which is the earliest FA out of the trio.

I have to say this makes more and more sense for both the Tigers and Cubs. The Cubs would be netting two top prospects to head in their direction for the future while the Tigers deal a promising young pitcher and blocked 3rd base prospect for two years of an established top of the rotation pitcher that has success not only in the AL but in the toughest division the AL East. Not to mention it is a win now move for the Tigers, something they are obviously moving toward. So I say watch for the Tigers/Cubs trade chatter to increase especially with the looming arbitration case fast approaching for Garza and the Cubs.

Until Next Time...

Talking Trades, Firing Up Free Agency, and Invitees

2012-01-20T16:12:00.003-06:00

Let’s get caught up on some rumors and news…

- The Cubs and Yankees are still talking about a Phil Hughes/Ryan Dempster swap but money is the hang up right now and the Yankees maybe asking for another prospect in return.
- The Cubs are currently farther apart with Matt Garza in arbitration than recently thought. Garza wants $12.5M in arbitration and the Cubs want to pay him $7.95M. With those figures you can bet Garza will lose the case if it goes to arbitration.
- Many feel this is Garza’s way of putting his mark on wanting off the rebuilding Cubs squad. The Cubs will not benefit from seeing his per year price go up.
- The Cubs are going hard after another Cuban not name Soler or Cespedes. The Cubs have been really active in International players recently and have serious interest in 18 year old lefty Gerardo Concepcion. We first heard his name 2 months ago but nothing has came of him since now because he is about to gain residency thus becoming a free agent.
- I talked to three different sources that say the Cubs are likely to sign 2 of the three Cuban player (those players include Soler, Cespedes, and Concepcion).
- The Cubs officially signed Jason Jaramillo and Rodrigo Lopez to minor league deal with invites to ST.
- A recent rumor bouncing around the web is that Soriano actually turned down a trade to the O’s. If that is true then what a shame.
- Here is something of interest that I heard from a source. The Cards have offered Prince Fielder a 6 year deal? I have not been able to confirm from other sources but I thought I would pass it along.
- The Tigers may still have some small interest in Marlon Byrd or Alfonso Soriano. I really do not see then going after the two especially with Matsui and Vlad still on the FA market.
- Teams interested in Matt Garza have reproached the Cubs according to Bleacher Nation.
- If the Cubs trade Soriano or Byrd they could trade or sign an outfielder instead of calling up Jackson.
- Sean Marshall says he would like to come back to the Cubs after the season when he is a FA.
- The Cubs have signed utility player Alfredo Amezaga to a minor league deal.
- The Cubs are expected to announce their list of non-roster invites to big league camp.
- In case you missed it the Cubs avoided arbitration with 6 players this week signing Jeff Baker at $1.375M, Blake DeWitt at $1.1M, and Geovany Soto to $4.3 M; Ian Stewart to $2.3755 M, Chris Volstad $2.655 M, and Randy Wells $2.705 M.
- The Cubs are still interested in bringing in a veteran utility infielder like Omar Vizquel, Bill Hall, and Alex Cora.
- The Cubs could also trade for a more established 2nd baseman. Theo and Co. are not exactly sold on Darwin Barney starting at 2nd next season. A cheap trade option would be Orlando Hudson.
- The Cubs have not and will not move off of their asking price of Jacob Turner and Nick Castellanos from the Tigers for Garza. A source told me Turner and Castellanos for Garza has been on the table for a week.

Until Next Time..

A Rumor Here... A Rumor There

2012-01-16T13:12:00.002-06:00

- Wrigley Field is rolling out some changes which you can see here for the 2012 season. I really like the addition without compromising the integrity of the ballpark. I watched what Theo and Co. did to Fenway and I cannot say enough great things about what he did there. If the same thing is done here Cubs fans can be nothing but happy.

- Jason McLeod said the players facilities are a challenge at Wrigley which is obvious. I heard from a really good source that the Cubs Brass including Tom Ricketts have met with architectural designers with the idea of adding player facilities below Wrigley Field itself. This would be a huge undertaking but the source had this encouraging thing to say "The plans they are rolling out and talking about will revolutionize the Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field, and MLB in general. Players will want to play here even more, Coaches will want to coach here, and the Chicago Cubs will be looked at as the place to go in MLB."

- Another surprise thing said in CubsCon was the idea of Tommy John rebounding pitcher Robert Whitenack may break ST with the Cubs.

- The Cubs are willing to trade Matt Garza for Jacob Turner and Nick Castellanos straight up says a source. In fact that trade is still being discussed and the Cubs have not backed off that asking price and probably won't.

- According to George Ofman the Cubs are more pressed to trade Garza then others may be reporting.

- In already a great off-season if the Cubs can somehow trade unload Soriano, trade Byrd to get some young minor leaguers back, and trade Garza for Jacob Turner and Nick Castellanos it would be the best off-season in my life-time.

- The Cubs are prepared to make "great" offers to both Jorge Soler and Yoenis Cespedes but are more "in" on Soler because of the Marlins rumored offer for Cespedes could be in the 6 year range around $50M+. If I am the Cubs and I am going to challenge that deal I better be right on how good he is going to be and hope he does not end up like a Kei Igawa or Wily Mo Pena.

- Oh in case you did not know. Prince Fielder is not going to happen! I expect him to sign a 6+
year deal worth over $175M with the Nationals.

- So as I am finishing up here a tidbit comes across my inbox that says the Cubs and Yankees are discussing a Ryan Dempster for Phil Hughes swap with the Cubs paying part of Dempster's contract. This would be another move for the future if it in fact happens; not to mention a wonderful move for the Cubs. You can find the 25 year old Hughes stats here.

Until Next Time...

Cubs Quick Hits

2012-01-14T09:44:00.004-06:00

- The Cubs have signed Kerry Wood to a one-year deal worth $3M and a option for 2013 of $3M.

- Soriano said he would accept a trade out of Chicago but only to a contender and the place has to fit him and his family well.

- The Yankees are looking for a power bat DH and rumors are circling about a possible AJ Burnett/Alfonso Soriano trade. On the surface the trade makes since because AJ will make $33M over the next two years and Soriano will make $54M over the next 3 so offsetting the money could be a hurdle though. Soriano is comfortable in New York having played there and the Yankees are undoubtedly contenders. This would look like a typical Cubs move but we cannot forget Theo is in charge now not Jim Hendry. Hendry would make this deal for sure but I am not so sure on Theo because it does not follow the direction they are heading.

- Not sure if the Montero/Pineda effects Garza trade value in a good or bad way but it does take the Yanks out of the equation. Several good things that comes out of it is the Tigers, Blue Jays, Rangers (if unable to sign Darvish), and Red Sox are likely to step up their efforts on Garza to make a corresponding splash. One thing that may affect Garza's value is the price of Pineda may have brought it down depending on the other teams involved.

- The Red Sox recently have been the most aggressive in conversations with the Cubs according to sources. I just don't see how the Sox have enough quality prospects to add Garza.

- I believe in the Tigers prospects so much I would trade Garza, Vitters, and McNutt for Turner, Nick Castellanos, and Drew Smyly.

Until Next Time...

Cubs Rumors and News- Wood, Soler, Garza, Marmol, Soriano, and more...

2012-01-12T15:50:00.003-06:00

- The Cubs have agreed to sign Kerry Wood to a one year deal with an option for 2013. This is just a feel good move for the Cubs especially with David Kaplan and others saying Wood was as good as gone a few days ago. Welcome back Kerry!

- The Cubs made two international signings that I may have missed. They inking 19 year old outfielder Yasiel Balaguert for 400K and pitcher Carlos Martinez, 20, for 250K. Both will be players to keep and eye on but will not impact the team until years down the road unless the surprise.

- The Cubs are watching the Cespedes and Soler situation very carefully. Cespedes price seems to be coming down which can really benefit the Cubs but a source recently told me they actually prefer Jorge Soler because his cost will be lower than Cespedes, he is much younger (19), and will be placed in the minors. Cespedes is likely to ink a ML deal where as Soler could end up with a deal much like Samadizja did and start in the minors.

-Here is a quote from Theo Epstein (via Bleachernation.com) on Matt Garza which says a lot-

“I’m hoping to talk to [Garza] this weekend [at the Cubs Convention],” Epstein said. “I’ve kept his representatives updated every step. But let’s downplay this. This is really more what has happened in the media than what has happened in reality. There was no attempt to shop him. This is not an everyday endeavor for us.
“As we do with all of our players, we weigh all of our options. Really I think very highly of Matt Garza. I think he’s a top-of-the-rotation guy, and I’m looking forward to him being on the mound for us this season. But we are being transparent about the fact that sometimes it makes sense to weigh your options and see if you can put yourself in a better position for the long haul.
“It makes sense for the organization to turn short-term assets into long-term assets. You can do that like we did with Sean. For one year with Sean Marshall we get five years of Travis Wood. But there is another way to do it. You can also find a contract extension that makes sense for both parties and create long-term impact that way.
“You hate to talk about it because you hate to have the player read about it, but we also want to be transparent as we try to set the organization up for the long haul.”

-The Cubs waived recently required Jeff Bianchi to make room for newly acquired Paul Maholm.

-Some Cubs officials are resigned to the fact Soriano will be in LF on Opening Day because Theo does not want to pay as much of his contract as previously thought.

-Two clubs that have some interest in Soriano are the O’s and Mariners but will wait until the FA market decreases before doing too much talking. There is a ton of cheap DH/OF types there.

-According to a source Theo had several calls on Carlos Marmol earlier this off-season but waited on pulling the trigger to get a better package. Since then the market for closers has dropped off significantly from Papelbon getting 4 years $50M to Ryan Madson getting 1 year $8.5M. So his value went from rumors such as Marmol for Morales or a Marmol package for Matt Harrison to non-existent and teams wanting the Cubs to pick up money on the deal. So it is likely the Cubs will hold onto Marmol until at least the deadline.

-The Cubs have talked to numerous teams about Marlon Byrd but want to trade Soriano instead. Both could be out the door by Opening Day.

-Nick Castellanos remains the sticking point in the Garza to Tigers trade talks. The Cubs want Castellanos and Turner plus two other young low level prospects.

-A very reliable source of mine said do not be surprised if the Cubs include a Josh Vitters and/or Trey McNutt in a Garza deal to get more/better prospects coming back to them. A perfect example would be Garza, Vitters, and McNutt for Jacob Turner, Nick Castellanos, Drew Smyly, Jay Voss, and fill in prospect/minor leaguer.

-On Twitter yesterday I guess correctly on the landing spot of Fernando Martinez, with the Astros.

Until Next Time....

Maholm, 40-Man, Wood, Hoyer, Garza, and More..

2012-01-10T16:52:00.001-06:00

-The Chicago Cubs have come to terns with left-hander Paul Maholm on a one year deal worth $4.25M and an option for 2013 at $6.5M with a 500K buyout. This is an exceptional deal giving the fact most media outlets including myself thought the Cubs would offer a guaranteed two year deal worth something in the teen range. This is a great deal for the Cubbies.

-Because of this move the Cubs roster now is at 41 so a roster move must be made. Some guys that could be dealt, DFA, or released are Maine, Gaub, Coleman, or Mateo.

-Kerry Wood coming back to the Cubs is now looking less likely. On CSN he sounded like a guy that is ready to move on by saying great things about the Cubs and Chicago but said it around the saying “that will never change” which means someone maybe moving on.

-Earlier reports suggest Theo wants Wood on a 1 year deal worth about 2 million while Wood wants a 1 year deal worth market value which is 5 million or so. I hope in the end whether it is a million or 5 million he ends up on the north side of Chicago.

-Jed Hoyer still hopes to sign Kerry Wood and knows how much he means to the fan base.

-Jed says he offer Wood a substantial raise to the $1.5M he signed last year.

-Hoyer said he will prepare Shark as a starter but will be still open to sending him back to the bullpen depending on moves they do and don’t make between now and Opening Day.

-Hoyer said the Maholm signing is not a precursor to any other move. Did anyone expect him to say something different?

-Theo and Jed are in the same boat as the fans wanting to get a deal done with Kerry Wood to bring him back to Chicago for next year and beyond.

-David Kaplan shook the twitter world yesterday saying the Cubs and Tigers talks about Matt Garza progressing and later stated he means talks are past the preliminary stages which to me are is not a big rumor. A preliminary stage to me would be conversations after expressing interest.

-Rumors are circulating that the Cubs want both Jacob Turner and Nick Castellanos in a trade for Garza. It is unlikely that will happen unless Theo is a miracle worker.

-I sent a tweet out yesterday purposing a trade that would send Matt Garza, Geovany Soto, and Carlos Marmol to the Yankees for Jesus Montero, Manny Banuelos, Dellin Betances, and Dante Bichette Jr. To me that would be ideal for both teams but the Yanks would have to go over the luxury tax to get that done. Something they are hesitant about.

-The Cubs are interested in bring back Rodrigo Lopez on a minor league deal. Theo and Co. were hell bent on adding depth to the rotation this year.

-According to Brett at Bleacher Nation talks between the Cubs and Tigers are progressing well but nothing is imminent.

-I am hearing the Rangers may come in to try to trade for Garza if they cannot sign Darvish. Rangers have a great farm system and the Cubs could ask for guys like LHP Martin Perez, 3rd Mel Olt, RHP Neil Ramirez, CF Leonys Martin, etc. The Cubs could also ask for young big league talent for Texas like Alexi Ogando or Matt Harrison.

-If the Rangers do not sign Darvish then I think the Yankees, Tigers, Rangers, and Jays are the only matches for the Cubs in a Garza trade. Other teams are either in the same division, do not need Garza or not in contention, or do not have the farm to acquire him. Yes I excluded the Red Sox from that list because they do not have the players the Yanks, Tigers, Rangers, and Jays have. So they are about as likely as the Astros acquiring Garza.

Until Next Time

Rizzo/Cashner Trade, Soriano, BRob, DLee, Wood, and More....

2012-01-06T16:11:00.001-06:00

The Chicago Cubs made another big move today acquiring Anthony Rizzo and Zach Cates for Andrew Cashner and Kyung-Min Na. I will look at what the Cubs gave up, what the Cubs are getting, and what I think about the trade.

First let’s take a look at what the Cubs gave up. Andrew Cashner is no doubt going to be a top pitcher either in the rotation or out of the pen if he can stay healthy. At only 25 years old and a fastball that sits in mid 90’s he looks really good. The one big thing wrong with Cashner is he is a young power pitcher who relies on throwing his pitches hard which would not be an issue if he had flawless mechanics which has been problem. Earlier this year it was discussed that his form caused his issues with his rotator cuff that landed him on the DL. This is something that has to be fixed so he can stay healthy but one thing we have learned from the Cubs is that altering mechanics can be a big issue and cause you to be less effective. But there is no doubts the Padres are getting a good; possibly great, pitcher in Casher. The Cubs also gave up outfielder Kyng-Min Na (more info here) who is also a prospect in the Cubs system but is expendable because of the amount of OF minor leaguers in the Cubs system.

The only thing the Cubs got is a 22 year old first baseman (Anthony Rizzo info HERE) who hits from the left side and hit .331 with a .404 OBP 26 homers 101 RBI and 7 SB in 413 PA last season; THAT’S ALL! Rizzo is now the Cubs future first baseman for at least the next decade you would think. Rizzo was drafted under Theo Epstein, Jed Hoyer, and Jason McLeod so the interest was definitely there and why Rizzo cost the Cubs Cashner and Na. The Cubs also got a 22 year old right-handed pitcher named Zach Cates (more info found here). Cates was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2010 MLB Amateur Draft so there is obvious interest from McLeod and Hoyer to reacquire him. In Cates first year in the minors he started 25 games, had a 4.73 ERA, with 111 Ks in 118 IP. While his numbers are not bad they are not good either but being 22 years old he has a ton of time to develop in the Cubs system.

Now looking at the trade I see this as a huge win for the Cubs and the Padres. This is another case where both teams are benefiting and taking a “gamble” (and I use that loosely) on younger players. The Padres have been working hard to acquire young pitching and the Cubs have been looking for their first baseman of the future which both helped out each other with their needs. I love this trade and applaud the Cubs brass for making it!

Now taking that into consideration here are some news and notes addressing the aftermath of the trade (plus other rumors and notes)-

-According to Carrie Muskat Hoyer says Bryan LaHair will be the starter at 1st next season and Rizzo will start the season in AAA.

-Jed Hoyer says the Cubs are willing to go through some growing pains with young players. I really like that idea.

-Because of this trade and the news following the Cubs maybe looking for a backup at first. They have been linked to Derrek Lee, Jorge Cantu, and Connor Jackson.

-Twitter blew up with the rumor of Soriano going to Baltimore for Brian Roberts being discussed. This trade makes sense for both teams but it is not a Theo type move. I think Theo would rather get a young player and pay almost Soriano’s entire contract than pay half his contract and acquire a guy like Roberts. At least that is what I see.

-The Cashner/Rizzo trade signifies the end to the Prince Fielder talk (thank God) and now the talks will heat up involving Marmol, Garza, Byrd, and Dempster.

-According to reports the Cubs and Kerry Wood are nearing completion on a one-year deal.

-The Red Sox and Cubs have been talking about a Marlon Byrd trade which makes a ton of sense for both teams. The Cubs will look for a low level minor leaguer and salary relief.

-The Cubs are still very interested in Paul Maholm.

-The Cubs have interest in Omar Vizquel and Jack Wilson according to sources.

-The Cubs signed Edgar Gonzalez and Joe Mather to minor league deals.

Until Next Time…

What Does the Z/Volstad Trade Mean?

2012-01-05T20:02:00.000-06:00

Last night the Cubs traded Carlos Zambrano for Chris Volstad which seems like a normal move but it means much more than just what is on the surface. Carlos Zambrano has been one of my favorite players to watch the past years because of his fire and passion and lets face it his theatrics. But until recently I chalked those things up to being just him and showing fire (now I know there are issues there). So when I heard the news last night about the trade it immediately go my attention and caused me to ponder the direction of the Cubs and what this move means below the surface.

First I want to give the details and my take on the deal. The Cubs sent Zambrano to the Miami Marlins for Chris Volstad. The Cubs are also paying $15.5M of the $18M left on Big Z contract. The Cubs are responsible for the arbitration case of Chris Volstad in which he is expected to make $2.6M so the deal is not really saving the Cubs any cash unless Z obtains his vesting option for 2013 which includes placing first or second in CY Young voting and being healthy at the end of 2012. If he does obtain that then he will be paid $19.25M for 2013.

So we already know about Zambrano so let’s take a look at Chris Volstad. Volstad is a 25 year old right handed pitcher who was 16th overall pick in the 2005 draft. Volstad stands at a tall 6 foot 8 230lbs but by no means is a power/K pitcher. Volstad has a career 32-39 record in 4 ML seasons; he has not pitched over 175 innings but has made at least 29 starts the past 3 years. Volstad is prone to giving up the homer but does not walk too many guys. He is a nice young option for the back-end of the rotation. He actually reminds me of a young Jeff Weaver.

The trade in its self on the surface looks like a standard salary dump and taking on a player that does not have a further career in Miami but I think it goes much deeper than that. The Cubs are going in the right direction by selling on guys that are not going to help them this year or the next few years. They have traded Sean Marshall with incredible value, they are dangling their star pitcher (Garza) but will not “settle” on a mediocre package for him, and now they have traded a headache not to mention a overpriced pitcher for a young 25 year old that best years still maybe ahead of him. The Cubs completed the Z/Volstad trade by not losing any cash or taking on another bad contract which is a nice change. This trade signifies much like the Marshall deal details the direction Epstein and Co. are going. They are cutting the fat that is the Chicago Cubs and replacing it with athletic players and youth with high ceilings. They are adding good clubhouse guys, leaders, and young prospects. They are cutting cash and not jeopardizing the future; not to mention brings in their guys. Yes they have done some moves that look questionable on the surface but now all the moves together they make sense on a whole. David DeJesus and Reed Johnson are both “baseball players” in every sense of the word, good leaders, and athletic. Trading Tyler Colvin and DJ for Stewart is sending two prospects that they feel did not fit the mold of the new movement and acquire a guy that had a down year but high ceiling that could bounce back and have a great year. Trading 1 year of Sean Marshall for a young, cheap, left-handed starter in Travis Wood, two potential solid ML player prospects, and not to mention saving money. Most of all trading a headache in the Cubs system named Zambrano for a 25 year old righty who is a solid back of the rotation starter for the Cubs this year and maybe beyond. The Cubs direction is simple and straight forward; get younger, get more athletic, cut salary, cut players that don’t fit the mold or won’t contribute down the line, get the highest trade value possible for those players, get a nice supporting cast, add leadership to the clubhouse, and build on that foundation never loosing site of the main objective.

Because of this direction the Cubs trade talk about Marlon Byrd should increase as well as Garza, Marmol, Wells, Soriano, Dempster, Baker, DeWitt, Soto, and others. Am I saying all of those players will be traded by Opening Day probably not but I have faith in Theo that he will try and not settle on an average return for any of them (with maybe exception of Soriano who is now gaining interest for 3 AL clubs according to George Ofman). Theo, Jed, and the Cubs now have a clear direction and I now can say it is about time. Cub fans you can finally get excited about the direction of your team because you have the Theo formula; the winning formula.

Until Next Time….

Cubs Rumors and News Slowing Down... UPDATE- Now Z to Miami Thats News!

2012-01-04T19:48:00.003-06:00

UPDATE 7:12 PM-

Levine was right; the Cubs have sent Carlos Zambrano to the Marlins for 25 year old righty Chris Volstad. The Cubs will pay all but $2.5M of his contract and Volstad is expected to make 2.6 so the Cubs are really not saving any money just headaches which could mean more. I wish Z the best in Miami and say what you will I still will call Big Z one of my favorite Cubs to watch.

More on this in a later post.

Cubs talk has been slow but here are some tidbits-
-The Jays and Yankees are out of the Garza sweepstakes according to sources. I really find that hard to believe and think it is a ploy to have the Cubs drop their asking price which they won’t do.
-The Cubs are asking the Jays for 2 top pitching prospects and 3 position prospects for Garza. -The Cubs did ask for Brett Lawrie but got immediately shut down.
-The Cubs are asking the Yankees two of Jesus Montero, Eduardo Nunez, Hector Noesi, Dellin Betance, and Manny Banuelos in a package for Gaza. The Cubs also want two more pieces that are not included in that list.
-The Nationals are stepping up their pursuit on Fielder according to numerous reports. Fielder, Boras, and the Nats President met yesterday to discuss things. There is a lot of smoke around this front and it should be noted that the Nationals overpaid for Werth and they will likely do the same for Fielder.
-Some reports suggest the Nationals will guarantee 7 years with an option for the 8th to get Fielder to Washington.
-Reed Johnson officially signed with the Cubs on a one-year $1.5M deal. Nice to have Johnson back in Cubbie blue for next season.
-The Cubs lost out on CoCo Crisp than goodness! Crisp got an above market deal from the A’s that equals about half of Beltran’s contract. I have to be honest if the A’s are paying Crisp that much then they should not complain about money issues because they have done it to themselves.
-It seems the Tigers are the biggest player for Garza right now but the Cubs will be patient because they don’t have to trade Garza.
-There has been talk about a possible extension of Matt Garza but numbers have not been leaked.
-Bruce Levine says Detroit’s top OF prospect Avisail Garcia might be a piece the Cubs look for Garza as well as Turner.
-There are some teams that have mild interest in Soriano but are willing to wait because the longer Sori stays on the Cubs the more salary the Cubs are willing to pay.
-Levine still feels Z will be out of Chicago by Opening Day and he will end up with Ozzie in Miami.
-Bruce adds Atlanta to the list of teams that like Marlon Byrd. Other teams interested are Washington and Boston.
-The Rangers do have interest in Garza but only if they can deal Harrison.
-Levine thinks Manny Corpas will have a role with the team next season.
-Levine thinks Wood and the Cubs have a deal in place but are waiting on other moves before announcing it.
-He thinks the Cubs are still in on Fielder.
-Levine thinks the Cubs are not going to trade Marmol before Opening Day.
-He says the Cubs will add more infield depth to help with Barney at 2nd and Castro at SS.
-The Cubs are still very much in on Cespedes and Soler even with the logjam in the outfield right now.
Until Next Time…

The New Year Cubs Post

2012-01-01T08:17:00.003-06:00

Here are the rumor rundowns since the last post. There are some old but some new so lets get started-

- The Cubs were talking to the Blue Jays, Yankees, and Red Sox about Matt Garza earlier in the week but that has changed because the Marlins and Tigers have joined the pursuit.

- Scott Boras is trying sell Prince Fielder hard because rumors came out this week that Boras does not like the offers for Prince so far and Fielder my have to take a 3 year deal. This made Boras pretty angry and said it takes more than 3 to get Prince.

- The Cubs remain interested in Fielder but are also looking at younger, cheaper options for 1st base.

- Like it or not the Cubs may just go with in house option Brian LaHair at 1st next season as a stop gap. LaHair has 15 homers and is batting .271 in Winter league.

- If the Cubs do go with LaHair they would likely sign another 1st baseman to complement (not platoon) LaHair. Some names that have been talked about are Derrek Lee, Jorge Cantu, and Connor Jackson.

- Bleacher Nation says the Cubs have talked to numerous teams about a Matt Garza trade and he puts the chances on him getting dealt at 90%. I think that is a bit high because there is still a thought he could sign an extension.

- The Cubs offered Sean Marshall a contract extension before he was dealtto the Reds but said there was no guarantee he would not be moved in July.

- The three teams most active on the Garza front right now are the Tigers, Marlins, and Blue Jays in that order. MLBTR says the Tigers are willing to trade Turner in a package which would be an amazing get for the Cubs.

- The Blue Jays and Tigers have the best chance to land Garza because they have the prospects the Cubs seek for him. The Red Sox and Marlins are lacking on both.

- Trade talks between the Rangers and Cubs are increasing involving Carlos Marmol. The Rangers were in on Andrew Bailey before the Red Sox traded for him. Right now the sticking point is the Cubs want Matt Harrison and the Rangers are reluctant to give him up in a deal for Marmol.

- Some names of prospects on the Jays the Cubs like are Noah Syndergaard, Justin Nicolino, Daniel Norris, and Deck McGuire.

- A report last week indicated that Cubs want Jacob Turner, Andy Oliver, and 2 position prospects for Garza. If the Cubs could pull that trade off it would be amazing.

- The Blue Jays, Yankees, Red Sox, Marlins, Dbacks, and Mariners all have interest in trading for Ryan Dempster according to sources.

- The Blue Jays and Dbacks are amping up their pursuit more now on Dempster. The Jays like the idea of Dempster because he will cost less in prospects.

- MLB Rumor Central on twitter is reporting that Marlon Byrd is gaining interest from Washington and Boston.

- A source told me that Garza, Byrd, Z, and Dempster are the most likely to be traded by Opening Day. He also tells me that Soriano is more likely to get released than traded because of how bleak the market is for him.

- Jim Bowden says the best possible fits for Garza are Toronto, Boston, Detroit, Texas, and New York in that order. I respectively disagree I think it goes Detroit, Toronto, Miami, Boston, New York, and Texas.

- Cubs signed Cuban prospects Yasiel Balaguert and Carlos Martinez. You can find more on that here. Both are great pick ups for the Cubs.

- The Cubs still remain interested in 1st baseman Anthony Rizzo, Kendry Morales, Mark Trumbo, Gaby Sanchez, and Mitch Moreland via trade.

- Buster Olney said the Cubs have been talking to numerous teams about Garza but nothing is imminent. Rosenthal says the Marlins have serious interest in Matt Garza and the Cubs really like Christian Yelich but the Marlins are dangling Matt Domiguez, Gaby Sanchez, Chris Coghlan, and Jose Ceda. No thanks Miami I will stick with talent like Jacob Turner for Detroit.

- The Cubs have some mild interest in Kyle Blanks according to sources. He is the next trade candidate in San Diego. A DeWitt for Blanks trade makes sense for both teams.

Until Next Time..

Minor Signings, Moves Impacting Moves, Levine Notes, and Much More...

2011-12-27T15:17:00.000-06:00

- The Cubs have signed Andy Sonnastine and Manny Corpas to minor league split deals. Both are decent signings and a low risk/high reward move for the Cubs.
- The Cubs signed Jason Jaramillo to a minor league contract. He will likely battle the two young guns for Soto's backup. This could be a sign the Cubs are no longer interested in signing Jason Varitek. Or they could deal Soto and still sign Varitek because I doubt Jason takes a minor league deal.
- To confirm the thought on BleacherNation the Cubs are in advanced talks with many teams about Garza. I am hearing the Red Sox and Jays are two of them.
- I put a Garza trade before Opening Day at 60% because of how the talks have increased.
- In that same post at BleacherNation Brett has a juicy tidbit about Ryan Dempster saying if the Cubs truly wanted to move him and it was a good trade then he would consider waving his NTC.
- I can see the Cubs having interest in Kyle Drabek of the Jays if Gaza is moved but he will not be the centerpiece of the deal.
- Four prospects the Cubs would have some interest in if Garza is traded to the Jays are Jake Marisnick, Justin Nicolino , Travis d’Arnaud , and/or Noah Syndergaard.
- JimBowdenESPNxm on Twitter says the Cubs along with the Rays, Indians, and Cubs are looking at trading for Mark Trumbo or Anthony Rizzo.
Here is the latest from Bruce Levine
- His response to why Byrd is still in Chicago telling. He says because the Cubs have not signed CoCo Crisp yet or traded for a young CF from the Jays. Then adds in Byrd will be gone. I get three things from this 1) He knows something 2) He is reading the signs 3) He is trying to sell his site and chat more. I think it is a combination of all three.
- Levine states he is one of the few that think the Cubs have a shot at Fielder. He goes on by saying the Cubs have had continuous "intense" talks with Scott Boras.
- Levine stats the obvious that the Cubs are entertaining trading Garza to add younger pitching to the minor or major league level. He also name drops Kyle Drabek and Deck McGuire.
- Levine names CF prospects Anthony Gose and Jake Marisnick as two guys that the Cubs could obtain for Garza from the Jays.
- He thinks that Soto will be the catcher next season but not the future catcher; making Geo trade bait.
- Bruce thinks the Cubs will make a run at Rizzo but is not sure if the Padres and Cubs match up well trade wise. The Padres are looking for young cheap pitching.
- Levine thinks the Cubs need to sign Castro to an extension. I totally agree and I would go 6+ years.
- Levine says there is zero chance the Jays would give up Lawrie and I agree.
- Bryan LaHair maybe a stop gap for the Cubs next season according to Bruce.
- BleacherNation once again has a great write up on the Cuban outfielders Yoenis Cespedes and Jorge Soler. Because of the thought that Soler could sign in the summer and Cespedes will sign this month I would not count out the Cubs signing both this season. Both fit the direction the Cubs are heading.

Until Next Time…

Merry Christmas To All!

2011-12-24T14:31:00.003-06:00

I want to take this time to thank all of you that visit and contribute to my blog on a daily (sometimes hourly) basis. This is the time of year where we smile a little easier, be a little nicer, hug a little longer, and yes let the cheesiness come out in all of us. This is of course no exception!

I want to say thank you to everyone from Hot Stove Cubbies. Once again it is you; my devoted readers and followers (on twitter) that have made this site become better and better. You guys have pushed me to make this site one of the top Cubs rumor blogs on the Internet (just ask my visit counter, it broke!) and I really appreciate it. In the coming year we are once again going to move forward to make this site even better. There are new and exciting avenues I am exploring right now to take the blog to limitless expectations. So I suggest you all stay tuned for updates on that.

Make sure everyone follows me on Twitter @HotStoveCubbies and check the blog for in depth right ups and other features.

Once again thanks to all for contributing to the success of Hot Stove Cubbies. I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Report! Cubs Trade Marshall to the Reds

2011-12-21T17:45:00.003-06:00

The Chicago Cubs have agreed to a deal that was rumored last night starting with Ken Rosenthal. The Chicago Cubs have traded Sean Marshall to the Reds for Travis Wood and 2 minor leaguers. We talked about the rumor deal in today's post which you can find here. No report on the minor leaguers involved but here is to hoping Neftali Soto, Ronald Torreyes, Henry Rodriguez, and/or Tony Cingrani are in the deal!

The deal will be completed and announced once each player passes a physical. Look for updates here and on Twitter from Hot Stove Cubbies.

Cubs News and Notes: Marshall, Soriano, Re-build, Lefty Pitchers, and Much More..

2011-12-21T17:39:00.001-06:00

- The Chicago Cubs have agreed to terms with Reed Johnson on a one-year deal. Johnson will likely be the 4th outfielder and fits the mold of the recent signings; good defense, runs bases well, takes walks, and plays multiple positions on the field well.
- Adding Johnson does not mean Soriano or Byrd will be dealt but it does not hurt the chances either.
- The Cubs have been discussing a deal with Reds that would send Sean Marshall to Cincy for Travis Wood according to a report late Tuesday night from Ken Rosenthal, This move would be a classic move for the future the Cubs brass and fans have been waiting for. Marshall is owed $3.1M in 2012 and is a free agent in 2013 (he will be due a hefty raise). Wood is only 24 years old, a lefty starter, and pre-arbitration eligible. Looks good to me!
- Bruce Levine of ESPNChicago is reporting a deal is close while @eyeonbaseball on twitter is saying a deal is not.
- The Cubs have been in contact with both Paul Maholm and Jeff Francis according to MLBTR.com but they both could be collateral damage if the Cubs acquire Travis Wood.
- The Cubs could be acquiring to minor leaguers in the deal as well. Although I am told they are not top prospects but quality players in the minors.
- Players I would love to have that are not top 10 prospects on the Reds are 1st baseman Neftali Perez, infielder Ronald Torreyes, infielder Henry Rodriquez, and/or Tony Cingrani.
- There were rumors that the Cubs could then flip Wood for a position player like Rizzo but that has been debunked by CubbiesCrib.
- The Chicago Cubs are going to completely rebuild according to David Kaplan. You can see the story here. Although I see his thought process the troubling thing is none of this information is coming from a Cubs source at least that is what I am reading. I also question the signings of DeJesus and Johnson along with the trade of Stewart if they were completely going young and rebuilding.
- @thekapman on Twitter is David Kaplan and he has some more information regarding his story above. Here is what he is saying-
************* He says his MLB sources have been talking with the Cubs and Theo and Co. is committed to a full scale rebuild.
************* He says the Cubs will listen on everyone except Castro.
************* They are not in on Fielder.
************* He says these are not external sources.
- I honestly hope Kaplan is right because that means Soriano, Z, Marmol, Wells, Soto, Byrd, Dempster, etc should not be here on opening day because a full scale re-build is essentially a fire sale. I can understand re-signing Wood and keeping Dempster though because they are Cubs ambassadors.
- Theo Epstein made two more hires for the front office personnel with hiring Matt Dorey as national cross-checker of amateur talent and Kyle Evans he is a former pro scout for the Red Sox.
- The Chicago Cubs announced their minor league managers and staff here.
- The Cubs are still on Fielder but others are making offers according to sources. The thought is the Cubs are still interested but only on a 6 year or less deal. No way they do 7+ years.
- The Rangers are still eyeing Andrew Bailey according to Ken Rosenthal so my question is; are they still interested in Carlos Marmol? The Rangers had rumored interest earlier this offseason.
- The same goes for the Red Sox who say to have interest in Bailey as well. Could they still be in talks with the Cubs about Marmol?

Until Next Time…

How the Red/Padres Trade Affects the Cubs

2011-12-18T08:56:00.003-06:00

The Reds sent an overwhelming package of prospects to the Padres for Mat Latos. That package of players included Yonder Alonso, Edinson Volquez, Yasmani Grandal, and Brad Boxberger. Now this affects the Cubs in many ways so lets get down to it-

- The Cubs and Rays are among the most serious teams interested in Anthony Rizzo you can find his outstanding minor league number here. He is only 22 years old and has some limited ML experience after doing so well in the minors. He is now view as expendable from other teams and the Padres because of the acquisition of Alonso.

- The price of Matt Garza just went through the roof because of what the Padres got of Latos. Although do not get too excited because Latos is only 24, not arbitration eligible until 2013, and does not hit the open market until 2016. While Garza is 28, is due for a high arbitration raise, and is a free agent in 2014. Both have comparable numbers but Garza has more experience.

- I am surprised at the reports that the Padres are interested in Garza because he will likely be owed 8+ million next season and is a free agent in 2014. I guess I don't understand the swap of Latos and Garza because of cost issues with the Padres. Unless the Padres are serious about winning in the next two years which could be possible.

- I am hearing from my sources that the Cubs like major league ready players like Chase Headley and Kyle Blanks as well as prospects Grandal (who they recently required from the Reds), obviously Anthony Rizzo, 3rd base prospect Jed Gyorko, lefty Robert Erlin, and former Red Sox prospect Casey Kelly.

- I don't think it would be out of the question for the Cubs to obtain Anthony Rizzo, Chase Headley, Kyle Blanks, Robert Erlin, and Casey Kelly for Matt Garza, Ian Stewart, and Josh Vitters. That is really comparable to what the Cubs gave up for Garza.

- I am hearing the Padres have very little interest in Geovany Soto or Carlos Marmol now.

- If the Cubs did get Grandal or Gyorko or multiple pitchers they could deal Soto, Vitters, or Marmol to add even more depth to their minor leagues.

- On Twitter @CubsDen has a similar thought that a 3rd team would have to get involved to get a deal done. He suggests (I agree with) that Garza would go to 3rd team, San Diego gets prospects, Cubs get Rizzo, pitching prospect, and 3rd player. I would think the Cubs would get more than just 3 players for Garza. Getting Texas involved would be ideal and getting Anthoney Rizzo, Martin Perez, Chase Headley, and Robert Erlin would be amazing but I might be dreaming a bit.

OTHER NOTES-

- Cubbies Crib on twitter teased us on a possible Zambrano for Volstad so check there site here for updates.

- Another one of Hot Stove Cubbies friends will have a ton of information today I am sure and that is Bleacher Nation which you will find here.

- The Cubs are interested in signing Paul Maholm to a contract. He would a great pick up especially if the Cubs deal Zambrano and acquire a pitcher or two for Garza.

- The Cubs remain interested in Prince Fielder but many think that is either not true or a smoke screen. Your guess is as good as mine on Fielder, it is a headache trying to follow it.

I think you will be seeing my Twitter blowing up today with re-tweets, suggestions, rumors, and news regarding Rizzo and others. Please stay tuned to @HotStoveCubbies and here for the latest Cubs talk!

Until Next Time...

Cubs Stove Talk Update...

2011-12-16T23:16:00.002-06:00

UPDATE 11:00 PM- The Cubs are currently negotiating with Paul Maholm. No word yet if talks have progressed but he would be nice depth in the rotation and likely would end the Cubs pursuit of Joe Saunders if Paul is signed.

- Several sources (most notably the New York Post) are reporting that the Jays are believed to have won the bid on Darvish with a bid larger than $40M. There will not be an announcement until Tuesday or Wednesday
- I have not heard anything on how much the Cubs have bid but one source says it is large but not expected to win.
- Bleacher Nation has some great spin on the Jays winning the Darvish post. He says it probably takes them out of the Fielder race, it leaves the Rangers in the market for Matt Garza, and it may spur the Yankees on to wanting to acquire someone like Garza even more.
- The Chicago Cubs finally have their coaching staff together by finally naming Dave McKay as their 1st base coach. McKay is known for great outfield work with players and great base running knowledge. He will be a great asset to the team. McKay joins, Dave Sveum (manager), Judy Jaramillo (hitting coach), Chris Bosio (pitching coach), Jamie Quirk (bench coach), Les Strode (bullpen coach), and third base coach Pat Listach.
- Yoenis Cespedes has not taken up residency yet so he is not a free agent but that should change soon.
- The Cubs are still very much in on Cuban outfielder Jorge Soler as well.
- Believe it or not Chase Headley (my favorite target this offseason) is still on the Cubs radar. He is the most coveted and likely to be dealt by the Padres.
- The Red Sox, Rangers, Angels, and Royals all have interest in Carlos Marmol.
- It is hard to determine what is true or false with the conflicting reports out there so I will defer you to a site that has more patience that I do on the Fielder front. Bleacher Nation has an “Obsessive Prince Fielder Watch” found here.
- The Cubs maybe waiting on Darvish before actually engaging in on talks with pitchers like Rich Hill, Joe Saunders, and Tim Wakefield.
- The Cubs maybe also be waiting on Darvish to make moves in general with all the smoke and no fire the past week.
- Want two other names the Cubs are interested in? Omar Vizquel and Wilson Betemit. The Cubs view both these players in the utility role because they are good defensively; can play multiple positions well, and in the case of a great clubhouse guy and mentor Vizquel provides those intangibles.

Until Next Time..

Rumors Going UP and DOWN...

2011-12-15T16:09:00.000-06:00

Rumors have slowed down for the Cubs but there are some still out there so let’s take a look-
- Multiple reports are saying the Cubs are interested in CoCo Crisp. If that deal is made my source says look for Byrd or Soriano to be heading out the door.
- The Cubs are one of 10 teams interested in Luke Scott. The Cubs view him as a bench player and nothing more.
- The Cubs did in fact bid on Yu Darvish and depending on what you websites you visit depends on who they thing won the bid. I have seen the M’s, Blue Jays, and Cubs all as rumored to win the bid. One source says the Darvish high bid was REALLY high so we will have to see.
- The Cubs remain interested in lefty Joe Saunders and have talks with his representatives. A two year deal worth around $14M-$17M sounds about right.
- The Cubs do have some interested in a reunion with Rich Hill.
- If you have not heard the Aramis Ramirez Era with the Cubs have officially ended with him signing with the Brewers. Aram was one of my favorite players on the Cubs until last season when I realized how selfish of a player he is. I am thankful for his years as a Chicago Cub but I am glad the Cubs are moving in a new direction.
- Matt Garza is now rumored to be in line for a possible extension according to reports. So it sounds like he will either get an extension or be traded.
- The Cubs have offered contracts to all their arbitration eligible except Koyie Hill who is now a free agent. Thank goodness.
- More talk about Jason Varitek has come up in respect to the Cubs backup catcher position. At Hot Stove Cubbies we mentioned this 3 weeks ago.
- The talk with the Cubs and Prince Fielder is increasing of late. It is hard to judge is there is movement on that front but a late report last night suggested Boras is seeking a 10 year deal for Fielder. I am betting the Cubs don’t go beyond 6 for him.
- The Cubs are still very much interested in Kendry Morales who was tendered a contract. But his asking price is way too high for a guy that has not played baseball in 2 years.
- The Cubs are also very much interested in Ike Davis but his asking price is “unreasonable” according to a source close to the Cubs. It sounds like the Mets would rather hold onto Davis.
- The Cubs took a nice step forward in improving Wrigley and the area around it by purchasing the land across from the field occupied by McDonalds. They will keep the McDonalds in that location but will use the rest as an entertainment project.
- David Kaplan feels a 5 year deal worth $25M a year and a 6th option year would be enough to get Prince on the north side. I think that is what the Cubs are offering but I am not sure Prince would jump at that especially if an American League team is offering 7 to 8 years.
- Peter Gammons comes out swinging by saying the Cubs are willing to pay 15 million of the 18 million a year left on Soriano contract to get him traded. I honestly say I can see that getting an American League team interested.
- Gammons also says a Zambrano trade might happen in the next couple of weeks and speculates that the Marlins is the likely landing spot.
- Of course there is a conflicting report with Gammons that says Z might be more likely to stay with the Cubs than go.
- The Cubs have some interest in veteran knuckle-baller Tim Wakefield. I like that idea!
- The Cubs are still very much in on several International free agents like Cespedes, Chen, and Soler.
-The Cubs are interested in a sign and trade with the Yankees for SS Hiroyuki Nakajima. He is a 29 year old right-handed hitter with great number in Japan. He has never hit below .300, his lowest OBP is .361, averages about 16 SB a year, and has hit over 20 homeruns the past 3 years. Definitely a guy I could see the Cubs interested in.. Whether it is a nice bench player or even starter at 2nd if he can produce similar numbers to what he did in Japan.
Until Next Time..

3 Way the Cubs Way!

2011-12-10T15:04:00.002-06:00

With the numerous trade and free agency rumors surrounding the Cubs I am going to try to link some together that not only maximizes value for all teams involved but also fulfills the direction Theo and Co. are going. I will use the information obtained by rumors sites, radio, and of course my sources. This trade scenario is not a rumor by any means, I am just trying to link several rumors together in the form of one trade so here we go!

First off the rumors and news-

Cubs: They need an upgrade at 1st base but according to Theo it cannot jeopardize what they are doing for the future. The Cubs have been linked to just about everyone but Ike Davis, Kendry Morales, Prince Fielder, Mitch Moreland, among others have been talked about a lot. Now the Cubs could give up youth to get some of these players or they could dangle several of their valuable pieces like Carlos Marmol, Carlos Zambrano, Geovany Soto, or even Matt Garza to obtain a first baseman. The Cubs are also looking to get younger in the rotation as well which is why it is important to get pitching in a potential deal.

Rangers: The Rangers may have just saw their division hopes fade with the Angels signing Pujols and their former ace C.J. Wilson. Now it is rumored that the Rangers are wanting to make a splash of their own. The Rangers have been linked to Matt Garza since last season when they tried to acquire him before the Cubs did. The Cubs and Rangers have talked about a Garza trade but they said the price is too steep. The price may have been too steep before the Angels signed both Wilson and Pujols but now they are in a different position which could really favor the team dealing with them. The Rangers are reportedly going to be big players on Fielder as well in fact most think Prince likely destination is Texas. Now for the Rangers to land Prince they could shed salary but they may not be necessary according to sources close to Nolan Ryan. One thing to note is the Rangers farm system is good and they have great depth in several areas including middle infield and pitching so dealing young players in that area of the field is easier than lets say catcher.

Mets: The Mets feel they will not be relevant for at least another 2 years according to some sources. Many media outlets are reporting the Mets are putting all their players on the market with exception to David Wright. One player that could fetch several young prospects is Ike Davis which is why the Cubs and Mets have talked about him. Now the price of Ike Davis is about as steep as Garza so the Cubs would need to acquire some peices through another trade to get Ike. The Mets are looking for infield help and pitching so that is likely what they would ask for in return for Davis.

The deal-

Cubs get: Ike Davis, Alex Ogando, and Martin Perez
Rangers get: Matt Garza, Carlos Marmol, and Jonathan Niese
Mets get: Jurickson Profar, Mitch Moreland, Josh Vitters, and Trey McNutt

What it takes-

Cubs: The Cubs have to get rid of some of their excess in the farm to get some top prospects in return to help them in the very near future. Giving up ML ready pitchers Garza and Marmol do clear up about $15M this season and at least $10M next season by dealing both pitchers. The Cubs are looking ahead and both Marmol and Garza are likely to be gone in 2 years when they elect free agency. The Cubs also are giving up two young prospects in the deal with Josh Vitters and Trey McNutt. Vitters really does not fit the philosphy of the new Theo era with good defense. McNutt is a player you have to give up to get the quaility you are getting in return. Josh Vitters was rated the #70 best prospect in baseball in 2010 but has sense dropped out of that discussion. Trey McNutt is ranked the 48th best prospect in baseball in 2011.

Rangers: Like I said in the opening now that the Angels have put pressure on the Rangers look for them to overpay some for the players they want. The Rangers give up two good pieces from their ML roster in Mitch Moreland and Alexi Ogando. Both are valuable pieces to the team but in the big picture they are expendable because of what they get in return. The Rangers also give up their future all-star SS Jurickson Profar who ranks in the top 10 prospects of 2012. Martin Perez is also dealt and is in the top 25 best prospects of 2012. The Rangers give up a lot but it is on par with what the Cubs had to give up to get Garza.

Mets: The Mets give up only two players but they could hold more value than some of the players that the Cubs and Rangers give up because Niese is not arbitration eligible until next season and won't be a free agent until 2016 and is only 25. Ike Davis is also not eligible for arbitration until next season and won't be a free agent until 2017. Ike is only 24 years old. Those are two very valuable pieces and worth what they received when you break it down.

Now what they receive-

Cubs: The Cubs get their first baseman of the future that is only 24 years old and Major League tested and ready. There is only a once in a great while opportunity you get a player that is under 25, has had success, and is not even arbitration eligible yet.

The Cubs also get a guy who is a young 28 years old (just over a season in the ML) and won't be arbitration eligible until 2014 and won't be ready to leave for FA until 2017. Ogando has electric stuff and is smart beyond his years.

The last guy the Cubs get for their package of players is Martin Perez. This guy has been compared to Johan Santana and rightfully so. He is only 20 years old and pitching for Texas' AAA affiliate. Projected as a number 1 or 2 starter in the Bigs he has great movement and command on his pitches. This player could start in Chicago next season if this trade were to happen.

Rangers: The Rangers just put themselves back in the drivers seat by adding Matt Garza to their rotation and Carlos Marmol to their already deep bullpen. Marmol provides insurance for Joe Nathan and would a nice 1/2 punch. The Rangers rotation is already good but got even better by adding a 25 year old lefty in Niese. When you have Garza and Niese back to back it is hard not to be worried if you are an AL west team.

Another thing that should be noted about the Rangers is I am assuming they will land Fielder to replace Moreland at 1st which makes this trade look even better for the Rangers.

Mets: After seeing Jose Reyes leave; the Mets will stop licking their wounds and start making their team look a lot better for the future. The Mets gave up two very talented players but would likely not get the talent they did trading them in separate deals. The Mets get their next Jose Reyes (Profar maybe better) in Jurickson Profar. A 18 year old that is in the top 10 best prospects in baseball on every list published.

Since the Mets have no immediate replacement for Ike Davis at first they get a more experienced older lefty bat in Mitch Moreland. He is only 26 years old and not arbitration eligible until 2014.

The two players they receive from the Cubs is Trey McNutt who is their top prospect pitcher and their top 3rd base prospect Josh Vitters who will likely replace David Wright when his contract expires.

Conclusion-

Each team gives up quality talent but in the end all the players each team trades and receives achieves their ultimate goal and philosophy.

So did I hit the mark or miss it completely? Who is getting the better deal? Or is it fair? Feel free to comment or tweet me @HotStoveCubbies.

Until Next Time...

Stewart, Non-Tender, Darvish, and more...

2011-12-09T15:21:00.003-06:00

- The Cubs traded D.J. LeMahieu and Tyler Colvin to the Rockies for Casey Weathers and Ian Stewart. Stewart is arbitration eligible so the Rockies are likely to save $2.6M in the deal. The Cubs get there much needed third baseman. I am not as mad as yesterday about the deal but I just don't understand giving up LeMahieu and losing Ryan Flaherty to the Rule 5 draft.

- Stewart is labeled as the starting 3rd baseman right now according to Jed Hoyer. He says they did not give up what they did to have him as a atilt player.

- The Cubs are likely waiting for the Non-Tender deadline to pass before making anymore deals. Rumor has it that Kendry Morales maybe non-tendered in which case the Cubs will sign him.

- The only possible position players I see the Cubs looking at is James Loney and Kendry Morales. Pitching wise there are several players they should look at to add depth like Andrew Miller, Mike Pelfrey, Chris Volstad, Joe Saunders, Andy Sonnanstine, Taylor Buckholtz, and Rich Hill.

- Cubs not too serious about Kuroda.

- The Cubs do have interest in Mark Trumbo but he may not be available.

- We heard earlier today that there have been several talks about the Mets young lefty 1st baseman Ike Davis. A deal could be done fast but both the Mets and Cubs will wait until the Non-tender deadline on Monday before discussing more. You can find the stats for Ike Davis here.

- Cubs have two big sticking points with Prince Fielder. Him wanting at least 7 years and a no-trade clause.

- The Cubs have claimed Jeff Bianchi off of waivers from the Royals. Find more on him here. Looks like he is a valuable replacement for LeMahieu although no real ML experience.

Until Next Time..

Last Day of Winter Meeting Rumors, News, and Notes...

2011-12-08T16:57:00.003-06:00

- I first want to say goodbye to Cub killer Albert Pujols as he packs his bags and heads to the West Coast after signing a 10 year $254M deal with the Angels. There is nothing I like more than the cries of angry redbirds about how things are not fair. My answer to you is you guys is your management should have signed him to an extension years ago and never signed Matt Holliday to that horrible 7 year $120M deal. You bid against yourself when you got Holliday and that cost you Pujols.
- The Cubs have taken Ricky Alvarez Ricky Alvarez and Lendry Castillo Lendry Castillo
- The Rangers and Angels are very interested in Matt Garza. The Angels are also interested in Carlos Marmol.
- Yu Darvish was posted today and will go through the 4 day bidding process. The Cubs are expected to be big time bidders on Darvish. We should know by Tuesday who won the bid.
- The Cubs are still in on Ian Stewart but also still like Chase Headley. We will likely hear more of these two in the up and coming weeks.
- The Marlins remain interested in Carlos Zambrano. I am hearing the Cubs will probably pick up a pitcher before trading their depth away unless they get a pitcher in return for their pitcher. I hope that makes sense.
- The Cubs are expected to go hard after 28 year old oft-injured, switch-hitting 1st baseman Kendry Morales and/or 25 year old Mark Trumbo. It should be noted that Trumbo could be a candidate for 3rd base because the Angel scouts are sure he would do well at 3rd and could be the starting 3rd baseman next season for the Halos if not dealt.
- The Cubs are still in on Prince Fielder regardless of what Peter Gammons says. Gammons said the Cubs do not have money to spend on Fielder which makes no sense because they plan on bidding on Darvish ($40+M), submitted an offer to Pujols (more $ than Fielder is asking for), and are in on Cespedes (looking for a 5 year deal $60M). Gammons needs to check his sources. One thing that the Cubs are up against in Fielder is the other AL west teams. The Mariners are increasing their deal to Fielder to 7 years $160M according to two different sources of mine. Another source says he expects the Cubs up their pursuit and try to sign him quickly. The Rangers are also actively in on Fielder.
- The Cards are not in on Fielder but will instead upgrade SS and outfield. They are targeting Rollins (I see him signing with Philly) and Beltran. They plan on using Berkman at 1st. Pujols really made the Cards a weaker team.
- The Cubs were one of the four finalists for Pujols according to sources.
- If you don’t follow me on Twitter you should because I tweeted this hours ago: This is my trade idea- Garza, Marmol, Vitters, and McNutt to the Angels for Morales, Trumbo, Trout, and 2 top pitching prospects. I may be dreaming but there is tremendous value for both teams going both ways. The Cubs could use Morales at 1st, Trumbo at 3rd, and Trout in RF.
- Levine says the Cubs are involved in the International market as well stating they have great interest in Yoenis Cespedes, Jorge Soler, and Geraldo Concepcion. We have heard about the first two but not a lot on Concepcion which I have a hard time finding anything on him.

Until Next Time..

WInter Meetings Day 3- Cubs Talk Up but Moves Are Not

2011-12-07T20:51:00.002-06:00

- Depending on what reports you read the Cubs are in on Prince Fielder. The latest suggest Fielder is looking for a Ryan Howard type deal 5/$125M which I think is reasonable and the Cubs need to offer soon.

- Seattle and the Marlins are not in on Fielder.

- The fish have pulled their offer from Pujols but he still has two 10/$200M+ deal out there but the Cubs are not one of those teams.

- Theo says the Cubs are looking toward building the future and is concentrating on smaller moves.

- The Cubs still like Stewart from the Rockies but the Rox are asking for LeMahieu which the Cubs rightfully turned down.

- The Marmol for Headley rumors are buried because the Padres acquired Street from the Rockies.

- The Pirates have joined the Stewart derby.

- The Cubs are still very much interested in a number of players including Chase Headley but are awaiting the Pujols decision.

- The Mets are shopping just about everyone but officially they are shopping Jonathon Niese and Ike Davis. Niese name has not came up on the radar for the Cubs yet but they should be interested in the lefty. One name that the Cubs are considering and in talks with the Mets on is Ike Davis. Davis is 24 years old, solid defensively at 1st base, a lefty bat, and is not even arbitration eligible yet. The Mets are looking to get a number of young players for Davis and the Cubs could offer Vitters, Trey McNutt, Chris Carpenter, Andrew Cashner, or even Matt Szczur.

- The Cubs are interested in Pujols but on a 5 year deal. The Cubs are not the mystery team offering 10 years.

- Pena and Ramirez will not accept arbitration.

- The Braves have called the Cubs on Darwin Barney according to a source.

- Still reports out there that the Cubs are interested in Kuroda because he is seeking a short-term high annual salary deal.

- All signs point to Wood signing a deal with the Cubs. Likely to be more than last year's super discount.

- Jed Hoyer says Fielder reports are "overblown." I did not expect him to say anything more than that.

- Zambrano is still in play for Marlins but many expect Z to start the season with the Cubs.

- Ken Davidoff says a friend of Prince Fielders says the Cubs really interest him. I am sure he can put up big numbers hitting in Wrigley for half a season.

That is it for today hopefully things start heating up more move wise!

Winter Meetings Day 2: Late Afternoon Update

2011-12-06T15:56:00.002-06:00

Here is a late afternoon update to summarize what happened late last night until now. Here we go-

- The Cubs are currently shopping Soriano to the O’s as only a salary dump. The Cubs are expected to eat 75% or more of this contract to get a deal done. The Cubs would likely just receive a PTBNL.
- Numerous reports suggested the Cubs made an offer to Pujols with just one (Carrie Muskat) denying those reports. I then heard two of my sources say an offer was made just disagreeing on the amount. One source said the Cubs offered 5 years with an option for 6 at $165M over the life of the contract while the other stats an offer of 5 years $145M has been offered. That same source also stated he expects the Marlins to go as high as 10 years $260M with a NTC for Pujols. That is not to far off from reports of 10 years $220M with a NTC.
- The Angels and Cubs are the most active on Ian Stewart according to Jon Morosi.
- The Chicago Cubs plan on making an offer to Prince Fielder in today’s meeting. According to this source the Cubs could go as high as 6 years with a 7th option year. While other reports suggest the Cubs prefer Fielder over Pujols and would like to sign Fielder at less years but higher annual salary. One report says 5 years $160M could be an offer the Cubs would submit to Boras.
- Paul Sullivan says if Pujols lands in Miami that will cause the Fish to deal Gaby Sanchez in which the Cubs would have great interest in because he fits in their long-term plans. I see Gaby more as a guy that fits now with a low salary and has 3 arbitration years left which could take us up to the Vogelbach era.
- There are rumors of a possible opt out clause in play for Fielder and Pujols which would give the Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers, and Cubs a chance to land them in 2-4 years.
- Phil Rogers is saying the Pujols situation IS GOING TO BE DECIDED in the next 36 hours. I would have to agree especially with reports that the Marlins have offered 10 years and the Cardinals will have a chance to submit their bid before a decision is made; it is a make or break for both teams.
- Bleacher Nation is saying one of his sources has been swayed from Garza “probably not” going to be traded to “probably.” Peter Gammons even thinks he will be eventually traded.
- Bruce Levine names James Russell as a possible target for the Padres for Headley. Sounds good to me.
- The Cubs are getting several calls on two players recently; Darwin Barney and Randy Wells.
- Epstein says he is interested in bringing back Rodrigo Lopez but maybe he is just kidding because I just don’t see why with all the other pitchers on the market.
- Carlos Pena will not accept arbitration according to numerous sources.
- The Marlins are really concentration on Pujols but that did not stop them by meeting with the Cubs about Carlos Zambrano. The Marlins wanted to know the asking price on Z. I would take Christian Yelich! Actually I would trade him just for salary relief at this time.
- The Cubs are cooling on Stewart and the Rockies asking price.
- The suitors for Fielder are dwindling. The known are the Cubs, Mariners, Blue Jays, and Brewers.
- The Cubs are reluctant to give Fielder 7 years like he is seeking. Mariners may go 7 to get him which makes sense since he could DH later in deal.
- Sveum said they have not talked to Prince which is likely true because all talks have been with Boras.

Until Next Time..

Until Next Time...

Day 1: Winter Meetings Rumor Roundup

2011-12-05T20:33:00.002-06:00

Lets take a look at the rumors swirling around Cubland in the first day and a half of the Winter Meetings-

- Congrats to Ron Santo for taking his rightful place in the Hall of Fame. It is a shame that it happened after his passing but I am sure he is clicking his heels in the ballpark in the sky.

- The Chicago Cubs will not trade Garza for anything less than what the Brewers gave up for Grienke. That is a good package and the Cubs should not settle for anything less.

- The rumors around the Cubs interest in Kuroda are legit until you heard the asking price of 2 years 30 million. Like they say on SportsCenter "Com' on Man!"

- The Cubs are still interested in Stewart but look at him as a back-up plan to Headley.

- The Rockies like Colvin for Stewart which is understandable but remember Stewart is a non-tender candidate.

- The Cubs called the Marlins on Hanley Ramirez but his asking price was way too high. If the Cubs acquired Ramirez they would have played him at 2nd.

- BleacherNation stated on Twitter (@BleacherNation) that the Cubs are trying to get Headley and Kyle Blanks in the same deal. If Theo and Co. can pull that off then they are even more smarter than I think.

- MLBTR says the Cubs are looking at Pujols but want to offer him higher annual salary with less years. Like maybe 5 years $150M?

- The Cubs have called the Mets on Wright but his asking price was "offensive" according to a Cubs source.

- The Padres are very interested in moving Headley, Hudson, and/or Bartlett. There is a rumor out there the Padres want to attach Hudson with Headley in a move to the Cubs. If that happens the Cubs may only have to give up Marmol and a minor leaguer. Which would be huge. I would give up Carlos Marmol, Josh Vitters, and Tyler Colvin for Orlando Hudson, Kyle Blanks, and Chase Headley.

- The Chicago Cubs are getting teams calling them on Soriano, mostly AL squads. They would like the Cubs to pick up the bulk of the money owed ($54M). I would pay 40+ to get a deal done if I was Jed and Theo.

- There is some Placido Polanco talk because the Phillies are interested in signing Aramis Ramirez so naturally Polanco has been linked to the Cubs. I do not see a fit with so many other 3rd baseman on the market via trade.

- The Cubs have met with Dan Lozano today. He is Albert Pujols agent and it just so happens he represents Rodrigo Lopez. Muskat says the Cubs are interested in bringing back Lopez and I ask WHY!?!?!

- Craig Counsell is waiting to see if he gets any offers before retiring. The Cubs would like him to be a coach.

- The Cubs really like Fielder but will not go over 6 guaranteed years for him.

- The Cubs have expressed interest in Marlins 22 year old 3rd base prospect Matt Dominguez. He is a great defender but has not done well in the minors. He is a career .255 hitter with .325 OBP in the minors but he is playing above his age. He moved from High A to AAA last year at the age of 21.

- Rosenthal and Morosi say the Cubs are in on C.J. Wilson. With the Nationals offering a 6th year I do not see the Cubs as a fit.

- I just got an interesting name in the email I received from a source of mine. This source says the Cubs have contacted the Orioles about 3rd base prospect Josh Bell. He did have a cup of coffee in the majors so it is hard to judge him there so here is his minor league stats. I put him in the same category as Matt Dominguez.

I am sure there will be more rumors come out as the night goes on. So check me out on Twitter @HotStoveCubbies for the latest rumors and news.

Until Next Time...

Lets Get Ready To Rumble, Winter Meetings Style!

2011-12-04T09:34:00.006-06:00

The Winter Meetings have not even started yet but the rumors are flying around. Lets get caught up over a busy weekend.

- It was first reported that the Rockies wanted DeWitt for Stewart. Of course that would have been a really good trade for the Cubs which is why the Rockies asked for Colvin and a prospect instead. I say not thanks!

- Speaking of third baseman. I have been hearing from numerous sites and my sources that Chase Headley is a top target for the Cubs during the Winter Meeting. One source says he would be shocked not to see Headley make his way to the Cubs by next week.

- A player the Padres want in return for Headley, Carlos Marmol.

- The Padres and Red Sox are the most active in pursing Carlos Marmol.

- The Cubs like Mark Burhle but not his asking price of 4 years $50M.

- Cubs did lose out on Capuano to the Dodgers but 2 years $10M is over paying for a guy like Capuano.

- Congrats to Chris Bosio to landing the Chicago Cubs pitching coach position.

- OK, so the Brewers offered Prince 6/120! The Cubs should automatically offer 5 years with a 6th option year for $160M.

- If the Cubs were to trade for Justin Upton then they would have to send Carlos Marmol, one of Matt Szczur and Trey McNutt, and an top 10 Cubs prospect.

- The Cubs are active talks with lefties Wei-Yan Chen and Tsuyoshi Wada. Both became unrestricted FA on Thursday. It is reported that the Cubs like Chen better than Wada because of his age (26 years old) and price (4 years $20M).

- Yu Darvish is expected to be posted during or shortly after the meetings. The Cubs are expected to bid on the young righty.

- If the Cubs want to deal Soriano for another bad contract, as I reported on twitter some guys he could be dealt for like Chone Figgins, Barry Zito, Adam Dunn, Jason Bay, Carl Crawford, Dice K, Vernon Wells. Here are some other possibilities Ted Lilly, Travis Hafner, Hanley Ramirez (especially if the fish land Jose Reyes), Nick Markakis, Mark Reynolds, Brian Roberts, Justin Morneau, Jake Peavy, and A.J. Burnett. Now some of these players are making less than Soriano and some are making more so money will likely be exchanging hands as well. Not to mention some of these players would require more than just Soriano to land in the case of Nick Markakis, Travis Hafner, Hanley Ramirez, and others. I just wanted to give everyone an idea of players and teams the Cubs could match up well with in a bad contract trade including Soriano.

- Monday morning could have great significance for the Chicago Cubs, the fans, and the Santo family. That is likely when they will learn whether Ron Santo will be inducted into his rightful place in the Hall of Fame. Santo needs 12 of 16 votes to be inducted by the Golden Era Committee which meets every three years and usually votes on managers, umpires, executives, and players who had a career impact on the game from 1942 to 1972. Bruce Levine reported yesterday that he talked to a industry source that says Santo's chances of being inducted are "excellent." I do want to note than this if the first year Santo has been on the Golden Era Committee ballot. He was passed over in past years by the stingy Veteran Committee lead by anti-Cub and anti-Santo leader Joe Morgan. If you can't tell I have no respect for Joe Morgan.

- Garza rumors are swirling but the is not letting it bother him. He did say he would like to sign an extenstion with the Cubs though.

- The Theo Epstein compensation maybe settled during the Rule 5 draft according to sources.

Keep in touch with the latest breaking news and rumors by following me on twitter @HotStoveCubbies and of course look at more in depth coverage of the Cubs news and rumor wise here on Hot Stove Cubbies.

A Lot of Cubs Talk....

2011-12-01T14:27:00.002-06:00

- Sources out of St. Louis said the Cubs have serious interest in Albert Pujols. Now I am still on the fence about Pujols unless he lands with the Cubs with a 5 year deal. This could be used to up the price on Pujols and hurt rival teams.

- Soriano is likely to be traded at the Winter Meetings according to a source of mine. He says that numerous lower tier AL teams are in on Soriano and the Cubs are "now" more willing to kick in cash than last year.

- The Cubs are looking to possibly add Chris Capuano for depth to the rotation. It is unlikely he would give a spot by signing a contract. He is a mid risk/mid reward pitcher and they type of guy you value as depth on your team.

- Theo Epstein says he has the best left-handed reliever in baseball and he will not move him in the rotation or much less to another team.

- Theo views are Garza are mixed because he says Garza is the type of guy he would like to build around but in return he could get a lot to build for the future.

- I will be the first to report this I am sure. The Mets have called the Cubs about Geovany Soto and the Mets may have moved on from Josh Thole or want a platoon with him according a source.

- Theo said he would like to add a power left-handed bat but is not going to force anything.

- The signing of DeJesus does not really affect Jackson according to Epstein. That is very telling.

- Opposing GMs think the Cubs trading Garza makes sense according to Jon Heyman of SI.

- Theo says starting pitching is the Cubs #1 priority at the Winter Meetings which starts Monday.

- Theo wants to build with a young core according to many media outlets. That is why Cespedes, Justin Upton, and Chase Headley are all running hot on the rumor mill. Headley is the oldest at 27.

- Building a young core and for the future could be a precursor to many things like getting rid of Byrd, Soriano, Zambrano, and others. It also could signal an interest in Fielder. Signing him to a long-term deal would build toward the future and enable a young foundation because he is only 27 years old.

- The Cubs have talked to the agents of Pujols and Fielder but many of my sources stat the interest in Pujols is to raise up the price and Fielder's interest is legitimate.

- Theo Epstein makes it sound like Brett Jackson will get some more time in AAA but a lot can change. He also says you will not see him too much in the Winter Meetings lobby next week.

- I think if the Cubs were to build for the future ideally it would signing Prince Fielder and Yoenis Cespedes; trading Soriano, Byrd, Wells, Soto, and Zambrano; trade for Chase Headley and Orlando Hudson; and acquiring a young package of players for Matt Garza and Carlos Marmol to build up the farm system. That would be my ideal moves towards the future of course with some filler moves in there as well by adding to the bench and the most important thing; getting pitching. Check out this nice lineup-

1. Brett Jackson CF
2. Orlando Hudson 2b
3. Yoenis Cespedes LF
4. Prince Fielder 1st
5. Starlin Castro SS
6. Chase Headley 3rd
7. Welington Castillo or Steve Clevenger C (or a catcher through trade)
8. David DeJesus RF
9. Pitcher

I got to say I really like it a really balanced as well!

Until Next Time…

DeJesus Signs, Ricketts Talks, and Other Juicy Tidbits

2011-11-30T19:36:00.003-06:00

- The Cubs have signed David DeJesus to a 2 year deal with an option for 2014. David will make $4.25M in 2012 and 2013 while having an option of $6.5M for 2014 with a $1.5M buyout.
- Jed Hoyer says DeJesus will likely be the starting RF for the Cubs next season. He also stats DeJesus is an asset to the team direction of getting better defensively, taking more pitches, and running the bases better.
- Like I tweeted before @HotStoveCubbies DeJesus is a cheaper and younger Fukudome. Although he will not strike out as much as Fukudome did. The most he has ever struck out was in 2009 when he got punch out 87 times in 627 PA.
- Hoyer says they have not given up on Tyler Colvin but he has to earn his spot on the team.
- I am hearing Tyler Colvin maybe the compensation for Boston for the Cubs getting Epstein.
- One source tells me this move was made because the Cubs want finalize a deal to send Soriano to an AL team during the winter meetings. Theo and Co. wanted to be sure to sign DeJesus before making that trade.
- The Pirates are very interested in Geovany Soto. The Angels were until the made a deal for Chris Iannetta. The Angels sent Chatwood to the Rockies for Iannetta and boy would I have liked Chatwood in a Cubs uniform.
- Jason Varitek and Kerry Wood signing with the Cubs could happen very soon.
- Hoyer has been in talks with Erik Bedard's agent but then again he has been in talks with a lot of agents.
- Bruce Levine says a good piece to pick up for Garza through Texas would be Alex Ogando. I would agree with that!
- Chase Headley is the Cubs top choice for taking over 3rd next year. The Padres still like the idea of Marmol as compensation.
- The Cubs may look to Justin Upton if they cannot land Cespedes. The Dbacks could ask for Garza and/or Marmol for Upton but Upton alone is not enough for Garza. Marmol is another story. Upton is only 24 years old, a great defender, and he hit .289 with 31 homers, 88 RBI, and 21 SB last season. He makes $6.75M in 2012, $9.75M in 2013, $14.25M in 2014, and $14.5M so he is affordable for the production.
- BleacherNation has a great write up interview with MLBTR.com’s Tim Dierkes.
- ESPNCHicago has Tom Ricketts speaking on free agency and much more. A must read!

Until Next Time..

A Quick Cubs News Update!

2011-11-29T14:46:00.002-06:00

- Greg Maddux will not be rejoining the Cubs. He is likely to help out with his brother in Texas.
- The Cubs have named Jamie Quirk as bench coach.
- Cubs resign Crane Kenney on the baseball buisness side of things.
- Like promised BleacherNation has the case against Prince Fielder.

Until Next Time...

The Rumors are Heating Up!

2011-11-29T14:45:00.000-06:00

Jim Bowden says the Cubs have been very aggressive with a wide range of free agents and trade talks.
- The Cubs will be listening on everyone according to numerous sources but most notably Matt Garza, Carlos Marmol, Geovany Soto, and Randy Wells.
- David Kaplan says the Cubs are “kicking the tires” on free agent outfielder David DeJesus. I just don’t see the need unless numerous moves are made in the outfield.
- The Cubs are interested in Ian Stewart and Chase Headley for their 3rd base vacancy. Both would be trade options although Ian Stewart would probably cost a mid-level prospect while the Padres could ask for Marmol for Headley.
- Matt Garza is gaining trade momentum for a number of teams but most notably is the Rangers, Red Sox, Yankees, and even the Indians.
- I am hearing the Indians want both Marmol and Garza. And they could be dangling Michael Brantley, Justin Masterson, and/or Carlos Santana. Getting Santana and Masterson would be ideal and a must for both Marmol and Garza.
- Pena and Ramirez are expected to decline arbitration.
- The Cubs are very much in on Prince Fielder and Albert Pujols according to many media outlets. The new CBA is effecting how the Cubs approach the off-season and could force the Cubs to spend an extra 20 million on payroll for next year. Thus it could force their hand in getting a big money, big bat 1st baseman for many years. From one source I am hearing the Cubs could be posturing some to drive up the price of their rivals. From another I am hearing the Cubs will not go beyond 6 guaranteed years for both and would likely increase yearly salary in exchange for less years. He even went as far as saying signing Pujols to a 4 year 160 million dollar contract with an option is not out of the realm of possibility. I see it as unlikely to pay someone near 40 million a season but I do trust in Theo’s judgment.
- A couple of pieces Theo and Co. really like and probably won’t deal are Sean Marshall, Starlin Castro, and Andrew Cashner.
- The Cubs will still be players on Yu Darvish if he is posted.
- Yoenis Cespedes is still a big target for the Cubs as well. The Cubs brass really like what they saw in the Dom. Rep.
- Ken Rosenthal has an update in regards to Pujols and Fielder saying the Cubs are more willing to go long term with a contract with Pujols than Fielder because Pujols is a better defender. He also says Fielder’s body is a concern which is why the Cubs would rather go short-term high dollar with him rather than Pujols. Now this contradicts what I am hearing and posted earlier in the post. I find it interesting they are willing to go longer for a guy who is 31 instead of a guy who is 27.
- Rosenthal has been all over today saying that several teams are “kicking the tires” on Alfonso Soriano but the teams expect the Cubs to pay a large portion of his contract. I am hearing 80% will have to be paid for the Cubs trade talks to start moving further along.
- BleacherNation has the case for signing Prince Fielder and it is a great read. They will have the case for not signing him later which I will post as well.
- Theo and Co. have been really quiet but leaks still happen maybe even on purpose. I am still amazed at the difference in the approach of the old regime and the new. Seems like my sources have been more active and right this off-season than most.
- Ron Santo will be up for the Hall of Fame once again but this time by the special ballot. We all will be pulling for Santo to be finally inducted.
- Muskat chimes in and says we will hear more about the coaching staff this week.
- Three newer names that are starting to buzz around trade talk in respect to the Cubs are Kendry Morales, Alex Gordon, and Mitch Moreland.

Pre-Thanksgiving Rumor Stuffed Turkey

2011-11-23T17:20:00.001-06:00

- The Angels have interest in both Carlos Marmol and Geovany Soto according to BleacherNation.com. BleachNation's source says the Cubs have an interest in Hank Conger but that would not be the centerpiece of a possible package.
- In addition to that rumor I am hearing the Angels are one of many teams that have interest in Matt Garza.
- This is not a rumor but a thought I have. If the Angels do have legit interest in Marmol, Soto, and Garza I say send them all three and we will take a package of Kendry Morales, Mike Trout, Hank Conger, and two of Trevor Reckling, Garrett Richards, Fabio Martinez, and/or Daniel Tillman
- If the Cubs got that package then they should just release Soriano and sign Cespedes. An outfield of Trout, Jackson, and Cespedes would be amazing.
- HotStoveCubbies has also learned that the Royals have had multiple conversations about Matt Garza and Alex Gordon. Of course the Cubs would need more than just Alex Gordon but he would likely highlight the package.

Pitching Coach, Garza, Cespedes, Fielder, and more

2011-11-22T17:17:00.002-06:00

- Do you want to know more on the new CBA agreement? Check out BleacherNation .
- There is a rumor out there that indicates the Red Sox would like Tyler Colvin as compensation. I think that is more reasonable but I do not see that happening.
- Rudy Jaramillo will be back as the hitting coach under Dale Sveum next season. Sveum is also rumored to be bringing back friend Pat Listach and bullpen coach Lester Strode.
- Bobby Dernier and Ivan DeJesus will not be back and Mark Riggins is in question.
- I am still hearing Jim Hickey of the Tampa Bay Rays and Rick Kranitz Rick Kranitz of the Brewers are the favorites to land the pitching coach position on the Cubs.
- Lots of talk around Matt Garza including that the Rangers, Red Sox, and Yankees have all contacted the Cubs about him. New developments in the story suggest they may move him to not only build for the future but to get rid of the past. A rival exec told me that Theo and Co. are trying to include Carlos Zambrano and/or Soriano in a deal with Garza. The Cubs want to get prospects and get rid of one or both of Z and Soriano.
- It is unknown whether the Yu Darvish will be posted this year but the Cubs are expected to be players if he does.
- Hey folks, Yoenis Cespedes is a real target for Theo and Co. This all started with Jason McLeod going down to work out Cespedes and now Jed Hoyer and Theo Epstein are in the Dominican meeting with him and one of his advisors. HotStoveCubbies has learned that Theo and Jed may have made or will make an offer to Cespedes before leaving the Dom. Rep.
- It looks like Sizemore will likely sign with the Indians and Mark Buehrle chances of coming to the Cubs are dwindling because of his asking price.

Here is the latest from Levine’s chat today-

- He expects the Cubs to be players for Cespedes and Darvish but says taxes may be a factor on international free agents.
- He expects the Cubs to be major players for Prince Fielder. If the Cubs could land Fielder, Cespedes, and Darvish they will compete next season for sure.
- Levine confirms Garza is on the trading block and says Texas has a nice system and could fetch the Cubs some top talent. I am hearing Mitch Moreland could be a possible piece.
- He sees the Cubs checking on C.J. Wilson and Mark Buerhle. I think they both will price themselves out of the Cubs range.
- Levine says Chris Boscio and Ed Seadar are possibilities as a pitching coach and bench coach respectively.
- He says Marmol has great value but most MLB execs look at him as overused.
- LeMahieu could be an option for 3rd next season.
- He does not see Vitters as an option for 3rd next season because of his lack of defense.
- He does not see the Cubs going after Jose Reyes.

Until Next Time…

Sveum New Skipper, Coaching, and Player Notes..

2011-11-18T16:58:00.002-06:00

- Congrats to Dale Sveum to becoming the Chicago Cubs new skipper. Here is some quotes and notes from Jed, Theo, and Dale from the press conference and side meeting with the media-
· Theo says Dale knows the game inside and out and is a great combination of intelligence and instinct which is tough to pull off.
· Theo said he is sincere, direct, comfortable, strong, and respects the game. Dale expects these same qualities from his players.
· Dale says you need to play the game the same everyday, like it is the 7th game of the WS.
· The Cubs need to address bad defense and lack of power but learning to play the right way is most important.
· In regards to the coaching staff it will be a long process but will start today. He also has a list of guys he likes and wants to meet with existing coaches.
· Got the nickname of “Nuts” from his past but it has nothing to do with his lower half and has something to do with something stupid he did.
· In regards to the Cubs the past is the past and you have to try to establish a new winning tradition.
· Statistics are apart of the game now but you cannot totally rely on them.
· My opinion: Dale seems like a very smart, knowledgeable, and cool manager. I expect him to be much stricter on all players’ not just rookies which is different from the previous managers of the Cubs. He is going to bring a different look (just like Theo) to Cubs baseball and it will be a nice and much needed change.
- Early reports were Robin Yount would be a coach on his team but since then Sveum has squashed those reports by saying he won’t.
- I expect Pat Listach and Rudy Jaramillo to stay on staff.
- Mike Maddux pulled out of the manager derby because of family concerns and other issues. Maddux calls Sveum “one of the best baseball people I know.”
- A source told me that Jim Hickey and Rick Kranitz are on the short list of pitching coaches Sveum and Theo & Co. are considering.
- SS Junior Lake will be added to the 40-man roster. Another step in him making the Big League club out of ST.
- The Yankees among other teams have called the Cubs about Matt Garza. One team official says it sounds like it will take a lot of move Garza so a trade is unlikely. While another says if the Yankees include a couple of their top prospects like Montero, Romine, Banuelos, and/or Betances.
- Jason McLeod was in the Dominican Republic this week to see Cuban Star Yoenis Cespedes and things already look good because Theo Epstein along with Jed Hoyer are going to the Dominican to check things out as well. His value is going up because it is now being reported that he may seek 8 years 60 million which is not that bad considering the years you would get him.
- The word now the Cubs brass is using is “revamp the roster” not “rebuild” which could mean some activity is expected.

Until Next Time…

You Want Rumors! You Can't Handle the Rumors!

2011-11-16T16:01:00.002-06:00

- Scott Boras confirms what I said on Saturday via twitter that he is expected to meet with Theo and Co. about Prince Fielder and Carlos Pena this week.
- The Cubs and Red Sox are trying to hammer out a comp. deal and Boston GM Ben Cherington said a trade between the clubs could fill the obligation for both teams.
- Carlos Marmol is being shopped around because of his price and the closer market. The Cubs could get 2 top prospects and a mid-level. The Giants, Dbacks, Red Sox, Blue Jays, Nationals, and Yankees are just a few teams that have interest in Marmol.
- Jed Hoyer said the Cubs are open for business and said they will listen on every player in the organization. Don't get worried; guys like Brett Jackson and Castro will be staying put.
- 4 trade names I am hearing a lot linked to the Cubs are David Wright, Chase Headley, Jon Danks, and Brett Anderson.
- Terry Francona is no longer a candidate for the Cubs position. He says he will not manage in 2012.
- Dale Sveum is the favorite for the Boston Red Sox managerial position and could be named this week.
- Pete Mackanin is no longer a candidate for the Red Sox position and is also unlikely for the Cubs according to one source.
- The two favorites for the Cubs job that I am hearing are Sandy Alomar Jr. and Mike Maddux. Mike Maddux is still addressing family matters otherwise I think he would have been named by now.
- Sandberg unlikely to land a coaching position in the majors according to sources but I think that could change once the Cubs name their manager.
- A source of mine says the Cubs will make an offer to Fielder but it will not be beyond 4-5 years. Fielder and Boras are looking for an 8 year deal worth 200+ million.
- The Cubs added Shiraz Rehman as Assistant GM. You can find out more about him here

- Carlos Zambrano is expected to get a chance to EARN his way back on the team according to Theo Epstein. No word on what he has to do to EARN it.
- I am hearing interest between the Cubs and Sizemore is mutual and the Cubs view him as a possible fit for RF.
- The Cubs are interested in Chone Figgins but only if the M’s take Zambrano and Soriano in a deal. The Cubs would be willing to pay all of Figgins contract and half of Soriano’s to get the deal done according to sources.
- The Cubs so far balk at C.J. Wilson’s asking price of 6 years $100M.
- There will be no formal 2nd interviews by the Cubs just phone calls and possibly one meeting with Tom Ricketts. If you are meeting Tom Ricketts chances are you go the job.
- The Cubs did do a phone interview with DeMarlo Hale and feel he is in the same position as Francona was that they did not need to put him through the ringer like the other candidates.
- A decision on the manager could be announce this weekend at the earliest and I am guessing we will be hearing a press conference announcing the next manager Tuesday.
- The Cubs are considering placing a bid on Yu Darvish. Some say the posting fee could be between $20M and $50M and I can see the Cubs bidding between 20-30 million for him.
- The Cubs and Padres have talked about Headley and Vitters could be apart of the deal but nothing is close according to my source.
- The same source said the Padres have called on Carlos Marmol, Tyler Colvin, and Josh Vitters among others. Obviously taking the Cubs up on the “listening on everyone” report we heard today.
- Jed Hoyer says he would like to move in on the decision making phase this week on a new manager.
- Bruce Chen has a possible offer from the Cubs according to MLBTR

- The Cubs have great interest in Justin Upton and could offer up Marmol in a deal.
- Bruce Levine says the Cubs adding Jason Veritek is not if but when. He also speculates that when he is added Soto will likely be dealt and the Cubs will bring up one of their young catchers to replace Soto and learn under Jason. I like the idea!
- The Cubs have been in constant contact with Mark Buehrle and he could fit in nicely behind Garza in the rotation. He has strong interest from the Yankees, Cards, and Marlins and is commanding a 4 year deal so that could be a sticking point. Not to mention him pitching on the wrong side of town for many years and he is a die hard Cardinal fan.
- Jason McLeod was sent to the Dominican Republic to watch a private workout of Cuban sensation Yoenis Cespedes. He could command 6 years 30+ million dollars.
- Kerry Wood is likely to come back to Chicago and could sign very soon.
- Levine said he saw Francona as the favorite to land the Cubs job… OUCH! I have noticed that the Chicago Media has been really lacking of late in the rumor department and outside sources like Cubbies Crib, Chicago Cubs Online, Bleacher Nation, my site (Hot Stove Cubbies), and others have been leading with breaking news and rumors. Which could be attributed to a lot of things but most notably their source is no longer on the baseball side. Yes, I mean Crane Kenney.
- Bryan LaHair is still considering playing in Japan.
- If Marmol is traded Shark or Cashner could be the closer according to Levine. I also would not count out Marshall or Wood for the position.
- Jason McLeod is scouting 19 years old OF Jorge Soler in the Dominican Republic while he is down there looking at Cespedes.
- The Cubs could be looking at Aaron Harang, Livan Hernandez, and Chris Capuano according to the Sun-Times. I can see Capuano because he is left-handed but the other two do not make sense to me.
- If the Cubs deal Sean Marshall and/or Matt Garza this year it is because they got a “can’t be beat package of prospects.” One rumor stats now a Garza deal would fetch more than what the Cubs gave up getting him. Marshall could fetch one top prospect and one mid-level. For example if the Yankees called on the Cubs about Matt Garza the deal would have to include two of Gary Sanchez, Manny Banuelos, and Jesus Montero plus two mid-level prospects, and a minor leaguer.

Until Next Time…

Quick Hits...

2011-11-12T09:36:00.003-06:00

- The Cubs look set at the current managerial field. They have interviewed Pete Mackanin, Dale Sveum, Mike Maddux, and Sandy Alomar Jr. Alomar is considered a dark horse while Maddux looks like the front runner.

- Maddux and Alomar definitely did the best in their interviews in my opinion.

- There is an outside chance more guys could be interviewed but it is unlikely. The two Boston candidates have likely been removed because of an agreement not to raid their staff.

- Epstein said the Cubs are likely to be very active in the free agent market but that does not mean a ton of moves. He says by the end of it they are likely to sign a free agent or two.

- Theo and Co. are saying the Cubs are a long way from where they want them to be but that does not mean they cannot contend next season.

- Ricketts and Team Theo have the same vision with playing youth and developing the farm system. This could cause a player like Carlos Zambrano to be traded and Soriano to be released.

- The front office brass really likes Trey McNutt, Brett Jackson, and Junior Lake. Lake may even get a shot to win a spot out of Spring Training.

- There are reports that Terry Francona "deep down" wants to be the Cubs skipper. I seriously doubt that but even so I like Alomar Jr. and Maddux more than him.

- Greg and Mike Maddux have discussed being apart of the coaching staff if Mike gets the job but that is as far as Mike went on his comment.

- Yoennis Cespedes is for real and will likely get a deal that exceeds the 6 year 30 million dollar deal Chapman got from the Reds. The Cubs are extremely interested and could sign him to that deal. The guy looks like a cross of a younger Sammy Sosa (hitting) and Andre Dawson (defense) but with the speed of Carlos Beltran when he was with the Royals. He looks for real and I have not seen a guy with these tools at his "age." See it for yourself here.

- Of course there is talk out there about Aramis Ramirez coming back because interest is low and also rumblings the Cubs may make a play for David Wright but here are some other 3rd baseman on the trade wire the Cubs are linked to according to my source. Ryan Roberts of the Arizona Dbacks, Jack Hannahan of the Cleveland Indians, Chase Headly of the Padres, and yes even talk about Hanley Ramirez of the Flordia Marlins. Side note on HanRam, he may be the odd man out in Florida because of clubhouse issues and the pursuit of Jose Reyes. Trading Hanley and the bulk of this 3 years 46 million could allow the Marlins sign a guy like Reyes and Pujols or Fielder or Cespedes along with Madson. It should be noted Theo has high regards for Hanley. I could see a Zambrano and a couple of prospects for Hanley. I would love to get Hanley Ramirez and Gaby Sanchez in a deal together but that maybe asking too much!

Until Next Time...

Cubs Rumors: Sizemore, Wright, Maddux, Sveum, Pitching, Big Z, Trade Partners, and Much More...

2011-11-08T16:30:00.003-06:00

- Ken Rosenthal thinks Grady Sizemore can get a one year deal worth a base of $9 million. If that is the case you can but an X through the Cubs as a landing spot for him. I cannot see a team guarantee Sizemore that base salary. Now, I would give him a $5M base with incentives to reach 9 million.
- I am saying right now the Cubs will be players for David Wright. I am seeing too much smoke for there not to be a fire. There are talks internally about a trade and restructuring his contract and making it into a multi-year deal if they trade for him so they don’t have to pay him $15M next season and only have him for one year.
- The Cubs have been in trade talks with numerous teams according to sources and have talked to the A’s about Brett Anderson but not Gio Gonzales. The same source nothing is close on the trade front but it that could change quickly with a phone call.
- The Cubs viewed Jonathan Sanchez as a high risk/high reward player but did not want to pay the Giants asking price.
- Mike Maddux has removed his name from the Red Sox managerial interview process because of family issues. Maddux said Boston is just too far from Texas where his family is. He is still slated for the interview process with the Cubs on Weds.
- Maddux is now viewed as the front runner for the Cubs managerial position.
- Sandy Alomar Jr. is being considered internally as a possible candidate but they have not reached out to him yet.
- Mike Quade could make his way into the Phillies organization according to Ken Rosenthal.
- Catcher Steve Clevenger and Jeff Beliveau are being considered as compensation for Theo Epstein. A far cry from asking for Garza.
- The Cubs have named Joe Bohringer as the Director of Professional Scouting and will work under Jed Hoyer. Tim Wilken will work under Jason McLeod.
- Dale Sveum had his interview yesterday and here are some highlights-
***Prince Fielder is one of the best guys he has ever coached and has a strong relationship with him.
***Sveum and Mike Maddux are good friends and he thinks he will be a good manager someday.
***He really prepares for games by video work, stat analysis, among other things. Rumors say Sveum does more work into preparation than most do.
***Dale tries to keep his cool but he is an emotional guy. His nickname is “Nuts”
***When you are a big market team you are not thinking rebuild; you are thinking about a World Series, said Sveum.
- The Cubs could do addition by subtraction this winter. Theo and Co are reportedly looking to revamp the outfield to make it more athletic and better defensively. Rumors out there suggest Theo and Co. could trade away Marlon Byrd and Alfonso Soriano, bring up Brett Jackson and add two guys through free agency or trades. This rumor stats Theo is looking to get younger in the outfield as well which is why the names Grady Sizemore (29 years old) and Yoenis Cespedes (26 years old) have been linked to the Cubs. I expect Sizemore to get a one year deal worth around $5M as the base salary with incentives. Cespedes is expected to get 5-6 years 30-45 million over those years. In the case of Cespedes he would be a nice building block for the Cubs outfield while Sizemore could be apart of the outfield for years to come if he bounces back from two injury filled low production years in Cleveland otherwise he could be a stop gap for Matt Szczur. Brett Jackson is expected to be apart of the outfield for 2012 as well. So with Cespedes, Sizemore, and Jackson in the outfield you have all guys with good speed, great gloves, good arms, and can definitely handle the bat. To me the move would make the Cubs be the most athletic outfield in the majors and would also fit the mold for building for the future yet contending now. This rumor actually makes a ton of sense.
- Want more information on Cuban star Yoenis Cespedes? Go check MLBTR.COM- The Cubs also have great interest in Chunichi southpaw Wei-Yin Chen and lefty Tsuyoshi Wada. Both are going to come very cheap on the free agent market and both have great upside. Check both here and here
- The Blue Jays have called the Cubs about Carlos Marmol and could offer up some young top pitching prospects for Marmol.
- The Royals have interest in Carlos Zambrano which is not news to HotStoveCubbies because I told you the interest was there back on Oct. 31st. You can find it here
- This will probably be a first on this site as well; Zambrano is drawing interest from other teams (and no not just the Marlins and Royals) like the Giants, Diamondbacks, and Mets (Mets would require paying 90% of his contract or taking on another bad contract i.e. Jason Bay)
- Kevin Slowey maybe a cheap option for the rotation if non-tendered said a source. He had a bad year and could come at a minor league deal.

Until Next Time…

The Latest on the Rumor Train!!!

2011-11-05T01:10:00.000-05:00

The rumor train is at full speed as well as some detail on the manager search so here is the latest-

- Terry Francona is a fit for the Cubs if he and Theo determine it is a fit. Does that make sense?
- The Cubs interviewed Pete Mackanin (the Phillies bench coach) today for their manager job.
- The interview process is really a window into how Theo Epstein looks into things. The interview starts with a conventional sit-down meeting, after that a long process where a candidate gets a simulated game situation with rosters, statistics, player usage, and other factors used in an actual game situation to come up with their response. Theo and Jed will vary on how they want an answer as in they may want it immediately or want a thoughtful analysis or even create a somewhat hostile environment for the person interviewing. The next step in the process is they get to sit down with the media and let them ask questions. This is a dramatically better process Theo is bringing to the Chicago Cubs. Just one of the many reasons why Ricketts had a high regard for him.
- The final step in the interview process is Theo and Jed coming up with one candidate then presenting it to Rickets and his Board of Directors for final approval.
- Mike Maddux will interview next week for the Cubs managerial job because he is battling laryngitis.
- Brewers’ hitting coach Dale Sveum will interview next week as well but according Tom Haudricourt the Cubs has not asked permission.
- The Cubs are also linked to Indians’ bench coach Sandy Alomar Jr., Red Sox bench Coach DeMarlo Hale, and Rays’ bench Coach Dave Martinez.
- The Cubs have a very similar list to the Red Sox because Theo and Ben have a similar interviewing process and criteria.
- Rumors are circling that if Terry Francona is named manager then Ryne Sandberg will be named his bench coach. Why is this significant? Because Terry would likely just be managing for the next 3 years or less (which he has said before) and having Sandberg as a bench coach learning the “Theo Way” from Mr. Boston himself Terry Francona is the best way to learn on the job to be Francona’s successor.
- Greg Maddux maybe reconsidering taking a full-time job in the ML again. There is talk out there that Greg would consider becoming a coach for Mike Maddux if he is named the Chicago Cubs manager. Someone close to the Maddux brothers said it has been Greg’s dream to be on a coaching staff with his brother. What better place than the Chicago Cubs?
- MLBTR states Joel Pinero and David DeJesus as fits for the Cubs. I just don’t see it when you can get Grady Sizemore and Erik Bedard for a similar price.
- A tidbit in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel list the Cubs along with the Rangers and Angels as players for Prince Fielder. Fielder is reportedly looking for 8 years at 20 million a year. The Cubs would refuse to pay that price tag and will not get in a bidding war. I think the Cubs could pull what the Phillies did with Halladay and Lee, offer less years and more money a year. 125 million over 5 years sounds good to me.
- Wood is going to sit down with Epstein and Company very soon to discuss his future. He is expected to be with the team in one capacity or another.
- There is a rumor out there that the Blue Jays have check on Matt Garza’s availability.
- Levine adds to the rumor mill stating CJ Wilson and Roy Oswalt are not options for the Cubs and Nick Markakis is an interesting trade target. I agree with his assessment.
- The Cubs could have interest in Braves pitcher Jair Jurrjens but he does not fit the mold of a Saber guy Epstein will look for.
- The A’s will listen to offers on any of their players. I think the Cubs would be foolish not to look at Brett Anderson, Trevor Cahill, or Gio Gonzales especially.
- The Cubs have been scouting Yu Darvish for the past year and have also been scouting lefty Tsuyoshi Wada as a left handed starter.
- A great story for Cubs’ fans that needs a good ending in December. Ron Santo is 1 of 10 “Golden Era” candidates for the induction to the Hall of Fame. The committee consists of 16 members and 12 of those members need to cast a yes for Santo to be inducted. The vote will take place on December 5th and we will be hoping and praying Santo will be finally inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
- Talks have been slow on the compensation front for Theo Epstein.

Until Next Time…

Cubs Manager Search Starts...

2011-11-02T16:11:00.002-05:00

With Mike Quade down and out lets look at the newest rumors involving the Cubs managerial search.

- Here is what Theo Epstein and company are looking for according to the press release-
We are looking for someone with whom and around whom we can build a foundation for sustained success. The next manager must have leadership and communication skills; he must place an emphasis on preparation and accountability; he must establish high standards and a winning culture; he must have integrity and an open mind; and he must have managerial or coaching experience at the major league level.
- Terry Francona will not be a candidate for the Cubs job according to Ken Rosenthal.
- Unfortunately Ryne Sandberg will not be the manager next season for the Chicago Cubs. Theo did a really classy thing by calling up Sandberg to tell him he is not in the running for the job. Sandberg in turn responded by saying very kind things about the Cubs and the direction Theo is taking them. You can read his comments in the Daily Herald here.
- If Ryne Sandberg does not get a managers job in the majors he could wind up with the Cubs as a bench or base coach.
- Yes the Cards have asked permission to interview Sandberg and it has been granted. I have also heard whispers he will interview with Boston as well. Media outlets from both Boston and St. Louis say Ryne is a long shot because of the other established candidates.
- The Cubs will likely pass on current managers in MLB. That means no Joe Maddon, Bud Black, or Joe Girardi.
- Here are some names out there right now: Bob Brenly, Bobby Valentine, Mike Maddux, Dale Sveum, Dave Martinez, Tim Bogar, DeMarlo Hale, Sandy Alomar Jr., Pete Mackanin, and Don Wakamatsu.
- There has been talk that the Cubs are not allowed to raid the Padres and Red Sox anymore so you could see Tim Bogar and DeMarlo Hale taken off that list unless the Red Sox conclude their managerial search before the Cubs or allow the Cubs to interview them.
- Out of the list above I like Mike Maddux, Dale Sveum, Bob Brenly, Pete Mackanin, and Dave Martinez the best but would be OK with all of them except Bobby Valentine and Don Wakamatsu.
- If Dave Martinez is named the manager don't expect him to name Ryno as a coach. The two have a not so good past as players on the Cubs.

Until Nex Time

My 2012 Top 50 Free Agent Predictions

2011-11-01T15:39:00.004-05:00

I am going to do something more mainstream today by listing the top 50 free agents (according to MLBTR.com) and predicting their landing spot. This by no means is what I want to happen it is my predictions based on information, rumors, and needs by all 30 Major League teams. So here we go!

Albert Pujols – Cards
Prince Fielder – Blue Jays
Jose Reyes – Nationals
C.J. Wilson – Rangers
Yu Darvish – Blue Jays
Edwin Jackson – Royals
Jimmy Rollins – Phillies
Aramis Ramirez – Angels
Carlos Beltran – Red Sox
Jonathan Papelbon – Red Sox
Michael Cuddyer – Cubs
Mark Buehrle – Cards
David Ortiz – Mariners
Ryan Madson – Reds
Hiroki Kuroda – Dodgers
Carlos Pena - Pirates
Francisco Rodriguez – Marlins
Roy Oswalt – Rangers
Javier Vazquez – Retirement
Heath Bell- Padres
Coco Crisp – Brewers
Hisashi Iwakuma – Twins
Kelly Johnson – Dodgers
Josh Willingham – Reds
Paul Maholm – Royals
Grady Sizemore – Cubs
Bartolo Colon – Blue Jays
Erik Bedard- Cubs
David DeJesus – Braves
Jason Kubel – Marlins
Ramon Hernandez – Pirates
Jeff Francis – Orioles
Chris Capuano- Mets
Tsuyoshi Wada – Cubs
Clint Barmes – Tigers
Casey Kotchman – Rays
Freddy Garcia – Yankees
Aaron Hill – Diamondbacks
Johnny Damon – Indians
Aaron Harang – Padres
Jamey Carroll – Twins
Rafael Furcal – Cards
Juan Pierre – Astros
Frank Francisco – White Sox
Jason Marquis – Mets
Joel Pineiro – Pirates
Jonathan Broxton – Giants
Joe Nathan – Twins
Kerry Wood – Cubs
Bruce Chen - Padres

So the in my top 50 the Cubs will be receiving Kerry Wood, Tsuyoshi Wada, Erik Bedard, and Michael Cuddyer. After hearing Theo's press conference I am 75% certain that big names Pujols and Fielder will not be on the north-side. I think Theo will build a nice young team and add big named free agents once he evaluates the team. I do not think he will make moves to jeopardize the Cubs financially to win next season and hurt them down the road.

Which is why they add a guy like Erik Bedard and Grady Sizemore to a one or two year deal. Both are high risk/high reward players and fall under Theo ball. Bedard brings balance to the starting rotation and Sizemore adds veteran depth to the outfield and could start in RF for the Cubs. Bringing Kerry Wood back on a one-year deal at a discount is a no-brainer. The two multi-year deals I see Theo handing out is Tsuyoshi Wada and Michael Cuddyer. Cuddyer could seek a three year deal worth around 30 million and play at least 5 of the 9 positions on the diamond although he could be the starting 3rd baseman or 1st baseman for the Cubs; tremendous value there. Wada's value is reportedly around a 2 year deal worth 8 to 10 million which is a really good value for a left-handed starter with his funky delivery and a 1.80 ERA last season.

The rest of the holes on the Cubs roster will be filled by players not on the top 50 list, trades, and the minor leagues. Expect to see a lot of movement by Team Theo this winter to bring in his guys.

What does your top 50 predictions look like? Any predictions you think I am right on or far off? On this list who do you think the Cubs will add? Feel free to comment.

Until Next Time...

Quick Hits- Manager, Coaching, Free Agency, and Trades

2011-10-31T15:48:00.000-05:00

- With Tony LaRussa retiring; there has been several lists that include potential candidates to replace Tony put out there by the media and all of them include Ryne Sandberg. Talked to one of my sources that says he “will definitely get an interview from the Cardinals” if he does not find a manager job before them.

- Dave Duncan may or may not retire. I am wishing upon a star but please come to the Cubs Dave!

- Another guy the new manager (if there is one) should bring in from the Cardinals coaching staff is Jose Oquendo as a base coach. He is high regarded in the baseball community as a good baseball mind and a great base coach. He would be a great addition to the staff.

- The Cubs exercised Aramis Ramirez 2012 $16M option but then he declined the option saving the Cubs the $2M dollar buyout. Aramis is looking for a 3-4 year deal worth 15 million a year. The Angels are likely to pay up big for Ramirez.

- The Cubs also declined Jeff Samardzija’s $3M option for 2012 but he is still under team control so they will bring him back for a lower rate.

- Josh Vitters is going to play 3rd base in the minor’s full time next year. Some think he may make the jump to AAA next season.

- Carlos Pena, Kerry Wood, Reed Johnson, John Grabow, Rodrigo Lopez, and Ramon Ortiz all filed for free agency yesterday. Wood stated he will only come back next season is if it is with the Cubs. If he does not get a contract with him he will retire. Carlos Pena is looking for a multi-year deal which could be a hang up for the Cubs.

- Carlos Zambrano to Kansas City??? There is interest from KC but only if the Cubs pay the majority of his contract. Anything can happen because the Braves just sent 38 year old Derek Lowe to the Indians for a low A minor leaguer. The Braves are paying 10 of the 15 million left on Lowe’s contract. The Cubs could do something very similar with the Royals or any other team for that matter.

- We could find out Quade’s fate as early as tomorrow and no later than Friday according to my sources.

- Bud Selig will likely decide compensation for Epstein which will favor the Cubs.

Until Next Time…

The Theo Epstein Era Has Started!

2011-10-25T19:13:00.000-05:00

The press conference quick hits and other notes-

- That was Theo Epstein at Starbucks a couple weeks ago.

- I liked the Theo Epstein “Office Space” comment in referring to himself as Milton they guy that came to work but did not actually have a job.

- Theo is looking to build the team from the ground up.

- He is looking for the same unity and coaching from the Winter League to AA ball to MLB to the Front Office.

- I best describe Theo’s vision as family oriented where you start from a foundational ground and build from within and expand from there.

- Theo says he will have plenty of resources to be successful but expressed that means toward the draft and other avenues.

- He says this change is not an immediate but that does not mean a one year turn around is not possible.

- He values both traditional scouting and new age, describes using both in one scope to clearly and completely evaluate a player.

- He says the Cubs and Red Sox have a good relationship and will continue to work towards a compensation agreement.

- Hoyer and McLeod will likely be announced the day after the WS concludes.

- Quade and Epstein will have a sit down conversation about their visions and what happened last year. If you listen to the press conference it sounds like he is saying positive things about Quade right before he cans him.

- It is possible Hoyer could let Quade go even though it will likely be the President of Baseball Operations decision.

- John Ferrell will not be the Cubs new manager if Quade is let go because the Blue Jays will not allow him to make a lateral move.

- One source told me it is likely that Ryne Sandberg will be with the Chicago Cubs ML in some capacity in 2012.

- Another source close to Ricketts said the Cubs will have a ceiling of $160M for the Baseball Operations side of things.

- Theo left the door open on high profiled free agents such as Pujols and Fielder by saying if the “market allows them to be players”

- Theo Epstein was the Cubs pie in the sky guy. It was hard to imagine landing him.

- A strong draft class really helped Theo in making a decision on the job,

- At no time did Theo ask for more money or an extension from the Red Sox.

- Epstein’s good trait is he is really competitive.

- Main focus is player development and scouting.

- Best tradition is winning according to Theo.

- Theo plans on bring in the best and baseball and leaving those instrumental to the Cubs in place.

This should be a great and busy offseason for the Chicago Cubs as they usher in a new era. As always tune into Hot Stove Cubbies for your Cubs rumors and news. Don’t forget to follow me on twitter for up to the minute news and rumors as it breaks.

Until Next Time…

Cubs Get Their Man and Quick Hits...

2011-10-22T08:02:00.002-05:00

- The Cubs finally got their man and it took Selig stepping in.
- Players involved will be settled at a later date.
- Theo Epstein actually resigned from his position with the Red Sox to take the GM job with the Cubs.
- Theo will negotiate compensation with the Red Sox.
- The next two moves is hiring Jed Hoyer as GM and his Assistant Jason McLeod from the Padres.
- The Cubs have received permission to "interview" both Hoyer and McLeod. Both are expected to join the Cubs soon.
- There will be a press conference Tuesday at Wrigley announcing Theo Epstein as the Cubs new President of Baseball Operations. It is also rumored they will announce the hiring of Hoyer and McLeod.
- One rival GM said the Cubs have the "brightest minds in baseball in their front office and if they cannot win with them then they should mail it in."
- There is a rumor out there that Ricketts will raise payroll to around 150-160 million next season which includes players salary and player development.
- After this front office is assembled the next moves for the "baseball minds" is to determine "who will stay and who will go on the current staff" and speaking to players about options and extensions.
- Many feel the front office team will let several coaches and staff go from all levels in the organization including coaches like Mike Quade, Mark Riggins, and several coaches in the minors.
- Theo and his team would like to put their stamp on Chicago Cubs baseball and create a new mentality so a large change over is needed.
- Like most of you I have heard the Ryne Sandberg rumors and I believe there is some truth to them. Sandberg is essentially being passed over again in the Phillies system when a report came out stating that the coaching staff will remain in place unless a coach leave for another position. The Phillies believe Sandberg will find a manager or coaching position somewhere in MLB.
- One source I have talked to said that Ricketts and Epstein have both wanted to put a family atmosphere in the Cubs organization by bring back some individuals that have impacted the Cubs in the past. This source said he would not be surprised to see the front office hire Ryne Sandberg as manager and then he in turn name Larry Bowa as his bench coach and possibly add Mark Grace somewhere on the staff. What a buzz that would create.
- There is a very slim chance that Greg Maddux will be with the Cubs in a professional capacity next season but anything is possible. If I were Theo I would beg and plead and give him a blank check to become my next pitching coach.
- Does anyone think the Cubs can get Dave Duncan from the Cards? I don't but man I would try! That guy is a genius when it comes to pitchers.
- Jason McLeod is pretty good at what he does! He is responsible for adding Dustin Pedroia, Clay Buchholz, Jacoby Ellsbury, Daniel Bard, and Justin Masterson just to name a few.

Until Next Time..

Theo and the Funky Bunch

2011-10-20T15:34:00.002-05:00

If you follow twitter you know all day today there has been conflicting reports in regards to the Theo Epstein talk but finally it seems like the Boston media is getting on board. No word on what players have been sent packing to Boston or when a press conference maybe but here is the latest.

- Theo Epstein will have complete control of the Baseball Operations side of the Chicago Cubs.

- Jed Hoyer will become the next GM of the Chicago Cubs.

- Hoyer will not cost the Cubs player compensation because of the good relationship between the Padres owner and Ricketts.

- Theo originally wanted Josh Byrnes but the declined and Jed Hoyer asked for an extension from the Padres before eventually accepting the job offered as the Cubs GM.

- Players included as compensation for Theo are not on the ML roster and do not include prospects Matt Szczur, Brett Jackson, or McNutt according to Bruce Levine.

- I keep hearing the names Jay Jackson and Josh Vitters from "people in the know."

- The Cubs have not asked MLB to make an announcement tomorrow as of 3:30 PM CST today.

- Assistant Jason McLeod is expected to join the Cubs front office. McLeod is Jed Hoyer assistant in San Diego.

- The Cubs new front office is considered by the media, baseball officials, rival GMs, players, and others around baseball as one of the best and brightest front offices in baseball. One official said the Cubs as an organization and their fans should be ecstatic as the changes made by Tom Ricketts. While a rival GM says "Tom Ricketts has paved a new road in baseball with the front office he just assembled.. Pretty high praises!

Here is some more information on the new Cubs GM Jed Hoyer-

- Former Assistant GM to Red Sox under Theo Epstein.

- Persuaded Curt Schilling to accept a trade from Arizona to Boston. A move that would be a big part of winning a World Series.

- Was among the group that landed Josh Beckett, Mike Lowell, Mark Loretta, and Andy Marte via trade. All moves that helped the Red Sox win the World Series.

- Hoyer had interviewed with the Pirates and Nationals before landing in San Diego in which his first year they won 90 games.

- Hoyer was also responsible for the trade of Adrian Gonzales to the Red Sox when he determined Adrian was going to leave free agency the following year. Hoyer was able to obtain the Red Sox #1 prospect Casey Kelly, #3 prospect Anthony Rizzo, and #6 prospect Reymond Fuentes. All of which are doing well in the Padres system.

Until Next Time...

D-Day: No Epstein Announcement But Rumors Likely

2011-10-18T10:27:00.005-05:00

Many say the announcement is unlikely today but some say it is still possible. I am leaning toward the former.

- Nick Cafardo is one that is optimistic saying most deals get done once they reach the imposed deadline so a deal is still possible.

- It should be noted that Theo Epstein right now is in Boston and no announcement will be made without his presence in Chicago.

- Reports came out last night that the Red Sox asked for Matt Garza as compensation for Theo Epstein. The Cubs of course balked at that and then they moved onto Starlin Castro in which Randy Bush and Tom Ricketts laughed. They are now onto minor league prospects.

- Sean McAdam of CSNNE says the two sides are too far apart to get a deal done today. WEEI and the Sun-Times both agree with Sean McAdams.

- Sources say the Red Sox have now drawn their attention to top prospect Trey McNutt and Chris Carpenter. Most sources in relation to the Cubs label McNutt, Carpenter, Szczur, BJax, and Vitters are all untouchable. I think Epstein is worth a pitcher like Carpenter or McNutt but I do not think the Cubs should give in and give up one of those prospects.

- The thought around baseball is their is no way Epstein is in Boston next season because the Boston management has already promised Ben Cherington the GM job, said that they would not renew Epstein contract, and will not pay Theo 7 million for a lame duck season. Not to mention they criticizing Theo for the Crawford deal. I tell you what Boston brass I will take Epstein, Crawford, and Lackey if you take Soriano and Zambrano.

- Sources close to Tom Ricketts say he is willing to wait until he gets the right deal rather than jeopardising the Cubs farm system. Rumors have even gone as far as possibly putting a baseball operations team together until Theo comes along.

- Josh Byrnes may move before Theo according to sources. Theo Epstein has already told Ricketts some of his plans in the interview so Tom (if confident a deal could get done) could start hiring and firing and making moves that Theo would have done his first days and weeks on the job starting with hiring Josh Byrnes and possible firing Mike Quade.

- Many sources think the Cubs have a lot move leverage considering the Red Sox have went for asking for Garza down to minor league talent. Shows a lot of leverage the Cubs way and desperation from the Red Sox to get something of value.

- Many say a deal is incredibly unlikely to fall through. One of my sources say there is a better chance of a Babe Ruth resurrection and signing with the Cubs for 2012 than a deal falling through.

-Both clubs need to get a deal done because both need to start conducting a managerial search very soon!

- Bud Selig does a MLB announcement blackout during the World Series so an announcement could still be made before the game tomorrow evening. Although the Cubs could ask permission from Selig to do one on a off or travel day.

- Epstein wants to take three Boston employees with him to Chicago. The Herald has all three names Brian O'Halloran who is VP of Baseball Operations, Dave Finley is a Special Assistant to the GM, and Mike Reinhold who is the Head Athletic Director and Assistant Director of Medical Services.

- Another name that could be coming to Chicago is Jason McLeod who is the head of the amateur draft and Jed Hoyer's assistant for the Padres.

- MLB cannot interfere or arbitrate a resolution between the two clubs but will continue to monitor the situation.

- If Ryne Sandberg interviews for the Cubs manager position (if and when Quade is fired) then he will get the job. They will not turn him down twice.

Let's hope something gets done today and an announcement is made tomorrow so we can get the off season underway!

Until Next Time...

Epstein Talk: The Past 24 hours And New Rumors

2011-10-12T19:50:00.002-05:00

Let’s run down some facts and rumors of the Theo Epstein to Chicago Talk in the past 24 hours-

- Congrats to the Boston Herald for first breaking the news by says Theo Epstein is on the “cusp of leaving his job as general manager of the Red Sox to accept a position with the Chicago Cubs that is believed to include powers greater than he has in Boston.” This set the blog and twitter world on fire and created the domino effect that we witness last night into today.

- Epstein did not originally agree to the complete deal as reported last night; just the parameters but the deal was signed this morning.

- Many reports stated it was a “done-deal” and to a certain extent they were right. Saying that is basically like asking the hottest girl to prom and getting shut down and taking her best friend. You are still going to the Prom with a date she is just the original hot girl you were going with.

- An announcement could be as early as Thursday but Friday seems like it is getting the most buzz.

- Crane Kenney got blasted by some baseball execs and the media was there to report them. Here is what they said-

*****Epstein's responsibilities and title would "assure that Epstein would have the authority to keep meddlesome Cubs' president Crane Kenney out of baseball business."

*****Multiple high-level execs from other organizations view Kenney "as an interfering, credit-seeking suit with little baseball acumen and an impediment to landing a top general manager."
- Despite the criticism from execs, Ricketts said Crane Kenney was involved in the process and applauded him for doing a good job.

- Mike Quade was not informed or in on any discussions regarding the GM search. Is anyone really surprised? Sometimes I wondered if Quade was ever informed he was a ML Manager throughout this season.

- The Cubs contacted several other GMs while trying to land Theo Epstein and they were Andrew Friedman, Rick Hahn, Dan Evans, Jerry Dipoto, and Kim Ng. But the Cubs got their first choice as GM.

- The Cubs will not give up Brett Jackson or Starlin Castro as compensation to the Red Sox. Several reports indicated last night and early this morning that the Cubs would pay cash and maybe give a minor league player not on the 40 man roster.

- It looked originally like the Cubs would sign Theo to a 3 or 4 year deal but Epstein expressed interest in building a team not purchasing one so the Cubs added a year.

- Theo and Tom have the same outlook/vision for the Cubs in the next 5 years. It was originally rumored that Ricketts would have to increase payroll to have Theo come aboard but that report was proven false.

- Theo Epstein will have to ask permission from the Boston Brass to take current Red Sox employees with him.

- Red Sox owner John Henry has an opportunity to stop the bleeding by signing Epstein to an extension and granting him a promotion but chose not to because he did not want to keep an employee that does not want to be there.

- Theo Epstein approved of the extension for Fleita and retaining Tim Wilken. He has high praise for both!

- Epstein met with the Cubs front office on two occasions that included Tom Ricketts, Crane Kenney, Tim Wilken, Oneri Fleita, Ari Kaplan, and others. Quade was not in any meetings.

- The Cubs signed Theo to a 5 year 20 million dollar contract which includes the Cubs picking up the conclusion bonus in Theo’s Red Sox deal.

- Theo Epstein will likely have the title of General Manager and President of Baseball Operations for the Chicago Cubs. Theo will only have one man above him in his field and that is owner Tom Ricketts. Crane Kenney will have no say in the Baseball Operations side of things and Theo Epstein will have no say in the Business Operations side of things. Crane Kenney will have his title adjusted from Team President to President of Business Operations for the Chicago Cubs.

- If Tom Ricketts hired a GM like Rick Hahn then he would have likely hired a separate President like a Pat Gillick.

- After the dust has settled and Theo is named the Cubs GM at his introductory press conference he along with other Cub officials will decide on Mike Quade’s fate with the Cubs.

- It should be noted that Theo Epstein was seeking Ryne Sandberg to come to Boston last season to manage their AAA affiliate. So it is likely; because of Sandberg’s connection to the city of Chicago, the Cubs, and the fan base, that Ryno is the favorite to be hired as manager once Quade is presumably dismissed.

- Rumors are out there that Theo Epstein will go level by level to determine who to keep and who should pack their bags. The entire coaching staff for the ML Cubs is likely to be dismissed even Rudy Jaramillo.

- Some reports are that Theo Epstein will change the dynamic throughout the Cubs system to make them a more of a complete team. Revamps include promoting and putting coaches in place that teach good plate discipline, better fundamentals, better defense, and a winning attitude.

- Theo is rumored to wanting to create a family feel much like what the Phillies model but would like to keep the Cubs “in the family” according to sources. This is one of the many things Tom and Theo agreed upon and got both very excited about. The premise is that the Cubs front office would like to put together a Cubs family throughout the entire minor league system starting at the top and going down to A ball. Which means the idea of having Ryne Sandberg as you manager, a former Cub like Mark Grace at hitting coach, and pitching Coach Rick Sutcliffe would not be out of the realm of possibility. It also could mean bringing back more former players for ST and to bring in former players and/or coaches in positions in the minor leagues. It should be interesting and exciting to see the changes coming up in the Cubs organization.

Until Next Time…

2011-10-11T18:47:00.001-05:00

For those without twitter Theo Epstein is the next Cubs GM

2011-10-11T18:46:00.001-05:00

For those without twitter. E

Cubs Rumors: Epstein, 3rd base, Pitching, and other notes

2011-10-11T15:29:00.000-05:00

Here are the latest Cubs notes from today-

- The Red Sox are pushing Epstein and the Cubs to come up with some sort of announcement whether it is accepting a job or declining it. The Red Sox are in a bad position at the top of the organization because they are waiting on Epstein and the Cubs and because of that they have put their manager search on hold. Their seems to be some regret and anger on the Red Sox part for allowing an interview to take place but it goes against their philosophy to decline an interview for a position higher than what the employee already obtains.

- The Red Sox have mentioned assistant GM Ben Cherington a lot recently almost like they are prepping Red Sox nation for him to take over the GM reigns when Epstein bolts for Chicago.

- The Cubs may have “at least” 3 possible replacements for Aramis Ramirez via trade (besides David Wright). Here they are-

· Alex Rodriquez- Rumors out of New York say the Yankees are growing tired of Arod and his lack of production, injury concerns, defensive decline, and off the field issues which may cause the Yankees to shop Arod. He has 6 years 143 million left on his contract which would be near impossible to unload unless the Yankees take on a similar contract or pay over half of Arod’s contract to get a deal done. I can see a Soriano and Zambrano for Arod deal but the Cubs would be basically trading 4 years 72 million for 4 years 143 million. So essentially they would take on 2 years 71 million if the Yankees did not pay any of his contract. So a deal might be pretty hard to do.

· Mark Reynolds- He could be traded to make room for some of their young up and coming corner infield prospects. Reynolds can play both 1st and third so he would be a nice addition for the Cubs considering he hit 37 homers last year. He has not hit below 32 in the past three years but with that you get his high strike out totals that have not dipped below 200 until this year. He plays OK defense and is nice power from the right side that would have the sting of losing Aramis Ramirez production hurt less. I could see the Orioles liking some young prospects or even a package around Randy Wells and Tony Campana in return for Reynolds.

· Kevin Youkilis- The guy has not been able to stay healthy recently and getting up there in age which is why it was reported yesterday that the Red Sox may entertain offers for Youkilis. The Red Sox might be starting a large overhaul and introducing some of their young minor league talent to the big leagues. As reported yesterday the Red Sox are growing more confident in young 3rd baseman Wil Middlebrooks. At age 22 Middlebrooks last season went from low A to AAA hitting 23 homers, batting .285, and playing decent defense. If the Red Sox do shop Kevin Youkilis then expect the Cubs to call because he is the best stopgap for younger players in the system to develop. Youk will make 12 million next season and has a $13M club option for 2013.

Bruce Levine had his chat today and here is the latest from him-

· He says the Cubs may have some competition from the Angels since they are looking for a GM as well.

· Levine says if the Cubs lose out on Epstein it is not the end of the world. He names DiPoto, Ben Cherington, and Rick Hahn as other candidates.

· Bruce once again stats he does not expect the Red Sox to receive compensation if the Cubs hired Epstein and I agree. Although he says in a worse case scenario the Red Sox get a mid-level prospect but nothing more.

· He does not see the Cubs going after Fielder. I do think they will go after him and land him.

· Crane Kenney will not be replaced as Team President for Theo but both titles could be altered in the form of President of Baseball Operations and President of Business Operations.

· Bruce thinks the Cubs could add John Danks, James Shields, or J.A. Happ this offseason via trade because they value is low and upside is good.

· Levine sees Aram landing with the Angels, Red Sox or Marlins. I think the fish and Angels are the best bet.

· Bruce thinks LeMahieu could be a fit a third for next season. Defensively I agree but not offensively.

· The Cubs will eat a good portion of Z and Sori’s contract to get a trade done.

· Bruce says if Epstein is the next GM we will find out this week.

· Bruce also does not see the Cubs going after C.J. Wilson.

Until Next Time..

Theo Epstein Rumors

2011-10-10T08:29:00.004-05:00

If you follow anyone in relation to the Cubs on twitter (especially me) you know the Theo Epstein rumors have really heated up. Here is the latest news in the past 24-48 hours-

- A fan thought he saw Theo Epstein at a Starbucks in Chicago, but "Theo Epstein" denied it.
- There is no way the Cubs offer Starlin Castro for Theo and the Red Sox know that.
- The Red Sox have granted permission to speak to Mr. Epstein.
- Some Red Sox fans think they are better off with Larry Luchinno taking back some the responsibility that Epstein took from him and name Ben Cherington GM.
- The Red Sox are trying to get some quality in return for Theo Epstein by expressing displeasure in information being leaked to the media that the Cubs asked to speak to Epstein. If the Cubs do have to give up something which I am not entirely sure they will; it would likely be a minor league pitcher like Jay Jackson.
- There are numerous reports that Epstein has been or will be offered a GM/President of Baseball Operations position with the Cubs which would be move up not a lateral move which the Red Sox would have likely denied Epstein to interview.
- Buster_ESPN on twitter says this from a rival GM "If he met with the Cubs, what it means is that if he gets the offer he wants, he's gone [to Chicago]." That would be great news for Cubs fans.

If you like unconfirmed rumors then read this next section. I have received more emails telling me rumors and news in the past 48 hours via email, direct message on twitter, and by text message than I have in my 5 years writing for Hot Stove Cubbies. Some rumors have been confirmed while others are still awaiting their approval. So, listed below are the rumors that have not been confirmed or collaborated by another source. These by no means should taken as news, just by what it is, a rumor.

- The Cubs have offered the job to Theo Epstein and he has accepted but they are just working out the contract details.
- Theo Epstein is a smoke screen for the entire process and to keep guys like me busy and off the trail.
- If Theo does commit to the Cubs it means Tom Ricketts has agreed to increase payroll to match what the Red Sox current payroll is which is 164 million dollars. That would be a increase of 30 million of this year's payroll. And if true then the Cubs have 90 million to spend just on 2012. That is enough to get a Cubs fan gitty! With that number the Cubs could afford to sign Fielder, Sabathia, and CJ Wilson with some money left over.
- The Cubs have already interviewed Friedman, Hahn, and Beane.
- Ryne Sandberg will be announced as the new manager along with Theo Epstien.
- There will be a press conference held at the break between the Championship Series and the World Series to announce Theo Epstein as the new GM but Theo is already at work because he has accepted this position.

As you can see some of these rumors are pretty far fetched so take them at face value.

Until Next Time...

More GM talk, Z, and Ricketts...

2011-10-06T16:09:00.000-05:00

- Still no report on whether or not the Red Sox have granted access to talk to Epstein. We likely will not hear anything until a decision has been made like accepting the position, turning it down, or the Red Sox denying the Cubs to talk to Epstein.

- Andrew Friedman works without a contract and can interview with any club at anytime without permission. He is currently the Cubs number 2 choice and up until recently he seemed entrenched in Tampa Bay.

- There have been reports that Ricketts may open the door to Epstein to a combination of President of Baseball Operations and GM.

- There is no way the Cubs will give compensation in the form of Castro to the Red Sox for Epstein. NO WAY that happens.

- I can see the Red Sox getting some compensation in the form of cash or a minor leaguer but not a top prospect or player like Castro or Brett Jackson.

- There is some talk out of Boston that fans are questioning if Epstein should even be back as Boston’s GM.

- Carlos Zambrano denies talking to Guillen about playing for him in Miami. OK Pinocchio!

- Buster Olney thinks Theo ends up with the Cubs.

- Another rumor out of the Chicago media is that Theo Epstein will require a higher payroll from Ricketts than the 2011 payroll to get things “turned around quicker.” Whether Ricketts meets those demands remains to be seen.

- I talked to one source that says Theo Epstein has all the leverage and Ricketts would make certain exceptions to land Theo but will not move on the Red Sox crazy rumored demands for compensation.

Until Next Time

GM Rumors, Manager Talk, and Player Movement UPDATE!!!!

2011-10-04T15:49:00.003-05:00

UPDATE! 5:28 PM CT-

According to multiple reports but first reported by Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe the Cubs have asked permission to interview Theo Epstein. More to come on this as it develops.

Here is the latest on the GM madness, splashed with a little manager and player talk-

- Gordon Edes talked to a source that says there is a 50-50 shot Epstein bolts for the Cubs job. I reported via twitter the same thing on Saturday from a very reliable source; maybe Gordon and I have the same source.

- Ricketts is remaining pretty quite on the GM search by design but did talk to Fox Business Network Monday and said there are a lot of good candidates out there and he is going to talk to a handful of them. Although he did not say who is in the handful.

- Reports are out that Billy Beane is no longer a candidate for the job.

- Some reports are saying Andrew Friedman and Brian Cashman are still possible but I am hearing both will stay put.

- It sounds like the Red Sox will not stand in the way of Epstein if he wants interview with any club.

- Two of the candidates that is rumored that Ricketts has interest in addition to Epstein is Rick Hahn and Ben Cherington.

- The Cubs also have interest in professional scouting director with the Braves John Coppolella.

- The Red Sox and White Sox have interest in Ryne Sandberg as their next manager.

- The Red Sox will ask for compensation for Epstein to leave for the Cubs. Probably at least two prospects.

- Guillen and Zambrano have talked about being together in Miami. Rumors are the Cubs are willing to pay Z in deferred payments for 2012 but the fish will be responsible for his option in 2013. Looks like a slam dunk deal to me, Randy Bush get it done!

- I talked to a source that says he puts Quade chances of coming back at 10%.

- I talked to another baseball exec that says he would be “shocked” if Sandberg does not end up on the north side of Chicago.

- Levine says Brett Jackson will battle for a starting spot in the outfield next season.

- Levine says the Cubs could take on a contract the size of what Fielder is worth but is wondering if they have enough money for everyone else.

- Levine thinks the Cubs can acquire some pitching from the Fish for Z.

- A source close to the Cubs says Ricketts is waiting to see what the Yankees and Rays do in the first round of the playoffs before he starts asking to interview already available candidates.

- Someone emailed me the two tier system Ricketts is using for this process. Tier one includes Cashman, Friedman, Epstein, Daniels and Beane. Tier two includes Hahn, Cherington, Coppolella, Kim Ng, and David Forst. This contradicts other reports I have heard especially most saying Cashman, Friedman, and Daniels not be interested and Beane dropping out of the Cubs GM race. It also names two people that have not gotten a ton of publicity and they are Assistant GM David Forst and baseball guru Kim Ng.

Be sure to check here with the most comprehensive Chicago Cubs rumors and news here on Hot Stove Cubbies. Also check me out on Twitter for the most up to date information on everything Cubs.

Until Next Time….

GM Talk, Payroll, and Ricketts Poker Face...

2011-09-29T19:42:00.001-05:00

- Tom Ricketts said he wants to get a GM in quickly and sufficiently as possible but says it is a big decision and there is no point in rushing it.

- Ricketts has talked to a lot of industry veterans including owners to get their opinion.

- Ricketts is very optimistic about the Cubs future and says a one-year turn around is not out of the question.

- He says the payroll will likely not exceed this year’s amount but things could change. The payroll going into next season will be 57 million that does not include renewing contracts, arbitration, free agent signings, bonuses, options, and buyouts. Which means the Cubs will have at least 78 million to spend on those things in 2012.

- Mike Quade is confident he will be back and for the most part is happy how he managed. I am pretty sure he is the only one.

- The coaching staff is still very much up in the air.

- Randy Bush and Tom Ricketts may make the decision on what to do with Aramis Ramirez if a GM is not in place.

- Gordon Wittenmyer of the Sun-Times says that Ricketts maybe at least dwindling down the candidate list after talking to other baseball people.

- Wittenmyer also says Josh Byrnes is no longer a candidate for the position. Good move my Ricketts!

- In addition to that Gordon says A’s GM and numbers guru Billy Beane is no longer among the top candidates for the position. Which either means he is a fall back, tier two, or completely out of the running.

- Cubbiescrib.com has a good write up on this discussing Wittenmyers knowledge of the GM situation and applying it to the premise that a GM may already be in place. They state Ricketts fooled all of us by relieving Hendry and waiting weeks to tell everyone, he maybe putting on his poker face again.

- Cubbiecrib.com along with others like me believes the two top candidates for the position are Friedman and Epstein. Epstein can be contacted at any time while Friedman will be called on after his team exits playoffs at the earliest. Which is why no decisions have been made, but that is if you believe Ricketts does not have already someone basically in place.

- Going with the CubbieCrib premise if there is a person in place I can see it being a guy like Rick Hahn.

- There is also a conspiracy theory out there that states that Ricketts has checked with his remaining interested candidates to see if they would name Ryne Sandberg the Cubs new manager and that has been a deciding factor for him. This could explain why Beane went from a top tier to a lower tier guy recently.

- This also would coincide with the report that the Cubs and Ryne Sandberg with “reconcile” after the season concludes. Many have speculated that this means welcoming him back to the organization at any time or named manager or maybe to just make good with the Hall of Famer.

- There are many rumors that Ricketts is going to do his due diligence by asking to interview both Friedman and Epstein hoping they will accept but knowing they won’t. By each declining it looks like he “tried” to get the “top tier big splash GM” which in turn would make a guy like Rick Hahn or Ben Cherington look like a very nice consolation prize. When in all actuality he already has one of them secretly in place and has an informal agreement to make Ryne Sandberg the next manager as well.

Until Next Time…

Cubs Notes: Z to Fish? Kenney Out? Dempster Staying? and more....

2011-09-27T16:59:00.003-05:00

- Bruce Levine is stating that the Ozzie Guillen’s new team the Marlins may look to trade for Zambrano to bring buzz to their new ballpark. Carlos and Ozzie are really good friends and both have talked about being on the same team together more than once. Well from many reports and rumors I am hearing it could be a forgone conclusion that he ends up there.

- The Marlins are not only going to look at current Cub Zambrano but have interest in bring in long-time Cub and free agent 3rd baseman Aramis Ramirez.

- Dempster will likely start Weds. on deciding on whether to pick up his player option. The free agent market would likely bring Dempster a three year deal worth 40 million.

- Ricketts said it will ultimately be up to the new GM on the direction the Chicago Cubs will take this winter. He says whether that be a youth movement, adding a player here or there, or adding several impact players. Ricketts says the money will be there for the right situation and he will have a say but the new GM will have the majority of the responsibility on him for forming a team.

- I am hearing that Crane Kenney will not be President of the Chicago Cubs after the World Series concludes or sooner. I am hearing one of two things will happen with Kenney; 1) He will be fired and removed from the Cubs completely or 2) He will accept a newly created position for him that strictly involves the renovations, ticket sales, promotions, facilities, etc. thus making a void in the Cubs Team President position. I am then hearing one of two things could happen from that 1) The Cubs will hire a separate Baseball Operations Team President like a Pat Gillick or 2) To make the new GM position more attractive to guys like Friedman, Beane, Epstien, etc... The Cubs will combine the Baseball Operations Team President position with the GM position which would be a huge selling point for the Cubs.

- I am also hearing the Cubs have a better chance at getting Theo Epstien from the Red Sox if they do not make the playoffs.

- If the Cubs cannot trade Soriano he will likely be released according to Cubs execs.

- There is speculation that Marlon Byrd could be trade bait this winter given the weak CF market.

- Ryne Sandberg will likely be linked to the White Sox manager job and may even receive an interview.

- Matt Szczur will be on the 40 man roster next season because his contract says he has to or it becomes void. It is not out of the realm of possibility that he makes his Wrigley Field debut sometime in 2012.

- Cashner and Shark will be competing for spots in the rotation next season.

- If Quade is replaced; Bob Brenly could be a managerial candidate or at the very least offered a coaching position on the Cubs staff.

GM talk and rumors are expected to heat up the next week or two and Ricketts is said to want one in place before November. So for the latest Cubs rumors and news check HotStoveCubbies and follow me on twitter at @HotStoveCubbies; until next time….

Cubs Offseason Rumors and News Starts....

2011-09-22T16:52:00.000-05:00

- 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...

Cubs Note: GM Stuff, Pitching, and Hitting

2011-09-20T19:46:00.001-05:00

- Walt Jocketty will not be the next Cubs GM according to sources. He is likely vying for an extension from the Reds.

- Tom Ricketts will not start contacting GMs until the first week in October.

- Ricketts will likely call on about 20+ GM candidates and have formal extensive interviews with 8-10 of them.

- Brian Cashman and Jon Daniels are not candidates for the Cubs GM job.

- Theo Epstein, Billy Beane, and Andrew Friedman have not denied interest in the job so they are still viable candidates.

- Tim Wilken did not receive an extension but will be back next season and is looking forward to it.

- Levine does not see LaHair as a possible replacement for Pena at first next season.

- Levine thinks the Cubs will trade for a left-handed starter this offseason and names JA Happ and John Danks as targets.

- A source of mine said the Cubs have extensively been scouting Zach Britton.

- Cashner will be stretched out this fall and likely come back to the Cubs as their 5th starter.

- Kerry Wood is done for the season and he said he either is going to re-sign with the Cubs or retire from baseball.

- The Phillies will likely add Ryne Sandberg to their coaching staff for next season according to Levine. I think he should be the Cubs manager next season.

- There are whispers out there that Crane Kenney will be out as Cubs President after the season. If that is the case then I see no reason not to have Pat Gillick as your next team President.

- If Crane Kenney is removed you could see a current baseball GM’s like Epstein, Beane, or Friedman take a promotion to become the Cubs new President.

Until Next Time…

Cubs This and That...

2011-09-14T20:21:00.001-05:00

Here is the latest on the Cubs front-

- Lance Berkman could be an option for 1st for the Cubs says a source to Tom Ricketts.

- Aramis Ramirez wants a multi-year deal. Here is what he said to Bruce Levine last night-

If I hit the marketplace I should end up with a two or three-year deal," Ramirez told Levine. "The reason is, there aren't a lot of third baseman available this offseason. But if [the Cubs] approach me, I'm sure we can get something done. But probably not for one year."

This is likely to be the next GM’s first decision and it will be a tough one. The Chicago Cubs do not have a viable option for 3rd base next season and the market looks really weak which makes trade value for 3rd baseman really high. One thing I would suggest is the Cubs exercise Ramirez 16M option for 2012 just to watch him decline it which means he forgoes the 2 million dollar buyout. If Ramirez accepts then you have him for another contract year and then you have guys like David Wright, Mark Reynolds, and Kevin Youkilis becoming free agents in 2012. If he declines then you don’t owe him anything. I really see it as a win/win for the Cubs to exercise the option.

- The Cubs are having internal discussions about moving Shark to the rotation. I hope they don’t do that again!

- The Cubs current front office has discussed possible replacements via trade for Ramirez if he does leave like David Wright, Alex Gordon, Mark Reynolds, and Ryan Roberts.

- Bruce Levine said the most likely candidate for GM next year is Rick Hahn.

- Levine says the Cubs will concentrate more on pitching rather than position players, honestly how do the Cubs not shell out a ton of cash for Fielder???

- Levine says the Cubs will have to think outside the box in trading for pitchers. He names J.A. Happ and John Danks as possible targets. Danks makes a ton of sense!

- Bruce would rather see the Cubs go after C.J. Wilson and trade for younger players than throw $25 million at Fielder. I think the Cubs should sign both Wilson and Fielder as two big pieces in moving forward.

- Levine says the Cubs budget next season will not exceed the $130M mark. That makes no sense because everyone (including Ricketts) compares the Cubs to the Yankees and Red Sox but having a payroll at $130M when the Yanks have a $207M payroll, Red Sox have a $163M payroll, and even the Phillies have a $165M payroll; the is no comparison. The Cubs need to spend up to $160M if they want to be compared to these teams. Otherwise they are comparing apples and oranges.

- By the way I know it has only been 8 games but LaHair is batting .500 with a .565 OBP with 4 doubles, 1 triple, and a homer. He is looking more and more like a late bloomer dare I say Jose Bautista.

Until Next Time…

We are back... and with News and Rumors...

2011-09-07T16:22:00.001-05:00

I finally have internet and here is the latest rumors, news, and notes….

- Tim Wilken is likely to get an extension in the coming weeks from Tom Ricketts. Tom recently extended Oneri Fleita 4 years to keep him from the Detroit Tigers. While I think it is a right decision to extend Wilken, Fleita is a head scratcher to me.

- Some media outlets think the decision to extend Oneri and possibly Wilken may make the GM job look less attractive. I agree with Oneri but signing Wilken to an extension should give the next GM excitement because he is the best in the game.

- Quade is still going to play veterans even though fans, media, and other want to see the young kids.

- Quade in my opinion is playing the last managerial job he will ever have.

- The move made with Fleita and possibly Wilken show some around baseball that Ricketts will hire a young assistant GM from another team.

- There is a ton of rumors that Ricketts is “strongly considering” Kim Ng who is a senior VP of Baseball Operation with MLB and a top GM candidate.

- So far the Cubs have brought up Bryan LaHair, Andrew Cashner, DJ LeMahieu, John Gaub, and Lou Montanez. Why Montanez I ask you?

- Brett Jackson will not be called up. He will play for team USA and likely play fall ball.

- Carlos Zambrano’s season is done and the team will likely trade him this winter.

- The White Sox and Cubs could swap bad contracts this off-season according to sources.

- Carlos Pena still remains a top 3 option for the Cubs to play 1st base next season.

- Prince Fielder and CJ Wilson are high on Ricketts list of players according to a source.

- Aramis Ramirez has a 16 million dollar club option for next season. If the Cubs decline it they pay a 2 million dollar payout. If they exercise and Aram rejects it he forgoes the payout and becomes a free agent. Many think the next GM and Aram will work out an extension. I think exercising his option is a win/win!

- Here are my odds on the rumored GM candidates actually becoming the Cubs GM.

Brian Cashman 1000-1

Andrew Friedman 750-1

Jon Daniels 750-1

Ned Colletti 500-1

Jerry DiPoto 400-1

Theo Epstien 250-1

Allard Baird 150-1

Thad Levine 100-1

Ben Cherington 75-1

Billy Beane 30-1

Josh Byrnes 25-1

Kim Ng 10-1

Rick Hahn 4-1

- I think ultimately it will be down to four with Beane, Byrnes, Ng, and Hahn. I think Rick Hahn lands the job and brings in Ryne Sandberg as his next manager.

Until Next Time…

Update.....

2011-09-03T20:32:00.002-05:00

I am having issues getting Internet here because we are considered new construction. Trust me this is hurting me more than it is hurting you! I am hoping to get Internet sometime this week but until then please check me out on twitter at HotStoveCubbies@twitter.com. Thanks to everyone for being so understanding.

Until Next Time...

An Update During a Crazy Time...

2011-08-22T16:37:00.002-05:00

A rare blog post during a crazy move-

- So far the Cubs have several rumored candidates for GM in Josh Byrnes, Billy Beane, Brian Cashman, Rick Hahn, Theo Epstien, Ben Cherington, Andrew Friedman, Allard Baird, Jerry DiPoto, Ned Colletti, Jon Daniels, Thad Levine, and dark horse Greg Maddux.

- Ricketts said this will not be a quick process. He is looking for an experienced guy with a strong track record outside the organization. That pretty much rules out the Greg Maddux rumors.

- Jim Hendry could land with Kevin Towers in Arizona.

- Kenny Williams endorses Hahn by saying this- "I've made no secret about it, Rick Hahn is, to me, one of the most qualified men to assume the position moving forward," Williams said. "What Mr. Ricketts does is his own business. He's a guy that's had a lot of success in business and in his world, and his world over there is none of my business at this point in time. But if he called for a recommendation on Rick Hahn, I absolutely would give him my highest."

- I reported via twitter over the weekend that the only thing standing in the way of the Chicago Cubs landing Rick Hahn is the White Sox granting access to interview him and Rick wanting the job. Sounds like the first hurdle is crossed by the Denny Williams endorsement.

- Rumor has it if Hahn is announced the new GM he WILL hire Ryne Sandberg as the next manager of the Chicago Cubs.

- Andrew Friedman is getting endorsed by former players and current Cubs Matt Garza and Carlos Pena. It would be great to see what Friedman can do with a big market team considering we already know he is a wizard at player development and talent evaluations.

- The Cubs have reached out to Greg Maddux about remaining in the organization. The club also would like to retain some front office staff as well.

- Ricketts said specifically on Friday he is looking for a GM committed to player development, stronger analytical background, and a track record of success.

- The Cubs will likely ask to interview 15 current or up and coming GMs over the next couple months.

- The new GM will have the opportunity to bring in a new manager or keep Mike Quade around. I see Q’s job in serious jeopardy.

- Ramirez maybe having 2nd thoughts on whether to stay in Chicago. He will wait the naming of the new GM and then test the free agent market. But honestly it is not his decision until the Cubs decide whether or not to exercise his 16 million dollar option.

- If the Cubs do not sign Ramirez then the talent falls off dramatically via free agency. Michael Cuddyer (has played some third) and Edwin Encarnacion (has a club option) are the next tier down. While players like Greg Dobbs, Mark DeRosa, Eric Chavez, Miguel Tejada, and Jose Lopez fill out the rest of the list. Not too promising!

- If Aramis does leave the Cubs will likely look the trade route. There have been rumors in the past about the Cubs jumping all over David Wright if he is made available. Also Alex Gordon, Brandon Inge, Mark Reynolds, Chone Figgins, Scott Rolen, and Mark Teahen are also trade canidates. Brandon Phillips also maybe willing to move to 3rd to make him more converted on the free agent market.

- MLBTR took a look at possible ways to trade Zambrano. MLBTR does a good job! The most intriguing to me is Z for Dunn, Z for Burnett, and Z for Roberts. I would also be OK for the Teahen for Z or Zambrano for Figgins. How about Zambrano and Soriano for Dunn and Peavy?

- Dempster is now not a lock to come back next year either.

- Fielder could be the first prize landed by the new GM giving Ricketts comments about willing to spend on impact players while developing their own.

- While I have not endorsed a candidate for GM I have a short list in no particular order Andrew Friedman, Rick Hahn, Brian Cashman, and Billy Beane are most suitable to me. If you guarantee that Hahn brings in Ryne Sandberg then he is my number 1 choice!!!

As always make sure you follow HSCviatwitter especially the next few weeks! I will be updating the latest information and news as I hear it. After that I should be able to regularly update the parent site HotStoveCubbies! Thanks to all for you support and go CUBS!

Until Next Time....

Cubs Notes.... It is about time!

2011-08-15T20:40:00.003-05:00

Here is the latest on the Chicago Cubs from a long layoff from HSC…

- So the Cubs are doing what they do best, exceeding expectations after they are ruled out of the playoffs.

- The Cubs are considering re-signing Carlos Pena but sources say they will court Pujols and Fielder first.

- Pena is very interested in re-signing with the Cubs and may even give them a discount. Pena is a good clubhouse guy, has a decent glove, and a great power hitter but Fielder is more of a move for the future rather than signing Pena.

- Carlos Zambrano might have thrown his last pitch for the Cubs or any team. The Cubs placed him on the restricted list after his tirade and ejection. He can’t have contact with the team for 30 days. Many speculate he will be dealt or released before the start of the 2012 season. Some close to Carlos said he may end up retiring to concentrate on other things and get his head together. CubbieCrib has the best information on this story.

- While I have always been a Zambrano fan and do think he is a great competitor and player; it is hard to come back from this. Being the Cubs you have to move on from him as much as it pains me to say. Watching Z leave the Cubs this way is hard to swallow and no way did I expect his to leave on these terms but it seems that is what will happen. I would like to point out that Carlos Zambrano’s actions have cemented his fate but by no means do I think they should define him as a player on the Chicago Cubs.

- Speaking of Z, the Dbacks just lost Jason Marquis for 4-6 weeks and have interest in Carlos Zambrano according to sources.

- Bob Nightengale came out with some interesting news; Hendry is likely to be retained. He said unless Ricketts changes his mind Hendry will remain GM for next season which is the final year of his contract. This likely means Quade will be retained but Crane Kenney will likely be replace with a guy like Pat Gillick or Brain Cashman. There are also rumors they could be grooming Maddux as the eventual successor to Hendry.

- If the Cubs retain Hendry that means no Sandberg in 2012 and from the news he might find himself on a major league coaching staff next season.

- It seems the Cubs have signed (officially or unofficially) all their draft picks except Shawon Duston Jr., Ricky Jacquez, and Taylor Dugas. The big two (Baez and Vogelbach) are expected to have an official announcement by the deadline.

- The Cubs would like to continue to bring in clubhouse guys and are targeting Nick Swisher as utility player for their bench. The Yankees hold an option on Swisher and has been a solid everyday player for them so it would be hard to say he would not find everyday work somewhere.

Please excuse the length between post but I am in moving mode so I will try to keep up on all things Cubs via twitter and will try to post on my blog as much as I can. Please hang in there and stay tuned.

Thanks!!!

Until Next Time...

Big Market Team "Put Up Or Shut Up!"

2011-08-03T21:29:00.002-05:00

Ricketts and Hendry have both gone on record stating you cannot re-build and start over as a big-market team. Hendry has gone as far as to compare the Cubs to the Red Sox and Yankees in respect to big market teams. Hendry also says the Cubs a just a few moves away from contending but if you are a big market team why don’t you make a ton of moves and win a World Series? It Hendry and Ricketts are going by what they are suggesting then I in turn say put your money where your mouth it!

The Yankees current payroll for 2011 is $207,047,964.00 and is expected to rise to $213,000,000.00 for 2012.

The Red Sox current payroll for 2011 is $163,822,475.00 and is expected to rise to $180,000,000.00 for 2012.

The Cubs current payroll is $134,000,000.00 and is unknown what to expect in 2012. We do know without arbitration, contract renewal, and trades the Cubs payroll would be 60 million for 2012.

The fact is the Cubs are under 29 million from the Red Sox payroll and 63 million from the Yankees payroll in 2011. Going into next season the Cubs would have a ton of ground to make up to stay a “big market team.” With certain contract renewals, extensions, and arbitration the Cubs payroll could be around 90 million and that is being generous. So if the Cubs want to remain in that category of a big market team and not rebuild they need to GO BIG or GO HOME!

So if I am Ricketts here is what I do to show the Cubs, their fans, the city of Chicago, and baseball in general; I spend money the right way and become a BIG MARKET TEAM! For argument sake lets say the Cubs start off with 70 million and have a projected payroll of 170-180 million for 2012. Leaving the Cubs to spend 100-110 million in 2012 on free agents, contract extensions, etc… Here is what I do.

1. Fire Hendry, Crane Kenney, and the entire coaching staff besides Rudy Jaramillo.

2. Hire Pat Gillick as President, Brian Cashman as GM, Mike Arbuckle as Assistant/Advisor to GM, and Greg Maddux as Assistant GM.

3. Hire Ryne Sandberg as Manager and let him assemble his own staff besides Jaramillo. Ryno suggested last season he would have asked Larry Bowa to be his bench coach.

4. Get the balls rolling on the “Cubs Network” and have it ready to debut by the offseason in 2013. That would bring more revenue, ads, sponsors, etc to afford the larger payroll and upgrades all around to the team, ballpark, and surrounding areas. Pretty much everything Cubs.
5. Cut, trade, non-tender, let leave via free agency, or send to the minors the following players Blake DeWitt, Koyie Hill, Randy Wells, Alfonso Soriano, John Grabow, Rodrigo Lopez, Ramon Ortiz, Jeff Smardzija, Carlos Pena, Aramis Ramirez, Reed Johnson, and Lou Montanez.

Free Agent Signings

1. Albert Pujols- 6 years 240 million with 7 year mutual option. I have his contract increase starting with 30 million and increasing each year until 2015 then it starts to decrease. Much like Arod’s contract does. I of course include perks, bonuses, benefits, etc to bring the contract close to 280 million. I am paying him more a year with this contract because I am not willing to pay 10 years 300 million. I also pay more a year because he is going to be starting at 3rd base for the Cubs!

2. Prince Fielder-7 years 180 million. I have Prince’s amount of his contract increasing each year. I actually have the same incentives, bonuses, and perks as Pujols. I draw up Fielders contract much like Mark Teixeira’s. If you are going to model someone might as well be the Yankees. I will start paying him 20 million in 2012.

3. CJ Wilson- 4 years 60 million. I pay him above the salary Dempster received from the Cubs when he was 31 but below the contract signed by Lackey and Beckett in Boston. This contract would be a straight across which means he will be paid 15 million a year for 4 years. Wilson would likely take his deal because it is over double what he is being paid this season.

4. Ryan Madson- 3 years 18 million. It will be hard to take him from the Phillies but for a guy that pitches out of the pen or rotation and be dominate I think you overpay at an average of 6 million a year.

5. Jason Isringhausen- 2 years 4 million. A nice increase from the 750K he is making his year and some security as well. He has almost regained his closer potential and is a nice veteran guy for your pen.

6. Greg Dobbs- 1 years 1.5 million. Another nice increase from the 600K he received. He would make an ideal utility guy from the left side.

7. Johnny Gomes- 2 year 3 million. Add power and attitude to the bench for Gomes.

8. Ivan Rodriguez- 2 years 5 million. Finally a catcher Soto can learn from and be a mentor to him. You cannot get a better backup catcher than Pudge and signing him to be a mentor and part-time catcher at 5 million over 2 years he will jump at that. Not to mention this season he has a 48% CS rater and it was 34% last year. Not bad for being 40!

Re-Sign Players

1. Jeff Baker- 2 years 3 million. Younger version of Mark DeRosa and you get what you see.

2. Kerry Wood- 2 years 8 million. End Wood’s career with the deal he should have had last season.

3. Ryan Dempster- 3 years 40 million. Opt out of deal and lands with 13 million over 3 years to end his career with the Cubs.

With all the free agent signings and current players resigning the Cubs would take on 97 million in new contracts for 2012. This does not take into account for non-tender, trading, or the releasing of players I listed above. Nor does it reflect the salary of management and coaches or salary arbitration. Here is what 97 million gets you in 2012, your lineup, bench, rotation, and bullpen.

Lineup-

Brett Jackson RF
Starlin Castro SS
Albert Pujols 3b
Prince Fielder 1st
Marlon Byrd CF
Tyler Colvin LF
Geovany Soto C
Darwin Barney 2B

The Cubs have a lineup that is finally balanced nicely with alternating L/R bats besides Soto and Barney. Not to mention the balancing of speed and power allows for the top of your order to create runs while the middle power them home. With Pujols and Fielder you have the scariest 3 and 4 hitters in baseball and maybe even top 10 all time. You also have a nice balance of youth and veterans that keeps you a big market team but still producing your own players. The thing I love about this lineup is over the next 6 years you will have the same corner infielders and over the next 5 you will have a young middle infield growing together. The same can be said for Jackson and Colvin. By the time Byrd is gone then Szczur could be ready and you put him in RF and slide Jackson in CF. I love this lineup but what is not to like?

Bench-

Ivan Rodriquez C
Jeff Baker IF/OF
Tony Campana OF
Johnny Gomes OF
Greg Dobbs IF

One of the Cubs major weaknesses this season is the bench. They did not have enough pop, speed, or versatility’; with this lineup the hit 2 of three. The Cubs add Gomes to help with the pop, Baker and Dobbs to help with versatility, Campana as a speed wizard on the bases, and Ivan Rodriquez is that nice backup that provides veteran leadership. This is going to be considered the best bench and most entertaining in baseball.

Rotation

Matt Garza
CJ Wilson
Ryan Dempster
Carlos Zambrano
Andrew Cashner

The Cubs add Wilson and re-sign Dempster strengthen their thin rotation. The top 3 in the rotation is very solid but Zambrano projected as a number 4 starter does not look bad when he post a 4.00 ERA and Casher is young and coming off injury so the 5th spot will help him keep down his innings. This will be a top 5 rotation in the NL in my opinion in 2012.

Pen-

Carlos Marmol C
Sean Marshall
Kerry Wood
Ryan Madson
Jason Isringhausen
James Russell
Ty’Relle Harris

The bullpen adds a ton of money to the payroll but it is needed because the Cubs need stability there especially with a weak depth in the minors. Add one former closer and one potential closer in Isringhausen and Madson makes this bullpen the envy of all of baseball. You add guys who have had success this season to them and you have a winner.

Conclusion---

If the Cubs want to be a BIG MARKET team the have to make BIG MARKET deals like the Yankees and Red Sox. It starts with Ricketts and he wants to be that TEAM then he needs to increase payroll, alter his vision, and show everyone the Cubs are for real. If Ricketts followed everything I laid out he would achieve that because I see this team winning 90+ games and making it to the playoffs and maybe World Series in 2012! But it is up to Ricketts… Are the Cubs a BIG MARKET TEAM or just pretending to be one?

Until Next Time…

Levine's Latest and Other Cubs Notes...

2011-08-03T21:24:00.000-05:00

Let’s check out Levine’s latest and other rumors-

- Levine stated the Cubs could put Soto on waivers to try to obtain pitching prospects since they think Castillo or Clevenger is ready for the Show. This would go against what Hendry implied at the deadline saying he will not trade anyone that will help next season.

- The Cubs could also place Koyie Hill on waivers and just let him go for salary relief.

- Quade is worried about his job so that is why he is torn between playing youth or veterans. He should be worried because unless something big happens he and Hendry should be gone!

- Levine also implied that Hendry’s hands maybe tied with his job, Quade’s job, and Kenney’s job all in jeopardy. Ricketts said he would address the team after the season but he maybe better served letting all of them go now!

- Sources say Zambrano could be claimed by the Yankees or White Sox once put on waivers.

- Soriano is unlikely to be claimed according to those same sources.

- Levine says Rick Hahn could be a viable GM replacement if Hendry is asked to leave. He said he has learned a lot from Kenny Williams and is considered the #1 GM prospect in baseball. He is from the Chicago area and grew up a Cubs fan.

- Greg Maddux is not a candidate for the GM job if Hendry leaves according to sources.

- If Ryne Sandberg is the Cubs next manager he could bring the band back together. Sandberg could bring in Jody Davis, Rick Sutcliffe, Larry Bowa, Lloyd McClendon, and/or Greg Maddux on his coaching staff in some capacity. Although Maddux is not likely to accept because he wants to spend more time with his family. Sandberg has said when he was in the running for manager that he wanted to bring in the Cubs family because of how unique the franchise actually is. Sandberg knew bringing in guys that understood what it is to be the Cubs is very important in coaching and running a team hence why he wants to bring former Cubs on his staff. It is also rumored that Sandberg had interest in bring in Bob Brenly as his bench coach.

Until Next Time..

Somethings Never Change

2011-07-31T14:14:00.002-05:00

That is the motto of the Chicago Cubs "Somethings Never Change." We just heard in the past 24 hours that there is no interest in the players the Cubs are willing to trade like Soriano, Zambrano, and Grabow. We also heard that the Cubs have no interest in trading impending free agent Carlos Pena and veteran outfielder Marlon Byrd which is somewhat of a shock.

In all honesty; I am a bubbling kettle right now because of the comments from our GM Jim Hendry. Comments like "I am not going to trade anyone who can help next season" "We are only a couple of moves away from competing" and my favorite "As a big market club you cannot rebuild." In this post I will show you how idiotic and ridiculous these comments are.

First up is "I am not going to trade anyone who can help next season."
-- I will give Hendry credit for this one it would be stupid to trade players like Starlin Castro, Darwin Barney, Matt Garza, Chris Carpenter, etc.. but those are not the only players Jimbo is talking about. He labels Jeff Baker, Blake DeWitt, Randy Wells, etc.. in this group? I am sorry there are dozens of Bakers, DeWitts, etc. out there right now not playing or in the minors. No reason to keep them when you can obtain prospects for anyone of them and give younger players a shot at the ML.

Next a Hendry staple "We are only a couple of moves away from competing."
--This is also true if the couple of moves are firing Hendry and Kenney and hiring competent management but he is not talking about that is he? This has been a Hendry saying since the beginning to make it sound like he knows what he is doing. The fact is he does not and is just trying to divert the problems away from him and on others.

Finally; "As a big market club you cannot rebuild."
--Seriously, no matter how bad, not even 20+ games under .500, you don't change what you are doing? First off big market teams do not end up 20+ games under .500. The premise of his argument is completely flawed! Lets look at the Red Sox and Yankees; the two biggest markets ahead of the Cubs. The last time either one of them ended the season 10 games under .500 was the Yankees in 1992 and the Red Sox in 1966! The fact is big market teams rarely are this bad and because of that his statement should result in his firing alone because he just does not get it!

To me Hendry really signed over the team when he decided not to trade the players he should have traded. Their is only a couple of reason to not trade Pena and only one of them is legitimate.

1. The Cubs are planning on extending Pena. If they do this they are already waiving the white flag on Pujols and Fielder. No excuse to extend them without courting Pena!

2. No player in minors to fill in this year for 1st or next season. Tyler Colvin and there is a guy named LaHair in AAA that is hitting .330 with 29 homers and 79 RBI. One of those guys is a nice stopgap for the rest of this season. Why the Cubs are so concerned about going into next season without a 1st baseman is beyond me. They did it last season! Even if they miss out of Fielder, Pujols, and Pena does not come back there is still guys out there on the market that can fill 1st like Nick Swisher, Lance Berkman, Micheal Cuddyer, Casey Kotchman, or even the power hitting Wily Mo Pena. I can even argue that the Cubs should sign Cuddyer regardless if they retain Pena or not! Not to mention there is a thing called the trade market. This excuse is pathetic and so are the people using it.

3. They are looking to keep Pena in their good graces and make it look like their is interest in resigning him. I can kind of understand the logic but everyone knows this is a business!

4. The Cubs were not getting enough value for him. I call BS on this, the Pirates were offering at least one top 20 prospect, one mid level, and paying half his salary.

5. The Cubs rather land a supplementary pick from him by offering arbitration and him signing elsewhere. Really gutsy call and not a good move for the Cubs.

6. Ricketts put a stop on having Hendry make any moves because he won't be making the moves this off season. This is rumored and if true I have no problem with what they did. In addition to this the rumor states Ricketts told Hendry to place all high priced vets on waivers in August and hope someone claims them. All Ricketts is looking for is salary relief for players like Z, Soriano, Grabow, Pena, etc... If this in fact is what happened I commend Ricketts for finally stepping up and smacking out into the seats.

Other Notes...

- The Cubs are expected to put a claim on Wandy Rodriguez and the Astros are expected to seek just salary relief in return so they will let him go without player compensation. The Cubs could finally have another solid lefty in the rotation.

- The Cubs are expected to place nearly every player on waivers except the "youngsters."

- The Rangers called on Marmol and offered Chris Davis, Robbie Erlin, and Cody Buckel but the Cubs said no. Hard to turn down that trade offer.

- Ricketts really likes the idea of Brian Cashman being the next manager of the Chicago Cubs. Ricketts could pull the trigger on a new GM and manager before a new team President. A source very close to Tom Ricketts said "he finally wants a couple of his guys in here."

Until Next Time....

Fukudome Trade Details and My Take...

2011-07-28T14:58:00.000-05:00

The Chicago Cubs traded Kosuke Fukudome to the Cleveland Indians for prospect pitcher Carlton Smith and OF Abner Abreu. The Cubs will reportedly pay 3.9 million of the 4.6 million left on Fukudome’s contract. In a corresponding move the Cubs have recalled Tyler Colvin to Chicago.

The Cubs have been rumored to have a deal in place with the Indians for a week now but the Indians wanted to see what Beltran and Rasmus were doing before they pulled the trigger. The Cubs were also given two choices in the deal; to pay the majority of the contract and receive their pick of two players off a list given to them by the Indians or to pay none of the contract and take a PTBNL in the deal. The Cubs made the right decision.

Carlton Smith is a 25 year old righty who has pitched both in the bullpen and rotation. Smith has 7 minor league seasons under his belt and has never spent time in the majors. In those 7 seasons he has a 36-28 record with a 4.21 ERA. He has pitched a total of 535 innings, gave up 532 hits, and struck out 347. He by no means is a guy who will miss a lot of bats but could be projected to join the bullpen for the Cubs sometime this season.

Abner Abreu is considered the prize in the deal according to scouts. Even though Abreu is projected as an outfielder he is more of an athlete having played OF, SS, 2B, and 3rd in his young minor league career. Abreu is only 21 years old and needs some polishing before he becomes anything too special. In 5 seasons he traveled from rookie ball to high A ball before his 21st birthday. In 5 seasons he has hit .267 with 38 homers 42 SB and a .311 OBP. He has a very high ceiling and could be something really special by the time he is 25.

In the end the Cubs got exactly what they wanted in a trade for Fukudome; SOMETHING! The market for Fukudome was petty weak and I was even hearing teams like the Brewers wanted the Cubs to pay most of his contract and get a PTBNL in return so all in all this was a good move for Jim Hendry. Fukudome has been a solid baseball player for the Cubs. He has played stellar defense in RF, showed what it is like to have plate discipline, and played hard all the time. The fact is Fukudome is not worth the contract he signed and this should be a learning experience for the Cubs and all of baseball that stats don’t always translate. I am just glad the Cubs got two solid young guys for a guy with only 13 RBIs this season. In the end I give this trade a B. What do you think?

Until Next Time…

Rumoring Around...

2011-07-26T21:08:00.002-05:00

A lot of these were updated on my twitter so those of you who follow me this is old news-

- Carlos Pena’s trade talk is severely exaggerated according to sources. Even though the Pirates seem like the front runners to land him.

- The Cubs are close to trading Fukduome according to sources and Bruce Levine. The Indians remain a likely destination with the Brewers and two other teams in the mix.

- The Cubs number one target is off-season is Prince Fielder regardless of “other talk.” Carlos Pena is plan B because Pujols is likely to stay in St. Louis according to sources.

- The first outfielder to be brought to the ML after one is traded is not Brett Jackson but Tyler Colvin. In my opinion they need to bring Jackson up first.

- The Cubs called on James Shields before he was pulled off the trade market by the Rays.

- A source close to Tom Ricketts said he will “evaluate the entire baseball operation that is the Chicago Cubs.” This is including the affiliates of the Cubs as well. The source also said “he is not afraid to make drastic changes if he feels it benefits the Cubs, the fans, and the city of Chicago.” A lot can be speculated from this; anything from Stadium renovations, to a fire sale, to many coaching changes, to anything really.

Until Next Time..

Cubs Rumors- Pena, Dbacks, Prospects, Fukudome, and Soriano

2011-07-25T15:03:00.003-05:00

Fukudome is drawing interest from 4 teams. Levine listed the Indians as one and I am hearing the Brewers might be one of the four as well.

- The Yankees are willing to take Soriano and half his contract from the Cubs but they want Marmol to come with him. That scenario is unlikely according to a Cubs source.

- Kevin Slowey is on the Cubs radar even though they are sellers. Slowey has been very good for the Twins even though he is not a strike out machine many consider him a nice #3/#4 starter in the NL. He is 39-21 in his career with 488 IP and a 4.43 ERA. He does pitch to contact but does not walk guys. Would be a very nice addition to the Cubs staff.

- Rob Biertempfel from the Pittsburgh Tribune said the Pirates are in on Carlos Pena.

- A tweet from Jon Heyman says Carlos Pena “will almost surely be moved” and said the Dbacks “could be in play there.” We at HSC said weeks ago that the Dbacks had interest in Pena, Ramirez, and Wood. Since then we have learned that Ramirez and Wood will remain with the Cubs at least until the end of the season. Wood is expected to sign an extension while Ramirez could hammer out a deal as well.

- A source of mine chimed in and said the Cubs are actively scouting the entire Dbacks farm system. Most notably left-hander Wade Miley, 3B Ryan Wheeler, 3B/1B Matthew Davidson, 1B/3B Bobby Borchering, and RHP Charles Brewer.

- That same source of mine told also told me the Cubs would consider trading anyone except the “impactful youth” for the Pirates young OF Starling Marte, LHP Rudy Owens, or LHP Jeff Locke. He said the Cubs would in fact entertain dealing Marmol, Marshall, or even Garza if they get two of those players. The Cubs of course really value is Jameson Taillon as well but he is not going anywhere.

- Marshall is not available for anyone according to team officials.

- John Grabow is likely to be dealt this week.

- Alex Presley’s thumb injury increases the need for an outfielder tweets Ken Rosenthal. This confirms some rumors through my sources that the Pirates have called the Cubs on Fukudome, Johnson, Colvin, Byrd, and even Soriano.

- Another source said the Pirates will likely show they are “all in” before the deadline by making some big splashes via trade. A big splash for the Pirates would be acquiring an impact hitter like Beltran, Pence, and some can argue Soriano.

- Teams have called on Geovany Soto but the asking price is “higher than Beltran” said one baseball official.

- The Shark has been gaining trade interest and the Cubs are entertaining the idea of trading him (if he will finally accept one).

Make sure you follow me on Twitter to get the most up to date rumors and news regarding your Chicago Cubs before the deadline!!!! You can get information first at HotStoveCubbiesOnTwitter!

Cubs Round-Up: Signings, Soriano, Ramirez, Gillick

2011-07-22T21:48:00.002-05:00

- The Cubs have signed Paul Hoilman and Trevor Gretzky. The Cubs are also very close to signing Shawon Dunston Jr. and Dan Vogelbach.

- According to Bruce Levine the Cubs are willing to absorb a high percentage of Soriano’s contract to get him traded. Soriano is owed 60 million over this year and the next 3. It is undetermined what high percentage the Cubs could be talking. I think the Cubs would eat close to 30 million to get a deal done.

- The Red Sox must have heard the news because they are interested in Soriano if they cannot land Carlos Beltran. The Red Sox would use Soriano in a platoon area in RF and DH. He would also provide insurance for Ortiz incase they do not sign him to an extension.

- Aramis Ramirez will stay a Cub according to ESPN Chicago and said he will not waive his NTC. The Cubs are now rumored to be preparing an offer for Aram to stay in Chicago for 3+ years.

- Several teams have interest in John Grabow and Marlon Byrd.

- Fukudome is drawing interest from several clubs but most notably the Indians who are looking to upgrade defense and depth in their outfield.

- The Cubs will not trade 3 of their outfielders. Only two are likely to be dealt this season and the most likely to hang on is Marlon Byrd because of his presence in the clubhouse. Not to mention he is a great mentor to the other younger outfielders and players.

- The Suntimes has a piece on why the Cubs should keep Jim Hendry. Although I give Wittenmyer credit on taking the opposition, I don’t know how you can sell that to fans without them tearing it apart.

- So while some media outlets shot down the rumor or Gillick and Hahn coming to Chicago; I have the exact opposition. Sources have indicated that Ricketts does have a short list of “baseball people” he wants to come in and help the organization. The list includes the usual suspects and some new names as well-

Billy Beane

Josh Byrnes

Rick Hahn

Pat Gillick

Brian Cashman

Mike Arbuckle

Ned Collett

Al Avila

Jason McLeod

Ben Cherington

Andrew Friedman

It should be noted that by “baseball people” the list is likely to include a replacement for President, Vice President, GM, and other baseball execs. A name that is extremely intriguing is Mike Arbuckle who was the mastermind behind the Phillies World Championship team by drafting Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, Ryan Howard, and Cole Hamels. He also drafted guys like Pat Burrell, Scott Rolen, and Randy Wolf. He should be strongly considered as a GM or at the very least an assistant GM role. He is currently the senior adviser to GM Dayton Moore.

- Bruce Levine reports today that Pat Gillick is open to talking to the Cubs. Gillick told the Sun-Times Thursday that although he is happy with his consulting job with the Phillies he would be open to leaving for a president level position with the Cubs or another team. Gillick is the ideal Cubs President and I hope Ricketts can make it happen.

- If the Cubs do clean house I think the Cubs should have short list for the President and GM positions. Pick two of Billy Beane, Rick Hahn, Pat Gillick, Brian Cashman Mike Arbuckle, and Andrew Friedman and I think the Cubs would be set in management for years to come. I see Rick Hahn and Arbuckle not in the running for President but I can see the entire list being candidates for GM.

Until next Time...

The Guys Leaving and their Replacements

2011-07-20T14:58:00.003-05:00

- Jim Hendry explains his approach to the trade market in the Des Moines Register which I don’t completely agree with. I think players like Colvin, Dempster, Baker, DeWitt, Byrd, Marmol, and players like that should be dangled while players like Castro, Barney, Jackson, and other youth should be untouchable. You can find the link here

- CubbiesCrib takes a look at Hendry’s Trade Metric and applies it to this team and I think they do a great job of doing so.

- Foxsports has some of the latest on the possibly of changes in the front office-

Speculation persists that owner Tom Ricketts might hire Hall of Fame inductee Pat Gillick as club president. In theory, Gillick could retain Hendry, and the two could work together to fix the club. But the entire idea seems far-fetched; Cubs fans want change, and both Hendry and manager Mike Quade seem likely to be replaced.

The real intrigue would begin once Ricketts began his search for a new GM.

White Sox assistant GM Rick Hahn is generally regarded as the game’s leading GM candidate, but many in the industry believe that the Cubs’ job also might draw interest from some of the game’s top current GMs - FOX SPORTS

Now the Cubs have had a slew of rumors that indicate that Quade and Hendry are likely to be on their way out with their replacements rumored from Gillick to Beane to Cashman to Hahn for Hendry and Sandberg replacing Quade. But I am going to go out on a limb here and state by the start of next season you will not see Hendry, Kenney, Quade, or any of the coaching staff besides maybe Jaramillo gone. I think Ricketts has had enough of this and is listening to the fans thus making changes.

- Soriano did not know he had a NTC but he probably won’t have to be using it because his trade value is low. Soriano did say he would not stand in the way of the Cubs trading him.

- Ramirez will likely not waive his NTC until August when his family goes back to the Dominican Republic for school.

- Big rumor states the Cubs are planning on offering Ramirez a 3 year deal worth 40 million dollars plus incentives to see if he really wants to remain a Cub. A friend of Aramis said he would would want a similar contract to what Adrian Beltre got from the Rangers (5 years 80 million) on the open market. I have not problem extending Aramis just not beyond 3 years or 50 million but I can see him getting 5 years 80 million from a team like the Angels or Reds.

Slow day for Cubs rumors, maybe the calm before the storm?

Until Next Time...

28 under 28: Indians, White Sox, Phillies, Dbacks, and Jays

2011-07-19T15:17:00.002-05:00

In our final edition of “28 under 28” we take a look at the Indians, White Sox, Phillies, Dbacks and Jays.

Indians

Carlos Santana-C/1st-Indians

I view along with others that Carlos Santana is the next wave of superstar catchers in the ML. Santana is hitting .231 with 15 homers and 46 RBI in 90 games this season. He is also sporting a .990 Fld% and a 22% CS rate. The Fld% is right in line with Hill and above Soto while his CS rate is right in line with both. But it should be noted that he has one of the best arms in the league. Santana is your dual threat catcher that calls a great game and can hit. He also is also a switch-hitter and is only 25 years old. He would provide the Cubs with the catcher that Geovany Soto was suppose to be. The Indians are looking for offensive help in the outfield and infield. They could target Byrd, Colvin, Pena, and Ramirez. I think the Cubs should offer Soto, Pena, and Ramirez for Santana and Chisenhall.

Trade- 5%

White Sox

Dayan Viciedo-1st/3rd/OF-White Sox

The one prospect of the White Sox you really, really, I mean really; want! Viciedo is only 22 years old and is nicknamed “The Tank” he is a big guy. He is rated the 61st best prospect in baseball and he shows why. This year in just 91 games he is hitting .317 with a .368 OBP and 16 homers while playing 3rd, RF, and 1st. Not the best defensive guy but he will maintain with his bat. If the Cubs traded for Viciedo he would fulfill the Cubs need for a 3rd baseman in 2012 and beyond. The White Sox could look to get more youth and prospects for Dayan but only being 4.5 games out of first in the division they could be looking for both pitching and power. The White Sox could target Garza or even Zambrano to bolster their rotation. They could also check on Marlon Byrd or Alfonso Soriano to upgrade their outfield since both are hitting better than Pierre and Rios both. The White Sox main issue is their bullpen which the Cubs could offer Marmol, Grabow, Marshall, Smardzija, and/or Wood in order to land Viciedo. Another thing that would make sense is the fact that Aramis Ramirez is said to not want to waive his NTC because he does not want to uproot his family. If he is dealt to the Southside he would not have to and Aram would be a huge upgrade at 3rd for the Sox. I think the Cubs and Sox match up well for a trade.

Trade-35%

Phillies

Matt Rizzotti-1st-Phillies

The 25 year old Rizzotti is a good young first baseman but is blocked by a guy named Ryan Howard. Rizzotti is hitting .295 with season with a .385 OBP and 18 homers in 93 games in AA. The Phillies could make him available and they have been scouting Marlon Byrd recently. A Byrd for Rizzotti makes sense for both teams because neither one fit into the clubs future plans. Rizzotti could fulfill the Cubs need for a prospect 1st baseman for the future and even next season.

Trade-30%

Diamondbacks

Bobby Borchering-1st/3rd-Dbacks

The 20 year old Borchering was selected 16th overall in the 2009 draft. In two years he has went from rookie ball to low A ball to high A ball. Borchering needs help defensively but has been known to make the highlight plays. The switch-hitter has logged time at 1st and 3rd and has had some success with the bat. Bochering is having a 2011 break out season hitting .266 with 18 homers and 68 RBI in 90 games. The Diamondbacks have been linked to the usual suspects like Wood, Pena, and Aramis Ramirez but could also target pitching help. Out of all the deals this one I see happening the most sense his name came up in rumors regarding the Cubs lately.

Trade-55%

Blue Jays

JP Arencibia-C-Jays and Travis d’Arnaud-C-Jays

The Jays have two catching prospects that are only 3 years apart in age. One is currently in the majors struggling some while the other is in AA tearing the cover off the ball. Because of this the Jays should and will dangle one of the catching prospects to fulfill another need on the field. Unlike most teams the Jays don’t need many upgrades except for the outfield. They would likely look at youth rather than veterans so Tyler Colvin could interest them as well as some other young outfielders. JP and Travis should be able to land them some young impact players. JP is hitting just .211 with 12 homers but is expect to develop into an average hitter with good power to all fields. d’Arnaud is the guy I would target because he is only 22 years old and is hitting .330 with a .398 OBP, 12 homers and 42 RBI in AA. Travis is also better defensively than JP; Travis has a .992 Fld% and a 31% CS rate in AA while JP has a .991 and 23% CS rate. Both would be a big addition to the Cubs.

Trade- 15%

That concludes our “28 players under 28 years old.” I now encourage you, the reader’ to give me your input and contribute to the site. If good enough I will post it on my blog for everyone to see. Here is what I require-

Name/Screen Name
What player the Cubs should target less than 28 years of age.
Why the Cubs should target that player.
What kind of impact that player could have for the Cubs.
What the trading team would want in return and why.
Give me an actual trade scenario regarding both teams.
Finally any additional information that helps your case.

The good entries will make it on my blog, just post your entries under the comment section below and I will read each and every one.

Thanks and Good Luck!!!!

28 under 28: Giants, Nationals, and A's

2011-07-19T15:09:00.001-05:00

In this post of “28 under 28” we take a look at the Giants, Nationals, and Athletics.

Giants

Brandon Belt-1st/OF-Giants

Brandon Belt busted on the scene this year with the Giants and is considered their 1st baseman of the future but things did not go according to plan. Belt has been up and down a couple of times this season and has played LF and 1st for the ML club. Belt is not showing the promise the Giants expected and is only hitting .211 with 1 homer. The Giants could use Belt as trade bait to improve their offense which has been struggling without Posey. The Giants could target a guy like Pena or Ramirez and dangle Belt to land one. Brandon Belt could be the 1st baseman of the future and would still allow them to make a run at Prince Fielder since Belt is only 23 years old. Or they could just go with youth and start him full time at first in 2012.

Trade- 30%

Nationals

Derek Norris-C-Nationals

The Nationals defensive catcher that has been compared to Pudge is more defensive minded than offensive but his HR numbers don’t support that. This year he is hitting .196 with a .352 OBP and 12 homers in 64 games in AA. He also is sporting a 37% CS rate and a .991 Fld%. In 2010, his CS rate was at 51% which his unreal. The Nationals would likely be looking for upgrades in their outfield and could target guys like Ha, Golden, Marwin Gonzalez, and/or Tyler Colvin. Norris could be the franchise back stop the Cubs are looking for since Soto does not seem to be the real deal.

Trade- 10%

A’s

Chris Carter-1st-A’s

While Chris Carter has been in the league since 2005 he is only 24 years old and still has good upside. Carter is never going to hit for average or HR but could provide the Cubs with depth in their farm system at 1st. Oakland could be looking at a young arm for their bullpen or some upgrades in the outfield. Carter is a career .281 hitter with a .378 OBP and 158 homers in 7 seasons in the minors. He would be a nice piece for the Cubs system but not a necessary one.

Trade- 15%

Up Next on “28 under 28” we look at the rest; Indians, Jays, White Sox, Phillies, and Dbacks.

Until Next Time…

Cubs Talk, No Walk...

2011-07-18T20:15:00.000-05:00

With the trade deadline approaching talks have increased but moves have not begun for the Cubs. Here is the latest-

- The Cubs signed Dave Bush to a minor league contract.

- Aramis Ramirez option does not vest for 2012 meaning the team he is traded to will only have to worry about what he is being paid this season. Because of this he is regarded as one of the top targets in the trade market.

- The Pirates are still very much interested in Ramirez.

- Jim Hendry has no interest in trading Dempster or Garza but he is likely to listen to offers.

- Bruce Levine said the Braves and Phillies have done extensive scouting on Marlon Byrd. The Pirates, Rangers, and Red Sox also have interest in Byrd.

- In the Chicago Tribune they credit an unconfirmed rumor that the Yankees are looking at Alfonso Soriano, Sean Marshall, and/or Aramis Ramirez. This report can be credited with a flurry of emails my way along with other sites adding to the rumor. It is said that the Yankees would be requiring the Cubs to pay a “large portion” of Soriano’s contract and include a player like Ramirez or Marshall to get a deal done that includes prospects going the Cubs way. The thought is Soriano would take over the DH role and play of LF for the Yankees PT while Marshall would be an ideal set-up man for the Yankees. If Ramirez is included he would man third base until Arod came back which would not be until around playoff time. Ramirez would be good insurance for the Yankees if Arod suffers a set back. Even if he does not, there is a thought that Ramirez could DH with Soriano in LF, and Arod at third leaving Posada a weapon off the bench. The only additional information for my emails that is not found online is that the Yankees are willing to pay 30 of the 63 million left on his contract.

- Carlos Pena has been getting more interest for the Angels, Diamondbacks, and Giants recently who are all looking for offensive upgrades. Ramirez is also gaining interest from the same three clubs.

- John Grabow and Fukudome’s interest is on the decline but could pick up once other bats and lefty relievers come off the board.

- Reed Johnson is looking like a sought after playoff chip for contending teams. The Cubs may get a low prospect for the outfielder.

- Detroit, Cleveland, and Cincy are all looking to upgrade their pitching and have scouted the Cubs. Several rumors found my in box regarding Z being reunited with Dusty Baker in Cincy. I have also heard the Indians have interest in Randy Wells (why, I don’t know).

- Jeff Baker will not be traded this season and is considered an affordable option for next year’s team.

Until Next Time..

Here Come the RUMORS.....

2011-07-14T15:40:00.001-05:00

- The Indians are looking to upgrade their offense, especially the corners of the outfield and infield. The Indians have already contact and had preliminary discussions with the Cubs about Carlos Pena, Aramis Ramirez, Marlon Byrd, and even Alfonso Soriano. The Indians said they would be able to add payroll but taking on a “significant” salary at the deadline is not in the cards. So in the case of Soriano and Ramirez I think the Cubs would have to chip in quite a bit of cash. On the Cubs side, team officials confirm the talks and one source said the Cubs have interest and are asking about Lonnie Chisenhall and/or Carlos Santana in a deal for their power bats.

- The Tigers are looking for pitching help and are targeting Ryan Dempster, Matt Garza, and Carlos Zambrano.

- The Giants are looking for bats and maybe looking at Pena or Ramirez to fill that need. The Cubs have scouted Brandon Belt and Madison Bumgardner in the past few weeks.

- Speaking of the Giants, there is a rumor that a Zito and Rowand for Soriano and Byrd were discussed during the All-star break.

- Brian Cashman could be a serious candidate for the Cubs GM job if Hendry is let go.

- The Cubs have been scouting the Rays entire system. Rumors say the Cubs like Jeremy Hellickson, Alex Torres, and Matt Moore.

Until Next Time..

Things; they are a changing....

2011-07-13T21:50:00.000-05:00

Here is the latest from the Cubs rumor mill-

- The Pirates have interest in several Cub players including Zambrano, Soriano, Byrd, Fukudome, Ramirez, and Pena.

- The Cubs promoted Brett Jackson and Ryan Flaherty to AAA Iowa and both could be MLB bound in August depending on who they trade.

- Flaherty is view by some the possible starting 3rd baseman next season if they don’t trade for one or keep Aramis. The 3rd baseman market is really weak next season.

- Cub sources said they could see Soriano being an August deal just like Derrek Lee was.

- San Francisco is very interested in Koyie Hill. I would trade him there for a bucket of balls!

- Rumor out of the White Sox organization is that they would consider a cross town bad contract trade of Dunn for Soriano. Soriano has 3 years 54 million left while Dunn has 3 years 43 million so they would have to make up the difference somewhere.

- Speaking of the White Sox, if they make Gavin Floyd available the Cubs will be interested.

- Levine says Aramis maybe back next season but not a chance Fukudome is back.

- The Cubs number one player on their list for next season is Prince Fielder.

- Sources say Billy Beane would be Ricketts first choice for GM next season if Hendry is fired. Sources close to Billy Beane say there is “mutual interest”

- Mike Quade could be on his way out whether Ricketts likes it or not, that is if Hendry and/or Kenney is fired. Reports are saying the new GM will “have his pick of staff” that includes assistants, scouts, manager, coaches, etc..

- Sandberg would not rule out coming back to the Cubs to manage. The full story is here- SandbergCubs

Until Next Time..

28 under 28: Dodgers,M's, and Orioles

2011-07-13T21:44:00.002-05:00

This entry for “28 under 28” we take a look at the Dodgers, Mariners, and Orioles.

Dodgers

James Loney-1b- Dodgers

Loney was once the most sought after prospect in the Dodgers system and now the Dodgers are considering non-tendering him before next season. Loney maybe your classic “needs a change of scenery” guy and at the age of 28 he maybe worth taking a gamble on. Loney is still somewhat serviceable putting together a .268 average with 4 homers and 3 SB this season but the Cubs would hope the change of scenery would cause him to put up numbers he did from 2006 to 2009 when he posted a .293 average with a .352 OBP and averaged about 14 homers. The Cubs could likely get Loney for a midlevel prospect or two. Definitely worth the gamble to me.

Trade happening- 15%

Mariners

Justin Smoak-1b-Mariners

I am a big Smoak fan and thought the Cubs should have traded for him before the Rangers sent him to Texas. Smoak is only 25 years old and still needs some work but I think this kid will be special in the very near future. Smoak is hitting .229 with a .327 OBP and 12 homers in 84 games for the M’s. The Mariners could do a Carlos Pena for Justin Smoak swap to add more power to the corners. They could also be really interested Aramis Ramirez as well. Adding Smoak does not mean the Cubs would not go for Prince or Pujols but it does mean they will give him a chance to prove the Cubs don’t need them.

Trade happening- 10%

Orioles

Josh Bell-3b-Orioles

Josh Bell is only 24 years old but has spent 7 seasons in the minors where he has posted a .283 average with a .350 OBP. He was labeled as the 34 best prospect in baseball but has fallen down the list in 2011. The switch hitting 3rd baseman could be made available for upgrades to the rotation and outfield. Not to mention the O’s have a great stocked farm system filled with infielders. They could look at Tyler Colvin, Reggie Golden, or Jae-Hoon Ha. The Cubs could continue to develop Bell in the minors until he is ready or have him start in 2012 at 3rd and go through some growing pains. Josh Bell is a lot more available than you would think.

Trade happening- 15%

Look for the next addition of “28 under 28” to include the Giants, Nationals, and A’s.

28 Under 28: Rangers and Angels

2011-07-12T16:25:00.000-05:00

As we continue “28 players under 28 years old” we take a look at the Rangers and Angels.

Rangers-

Chris Davis- 1b/3b- Rangers

Chris Davis was once targeted for Chicago before Robinson Chirinos was traded to the Rays as a part of a deal for Matt Garza. The Cubs idea was to have Davis play 1st for the Cubs. The Cubs still remain interest in Davis and rumors have been circulating that he could be dangled for a guy like Ryan Dempster or Carlos Zambrano. Davis could provide the Cubs will stability at 1st or 3rd base this season and beyond. He could fill the void if and when Aramis Ramirez leaves or if the Cubs miss on their plan A, B, and C for 1st base. Davis is only 25 years old but has 6 minor league seasons under his belt. In his minor league career he has hit .316 with a .374 OBP 16 SB, 114 HR, and 398 RBI. It finally looks like he is coming into his own and is ready for everyday ABs at the ML level and with the Cubs I think they can provide that for him.

I put this trade at 50%

Marin Perez-SP- Rangers

Know as the future of Rangers baseball I know prying him away will be as hard as trading for Pujols! Perez is a 20 year old lefty who can hit 94 on the gun. He is ranked the 24 best prospect in baseball and is doing really well in AA this year. He has posted a 3.16 ERA with a 4-2 record; in 88 innings pitched he has 83 Ks. The Rangers would ask for more than Z or Dempster for him, they would likely want Garza. If the Cubs acquired him he would be the 2nd player under 22 years of age on the Cubs 25 man roster.

I put this trade at 5%

Angels-

Mark Trumbo- 1b- Angels

Why would the Angels trade away a power hitting 1st baseman who is only 26 years old and having success at the ML? Simple! They have Kendry Morales coming back next season and they are looking to add power to other areas so they maybe willing to sacrifice a guy like Trumbo. The Angels are only likely to deal Trumbo for an impact player this season for the playoff push which is why they are targeting the Cubs Carlos Pena and Aramis Ramirez. If the Angels acquired both the Cubs would obviously demand Trumbo (not to mention the Angels would be replacing him at first with Pena). Trumbo is hitting .260 with 17 homers, 41 RBI, and 8 SB in 84 games for the Angels. Trumbo would allow the Cubs to stop their 1st base free agent search before it starter and allow them to go with the “play the kids” mentality. Acquiring Trumbo means no Pujols and no Fielder.

I put this trade at 25%

Hank Conger- C- Angels

A 24 year old switch hitting catcher is considered the Angels backstop of the future, he is also trade bait for the Angels. The Angels would dangle him for the same guys they would dangle Trumbo for. Conger has had limited time in the ML so we will take a look at this minor league stats. Conger is rated the 84th best prospect in baseball and showed why in 2010 batting .300 with a .385 OBP and 11 homers in 108 games. Conger also has a plus arm, great glove, and calls really good game. He has been compared to Johnny Estrada and Greg Zaun.

I put this trade at 25%

That does it for this addition of 28 under 28… Tune in next time for the Dodgers, Mariners, and Orioles.

Garza is Going to Cost You and Quick Hits....

2011-07-11T15:17:00.000-05:00

According to both Phil Rogers and Nick Cafardo the Red Sox have Matt Garza at the top of their wish list for pitchers. This is a very curious situation because at the end of June Peter Gammons reported that the Red Sox cannot add payroll this year which means they would have to have the trading team eat money or trade for an equal contract in return. Since then it has come out they will be able to add “some” money for the right situation. The thing that also makes this really interesting is that Jim Hendry recently said he will not trade away players that are young and under team control which says Garza is likely to stay put. But with both reports coming out and the intriguing possibility that the Yankees may get involved as well if Garza is made available it puts Hendry in a tough spot. If the Yankees and Red Sox both make plays for Garza the Cubs could actually get a much better package for him now than what they originally traded for him.

Either way the Cubs are in the driving seat here. They do not have to trade Garza so they can set their price for him as high as they want. I am in favor of keeping Garza, he has been a great clubhouse guy, cheerleader, and best overall pitcher this season. Having said that if the Red Sox come calling with a ton of prospects it would be hard for Jim Hendry and the Cubs to say no. Another thing the Cubs could do is lump a bad contract with Garza; maybe Zambrano or Soriano? Given the fact the Red Sox cannot add much to payroll I would assume this would not work for them. So with all that known I offer the Red Sox this deal.

Red Sox get: SP Matt Garza, OF Kosuke Fukudome, and CF Marlon Byrd (they have a total of 10 million left on their contracts for 2011) Cubs pay 5 million of it.

Cubs get: CF Jacoby Ellsbury P Anthony Ranaudo, 3B Will Middlebrook, SP Felix Doubront, C Ryan Lavarnway, and IF Heiker Meneses

Before I get raked over the coals I first want to say that this is what I would want for those three players if I am Jim Hendry. I would insist that the Red Sox include Ellsbury in any deal for Garza and in return I would fulfill their other need at the deadline and that is RF help. Fukudome and Byrd would strengthen the outfield tremendously defensively and lessen the blow of losing Ellsbury. A lot of you think the Red Sox would be overpaying and I agree! They have to so they can obtain Garza and keep him out of Yankee pinstripes.

What the Cubs will be getting in this deal is close to perfect. I will break it down for you.

Jacoby Ellsbury- We all know what happened in 2010 and how he was almost on the verge of being traded but 2011 is a new year. Ellsbury is hitting .316 with a .377 OBP. He has hit 11 homers and drove in 49 in 361 ABs. He is your prototypical leadoff hitter and has stolen 70 bases in 2009 and has already swiped 28 bags this season. Ellsbury is 28 years old and would be the Cubs leadoff hitter for years to come not to mention having him in CF with Brett Jackson in RF and eventually Matt Szczur in their as well. What an exciting outfield and the reason why I insist on having him in a deal for Garza.

Anthony Ranaudo- Ranked the 37th best prospect in baseball by Baseball America’s midseason report he is a must have for the Cubs. His only 21 but on the fast track to the majors. In one year he has jumped for lower A to high A and is now 5-5 with a 3.84 ERA. He is a strike out pitcher but has not polished his stuff yet. Many compare his stuff to Pineda in Seattle which tells you why they are so high on him.

Will Middlebrook- A guy hampered by injuries and some off the field issues; he maybe a give or take for most of you but I see a guy that could fill the Aramis Ramirez void. Middlebrook will not be found on any Red Sox top 10 list but that may change after this season. Early on scouts suggested Middlebrook to be a defensive minded 3rd baseman in the ML who would not hit for power or average and could struggle to hit past A ball. He has now changed his batting stance and is making scouts change their opinions. Middlebrook has played in low and high A ball along with AA. This year between the two leagues he is hitting .316 with a .361 OBP with 12 homers and 6 SB in just 274 ABs. There is talk he will be in AAA before the season ends.

Felix Doubront- This pitcher was just called up to the ML to relieve for Boston at the age of 23. Scouts say he should be a starter at the ML level but the Red Sox are currently using him in the pen. In 2010 he had an 8-3 record with a 2.81 ERA in 16 starts. Very good stats for a 23 year old lefty. He could be end up being the prize of this deal.

Ryan Lavarnway- This guy went from the 16th best prospects in the Sox system to potential starting catcher in 2012. Lavarnway is not a defensive catcher but is good enough to work a ML pitching staff. He has a decent arm but need refined in calling games. His bat will make you overlook his defensive liabilities. So far in 2011 between AA and AAA he has hit .303 with a .377 OBP 21 homers and 60 RBI. He has been consistent pretty much throughout his minor league career which is a great sign. Adding a guy like Lavarnway who is only 23 could allow the Cubs to trade Soto down the road as Lavarnway continues to develop. Lavarnway could be ML ready in 2012 but would do much better if he continued to work on his defense for a year or two.

Heiker Meneses – A middle infielder who is only 20 years old and still a ways away from the majors. He is a wild card but he has intangibles that have me including him in this deal. He is a switch-hitter, can play all infield positions and even talk he can handle the outfield. The Red Sox signed him at the age of 16 and of course struggled in 3 years of rookie ball. Now the 19 year old who recently made the jump for A to AA is doing very well. Between the two squads he is hitting .286 with a .361 OBP 19 SB and 2 homers. He will need a lot more time in the minors but if he continues to do well see himself as a utility player or better in the ML by 2014-2015.

As you can see I believe Matt Garza is very important to this team going into the future and anything less than the package I suggest we get for him along with Byrd and Fukudome would be just silly. The Cubs sent 5 players to the Rays for Garza before the season. Three of the players were listed in CCO.com top 10 prospects. Chris Archer was labeled the Cubs number 1 prospect by Baseball America so when you compare that to what the Cubs are receiving this deal is not “as crazy” as it seems.

QUICK HITS-
- Nick Cafardo says the Angels have expressed the most interest in Aramis Ramirez but the Braves, Mariners, and Dbacks also have interest. Something we here at HSC have reported weeks ago.

- While Hendry denies the “rebuilding” stage for the Cubs it looks like they could be heading that way. With Matt Szczur getting the promotion to Daytona other players could get a bump up like Brett Jackson, Brian LaHair, Trey McNutt, and Rafael Dolis depending on who is getting traded at the deadline.

- Cubs could be looking to see what Randy Wells trade value is. He could end up in AAA if he does not pitch better.

- The Diamondbacks and Pirates have big interest in Carlos Pena according to sources.

Until Next Time…

Rumors Rolling IN..

2011-07-09T23:12:00.003-05:00

- The Cubs released Augie Ojeda and Fernando Perez.

- Gordon Wittenmyer says the Cubs are likely to take a pass on trading Zambrano, Dempster, and Garza. On the last two I get but Zambrano?

- The Cubs will not trade Sean Marshall.

- Hendry is receiving a ton of calls about players he is not willing to move. My guess is Castro, Soto, Garza, and Barney.

- The Cubs and Kerry Wood will soon discuss what teams he will be willing to be traded to.

- Levine wonders if the Yankees would have interest in Soriano, Ramirez, and Grabow. I would love for them to take all three!

- Quade was already on a warm seat as Cubs manager but now it may have just hotter after the altercation with Dempster. Dempster is the easiest guy to get along with and yet you manage to rub him the wrong way Quade. Not Good, please bring back Ryno!

- Ivy Report stats the Rangers could have interest in Zambrano if they eat some of his salary. Rumor has it they could offer up Chris Davis and Tanner Scheppers for Big Z.

Until Next Time...

28 under 28: Red Sox and Royals

2011-07-08T15:12:00.002-05:00

As we continue “28 players under 28 years old” we take a look at the Red Sox and Royals, so here we go!

Red Sox-

Lars Anderson-1st Base- Red Sox

Lars Anderson is the definition of a guy with nowhere to go. Lars is considered an “old” prospect because it seems like he has been around forever. Lars has spent 5 seasons in the minors but is only 23 years old. He is a career .276 hitter with a .370 OBP and smacked 60 homeruns in 5 seasons. Lars is the 87th best prospect in baseball is drawing comparisons to anyone from Lyle Overbay to Mark Grace to Aubrey Huff.

Anderson is definitely available and could be dangled for pitching or an outfielder this season. The Red Sox currently have 3 potential 1st baseman on their roster with A-Gon, Ortiz, and Youkilis so the need for Lars is on the decline. I can see the Cubs wanting to install the young first baseman for the rest of the season to replace Pena when he is traded. Lars fits that need. Even if the Cubs sign Prince to a 5 year deal Lars will be 28 by the time his contract expires which is still very young. Hey, it worked for Gaby Sanchez! I could see the Red Sox targeting a guy like Zambrano, Byrd, Wells, or Fukudome. Trading one of those players straight up for Lars makes a ton of sense for both clubs.

In the end I think this deal makes a lot of sense and I put a 40% chance of this happening.

Royals-

Billy Butler-1st Base- Royals

This guy can hit and field 1st very well. He recently signed a team friendly contract and at the time he signed it he was considered the face of the franchise. It would be hard to believe they would trade Butler given the previous statement but enter the young gun Eric Hosmer. Hosmer is younger, has more power, and more upside making Billy Butler available to other teams. Butler could fetch a nice return for the Royals and allow them to build up their rotation and middle infield with young talent. Butler signed a 4 year $30M deal earlier this year so if the Cubs landed him they would have their 1st baseman of the future ready to go at a small price. Butler is a career .298 hitter with a .364 OBP and is good for 15+ homers a year. He also plays really good defense at first and has a career .994 fielding percentage at 1st which is the same number as Carlos Pena and Derrek Lee.

The Royals could look at players like a Geovany Soto, Tyler Colvin, Darwin Barney, Ryan Flaherty, Jay Jackson, Randy Wells, and any other young players in the Cubs system. I also would not be surprised if they looked at Carlos Marmol.

I doubt the Royals would trade Butler unless they are blown away with a deal. I think a Geovany Soto and Carlos Marmol for Butler is something the Royals would look for but it is hard to say. There is a 15% chance a deal like this would happen.

Alex Gordon-3rd/OF-Royals

Naturally a 3rd baseman Alex Gordon has shown he is a damn good outfielder as well. But the thing that sticks out for Gordon is his bat this season. He is hitting .296 with 10 homers and a .363 OBP. He was projected as the next George Brett but did not live up to expectations. Since the move to the outfield he has flourished but the Cubs would not use Gordon in LF, he would be slotted back at his natural position at 3rd base. The only reason the Royals would trade Gordon is because they need to fill holes other places like I described above. The same players talked abut trading for Butler applies to Gordon as well but Gordon I see as less obtainable giving his price and upside.

I see a 10% chance a deal gets made.

Kila Ka’aihue-1st Base- Royals

Kila has done extremely well in the minors but they have not transferred to the ML yet. Kila is another older blocked prospect and seems to be the most available right now. He has 10 seasons in the minors and is a career .267 hitter with a .393 OBP and 160 homers. In the ML he only has 283 ABs which he hit .216 with a .309 OBP and 11 homers. The Cubs could use him as insurance incase they don’t land one of their big free agents, they could also use him to just add depth at 1st base. The Royals are stacked at 1st base so he is being dangled and he would likely just cost the mid-level prospect.

I see this as a minor good move for both clubs which means it has good chance of happening so I put it at 45%.

That does it for Royals and Red Sox… Look for the Rangers and Angels in our next edition of 28 under 28!

Until Next Time…

Out with the Old in with the New!

2011-07-07T21:38:00.000-05:00

Here is the latest with the Cubs rumor and news-

- In case you missed it the Cubs signed SS Enrique Acosta to a 1.1MM bonus. He is considered on the top bats in Latin America at 6-foot-1 and 180 pounds so he could move to an outfield spot or 3rd base. He is only 16 years old.

- The Cubs signed Venezuelan catcher Mark Malave and 3rd baseman Ricardo Marcano who are both 16-years old. Marcano could end up being an outfielder because of his size and Malave could move from catcher as well. Both were highly sought after international free agents and the Cubs are receiving praise around baseball for their money well spent on amateur free agents.

- The Cubs are expected to sign two of their top picks this week. Javier Baez and Zeke DeVoss are the two likely to sign while Daniel Vogelbach may take a while because of his previous commitment to play baseball at the University of Florida. I really hope they sign Vogelbach because he reminds me of a young Mo Vaughn.

- Although Quade and Hendry both seem on the hot seat, Hendry seems more likely to be gone at the end of the season.

- The Cubs front office has thrown around the idea of signing Jimmy Rollins to play 3rd base for the Cubs next season. Rollins has never played 3rd in the majors but would provide the Cubs with a nice top of the lineup switch hitter with really good infield defense.

- The Cubs have discussed internally about the possibility of trading for Hanley Ramirez and placing him at 3rd.

Until Next Time..

28 players under 28 years old: Marlins and Twins

2011-07-07T21:33:00.000-05:00

28 players under 28 years old brings forth the Marlins and Twins-

Marlins-

Christian Yelich-1st Base- Marlins

Yelich is your ideal 1st baseman for the Major Leagues. He is 6-foot-4 lefty with a ton of power and sweet swing. He is the Marlins 3rd best prospect in baseball and ranked #184 overall last season. He is likely to see a huge jump in his prospect ranking after this season considering he is hitting .283 with a .351 OBP, 20 SB, 20 doubles, 8 homers, and 42 RBI in just 74 games. The fact that he is just 19 years old and producing that well in high A ball is pretty good.

The reason Yelich could be available is he has Gaby Sanchez blocking him at 1st. Yelich has played primarily outfield but is not doing well in there so he maybe shifted back to 1st base. The Cubs would want Yelich for many reasons but the main on is they do not have a prospect for 1st base in their system which he would fill. It would also allow the Cubs to sign a guy like Prince Fielder to a 5 year deal thus giving Yelich 5 year to develop in the minor leagues. While Yelich would not give the Cubs immediate impact his impact in the long run will be substantial. The only players you can see the Marlins targeting is young players in the Cubs system like a Brett Jackson, Trey McNutt, or even a Darwin Barney which the Cubs are unlikely to trade.

I see a deal for Yelich being around the 10% mark of happening.

Gaby Sanchez-1st Base- Marlins

Sanchez is the guy blocking Yelich and could be the Marlins new franchise player. Having said that his stock has never been higher and could move him before his stock falls like what they are seeing with Hanley Ramirez right now. Sanchez is 28 years old and has been selected to his first All-Star team because he is hitting .292 with 13 homers and 47 RBI.

Sanchez could be available because his stock is so high and the Marlins are known for trading everyone good they get. He would have immediate impact on the Cubs and solidify 1st base for many years to come. I look at Sanchez as a younger Derek Lee or a right handed hitting Sean Casey from 1999 to 2004. He would allow the Cubs to spend millions of dollar elsewhere which is also a huge benefit. Again the Marlins would want a huge return for Sanchez.

The Cubs and Marlins just don’t match up good trade wise so I don’t see this taking place but crazier things have happened.

Twins-

Danny Valencia-3rd Base- Twins

Valencia is the Twins 3rd baseman of the future and he is showing why. Valencia is will amaze you with his raw power and glove but might struggle to hit for average at the ML level. He is currently hitting .237 with 10 homers in 82 games at the age of 26. It is rare you can find power and defense as good as Valencia has at the hot corner.

Danny would be an immediate replacement for Aramis Ramirez after he leaves and would have immediate impact on the Cubs. By trading for Danny you could shift Vitters to 1st base or trade him for other needs. The Twins were in more of a position to trade Valencia for guys like Carlos Pena or Aramis Ramirez a week ago but have fallen 7 games out of first so they may just hold onto Valencia.

A week ago I would put a potential trade at around 30% especially with the talk about the Twins wanting to add more power at the corners but now I see them selling off their older more expensive players thus putting a deal near 10% for me.

Francisco Liriano-SP- Twins

Rumors have been running wild for Liriano who could be a free agent after the 2013 season depending on service time. The Cubs have been linked to Liriano in the past and should still show interest at he deadline giving their lack of a dominate lefty in the rotation. Two years ago Liriano would command 4 top prospects now the Twins might be looking to save face and trade Liriano even though his stock has not been lower. Francisco is 5-7 with a 4.76 ERA this season and has been pitching more to contract than years past.

If the Cubs traded for Liriano then he would immediately make the rotation better and the Cubs will at least have him for 2 years. The transfer from AL to NL should benefit him about the same as it did for Lilly when he came to Chicago. With the Twins shopping Liriano for young players and the Cubs looking to strengthen the rotation I see this being a match for both teams. I can see the Twins looking at guys like Tyler Colvin, Josh Vitters, and of course young pitching.

A week ago I put this trade at around 15% chance of happening but since they are falling out of the playoff race I see an increase in a deal happening. I put the percentage around 25% because they Twins will look to rebuild their farm and don’t see Liriano as a building piece for the future.

That concludes this installment “28 players under 28 years old” look for the Royals and Red Sox next!

Talking RUMORS!

2011-06-30T15:01:00.001-05:00

Jim Hendry addressed the media yesterday on the state of the team. So with that along with that come more Cubs rumors and news-

- Buster Onley said the Cubs are open for business and reports Jeff Baker and Kerry Wood are the most coveted players in the trade market since they are cheap and very useful for contending teams.

- Buster also said there is mixed results about Carlos Pena since he is a streaky power hitter. Pena has recently been linked to the Angels and Dbacks.

- The Pirates have contacted the Cubs about a familiar face, Aramis Ramirez.

- Kerry Wood is near the top of the Dbacks targets.

- Hendry said there will not be a fire sale because they will not trade away their young core which includes Carlos Marmol, Darwin Barney, and Starlin Castro.

- The Tigers are looking for starting pitching and could be contacting the Cubs about Zambrano, Dempster, or even Randy Wells.

- The Cubs released Doug Davis.

- The Cubs have kicked the tires on Scott Kazmir and are considering inking him to a minor league deal.

- Jim indicated he does not like the terms buyers and sellers because he considers his team to be both. He will sell off players that don’t fit into the future but may acquire impact players for next season.

- Levine adds more to the Ramirez trade rumors saying that Aram could change his tune considering his wife and child go back to the Dominican by early August for fall classes. Ramirez main concern about a trade is uprooting his family so he may accept a trade now compared to when he was originally asked.

- Levine also says teams like Detroit, San Francisco, and Cleveland could have interest in Aram. He said the Giants could move Sandoval to 1st to accommodate Aram. While the Indians and Tigers are getting little production at 3rd so they seen like a match. The Indians have a couple of players that really interest me; Carlos Santana, Lonnie Chisenhall, and Grady Sizemore. I think the Cubs could lump in Pena and Soto along with Ramirez and get Chisenhall and Santana in a deal. Now that would be building for the future!

- Kerry Wood will be activated off the DL on Friday.

- According to Sahadev Sharma of ESPN Chicago says players like Sean Marshall, Matt Garza, and Geovany Soto are not available because they are under team control and can still produce at a high level. He also states the Cubs will be looking to unload Zambrano and Soriano while getting value for Pena, Fukudome, and Aram.

- Cashner could start rehabbing this weekend and Hendry hopes to have him back sometime this year but it will likely be in a reliever role.

- The Cubs planning on keep Dempster for the rest of the season instead of trading him unless they are blown away by an offer and Dempster approves the trade.

- If the Cubs do trade Soriano and/or Zambrano then they will be even bigger players in the free agent market next season.

- Sources say the Cubs free agent target list is very short and could change depending on who they receive in trades. But right now 3 names top the list C.J. Wilson, Prince Fielder, and Yadier Molina.

- There is a lot of talk that Jim Hendry could make his last moves as Cubs GM at the trade deadline. Ricketts indicated that the Cubs management, the coaching staff, and players will be evaluated at the end of the season. Such speculation sparked the rumors of other GMs being interested in the Cubs GM job. Here is the list we have heard at HSC- Josh Byrnes, Billy Beane, Andrew Friedman, Ned Colletti, Greg Maddux, Rick Hahn, Pat Gillick, Allard Baird, and Ben Cherington. Out of those Rick Hahn, Billy Beane, Pat Gillick, and Andrew Friedman look the best. I view Maddux as a good option for President.

- Is Mike Quade’s job in jeopardy? Well considering he will be re-evaluated at the end of the season I would say it is not safe. It also depends if Hendry is retained or not. If Hendry and President Kenney are replaced, the guy coming in may decide to replace Q with “their guy.” Rumors have been circling that if the Cubs do make a change Ricketts would have more of an influence this go around on the manager. If you recall the rumors last season that Ricketts wanted Sandberg and Hendry wanted Quade. So one can assume if one goes the other one does as well. It also might be time for the owner of the Cubs to flex his muscles and give the fans what they want, Ryne Sandberg as manager!

- Little FYI on how Ryno is doing in the Phillies system. He has the Lehigh Valley IronPigs in first place with a 46-33 record. Before Ryno arrived the IronPigs in the past 3 season did not spend a single day above .500. Ryno is now 330-310 overall as a minor league manager. Ricketts needs to bring in his guy! Ryne Sandberg!

Until Next Time…

28 Players Under 28 Years Old: Yankees and Mets

2011-06-29T21:00:00.004-05:00

Earlier this week I discussed a new series of posts called “28 players under 28 years old” and here is out first entry as we look at the Yankees and Mets.

Yankees-

Gary Sanchez-Catcher-Yankees

Gary Sanchez is rated the 30th best prospect in baseball according to Baseball America and is 4th best prospect in the Yankees farm system. Sanchez has declined some this year posting a 250 average with 6 homers and 27 RBI in 49 games. He is only 18 years old though and does have some attitude problems but it is likely he will mature out of that. Scouts say Sanchez is better defensively than Yankees top prospect Montero and even drawing comparisons to Yadier Molina and a young Ivan Rodriguez.

Sanchez could be available because the Yankees have Montero and Romine in their top 10 prospects. The Yankees do not need to 3 catching prospects so one could be expendable. The Cubs could use Sanchez for when Soto is traded or elects free agency. With Sanchez only being 18 he still needs time in the minors for seasoning. It is also not likely he would contribute right away but his acquisition could make Soto available. The Yankees have already stated they are not looking at Z or Dempster but that could be posturing, Grabow could interest the Yankees but the only way you get Sanchez is if you send a package to NY with Grabow included.

This is a long shot for the Cubs because the Yankees and Cubs do not match up well for a trade. Not to mention the way the Yankees value Sanchez but anything is possible.

Austin Romine-Catcher-Yankees

Another good overall catcher in the Yankees system and ranked 98th best prospect in baseball according to MLB.com. He is doing well for the Yankees AA squad hitting .291 with a .353 OBO and 4 homers in 48 games. Romine is only 22 but is closer to being ready for the Big Show than Sanchez. His throwing out rate has been above 20% in the minors which is good not great but combined that with his offensive numbers then he has the potential of being an everyday catcher.

The reasons why he is available, what the Yankees want, etc… is comparable to what I said about Sanchez above. The only difference is Romine is a LOT more available than the other two.

Mets-

Josh Thole-Catcher-Mets

This guy is not going to WOW anyone with his offensive numbers. His career in the minor leagues has him hitting .289 with a .376 OBP and 16 homes in 450 career games. His ML career stats are slightly lower hitting .273 with a .350 OBP and 4 homers in 149 games. But he is another player that could be available because he is young, a left-handed bat but a righty behind the plate, and he is under team control. One thing I give Thole credit on is CS percentage in the majors. In 2009 he had a 33% rating, in 2010 he had a 44% rating, and in 2011 it did drop to 20%. But it should be noted most of those SB against him this year came against a slow pitcher on the mound like RA Dickey.

Thole is available especially if the Mets stay in the WC chase and the Cubs could target him as their long-term catcher and ideal #2 hitter in the lineup. The Mets could target a variety of players on the Cubs like Carlos Pena because Ike Davis looks like he is lost for the season. The Mets could also look at pitching and outfield as well, especially if they deal Beltran who did say he would waive his NTC.

I see the Cubs targeting Thole because he provides so many things Geovany Soto does not. Plus he is a lot more affordable considering Soto has the chance to make a lot more money via arbitration. I put the chances of them acquiring Thole at 25% because they had interest in him last season as well.

David Wright-3b-Mets

David Wright is a guy that is going to create a ton of interest for many teams in baseball. Rarely a superstar 3rd baseman is rumored to be on the block let alone traded (unless you are Arod) but that is not the case for David Wright. A couple of things make Wright a double edged sword 1) he is not back from his fracture in his back and could still be a huge injury risk 2) if traded he will become a free agent after the 2012 season and 3) he may not be ready to go before the trade deadline. These things give most teams worries so the Mets might hold onto him until next offseason. Either way the Cubs will be in on David Wright.

Wright could be dealt because of finances, to stock the farm system, and/or they are looking for money to give to potential free agent Jose Reyes. The Cubs would target him because he is a superstar 3rd baseman and the Cubs long-term players for 3rd (Vitters and Aram) are either not ready or going to be let go because of money. Wright would make an immediate impact on the Cubs and if acquired I believe the Cubs would not hesitate to sign him to an extension. Once again the Mets could look at Pena, Aramis, and pitching for the Cubs but they also could value prospects Flaherty, Vitters, and McNutt to build up their farm system.

The percentage I put on this happening is below 10% at the deadline but near 20% if both teams wait until next offseason to discuss Wright.

That concludes our first installment of “28 players under 28 years old” look for the next four by next week. We will be addressing players from the Marlin and Twins.

Until Next Time…

Going East, Going Home, and Having 2nd Thoughts???

2011-06-28T20:49:00.000-05:00

Rumors and news are ramping up so let’s get to them-

- Bobby Scales left the Cubs to play in Japan.

- Marlon Byrd in his first live game action got plunked in the left shoulder. He is fine and said it was good for him to have it happen so soon.

- Barney also got hit yesterday and he is OK. He is expected to be back with the Cubs on Weds.

- Cubbies Crib says Hendry will be revaluated at the end of the season which leads to their speculation that he will be fired. It should be noted CC cited a source that is very reliable.

- Ricketts is willing to eat some money on Fukudome and Soriano both to get them traded according to sources.

- A friend of Aramis Ramirez says he maybe more willing to waive his no-trade clause if it is “to the right team and the right situation.” Speculation says he would be willing to go to contending teams like the Angels, Tigers, Phillies, Giants, and Braves. The friend also said Aram would expect his 2012 option to be exercised before any trade is completed.

- The Angels have interest and have been scouting 3 Cubs players recently; Geovany Soto, Carlos Pena, and Aramis Ramirez. No discussions have taken place between the teams as of yet but expect trade talk to gain steam right after the All-Star break.

- Just throwing this out there about sending Soto, Pena, and Ramirez to the Angels for Mark Trumbo, Hank Conger, and Mike Trout?

- Here is a three way trade that got into my inbox, probably sparked by the rumor yesterday that the Rangers are interested in Beltran and K-Rod. Mets get Chris Davis, Mel Olt, Chris Carpenter, Jay Jackson, and Jurickson Profar, Cubs get David Wright, and Rangers get Beltran and K-Rod. Pretty interesting trade for everyone involved but the Mets get a slew of good young prospects in this deal.

Until Next Time….

28 players under 28 years old

2011-06-27T21:20:00.001-05:00

With the news that Jim Hendry, scouts, and other team officials are meeting today and Tuesday to discuss possible trades and targets for the Cubs I bring you “28 players under 28 years old.” In this post I will give you 28 players from contending and non-contending teams that could interest the Cubs. I will also label Cub players that other teams (mainly contending) have interest in which could make a potential trading match. These are also players that will make an impact next season or in the near future. Here are the 28 players in no particular order-

Billy Butler - Royals
Chris Davis - Rangers
Mark Trumbo - Angels
Alex Gordon - Royals
Lars Anderson – Red Sox
Kila Ka'aihue - Royals
James Loney - Dodgers
Justin Smoak - Mariners
Christian Yelich – Marlins
Gaby Sanchez –Marlins
Josh Bell – Orioles
David Wright – Mets
Danny Valencia – Twins
Josh Thole- Mets
Francisco Liriano – Twins
Hank Conger – Angels
Carlos Santana – Indians
Brandon Belt – Giants
Martin Perez- Rangers
Travis E. d'Arnaud - Jays
J.P. Arencibia – Jays
Derek Norris- Nationals
Gary Sanchez – Yankees
Austin Romine- Yankees
Chris Carter- A’s
Dayan Viciedo – White Sox
Matt Rizzotti- Phillies
Bobby Borchering- Dbacks

These are the 28 players under the age of 28 that could help build the Cubs for next season and/or the future. Many of these players are available for one reason or another. In the d”Arnaud and Arencibia case both are up and coming catchers in the Jays system so they could make one available via trade to address other needs which is why I put both on my list. Another example is block prospects like Lars Anderson who has been blocked by Adrian Gonzales at 1st. Players like David Wright might be dealt for financial reasons and players like Gaby Sanchez could have a young prospect like Christian Yelich knocking at his door (both on my list). The most unusual I added to the list is Brandon Belt who could be dangled to get more offensive help or catching help for a playoff run, the same could be said for Smoak, Davis, and Liriano. Even a team like the Indians and White Sox could dangle some young prized stars to get more impactful young players from the Cubs. One thing I did not include is the teams in the NL Central, I don’t believe the Cubs will deal for any young talent within their own division mainly because it is tough to do.

So over the next weeks I will be breaking down this list into 7 groups of 4. In each group I will discuss these questions-

Why is the player available?

Why would the Cubs want him?

What impact will he make on the Cubs?

What the other team could value from the Cubs?

What are the chances this could happen?

Look for my first “28 players under 28 years old” post sometime this week as we discuss the players from the Yankees and Mets.

Until Next Time..

Cubs Set Dates For Action....

2011-06-21T15:25:00.001-05:00

- Even with a sweep of the White Sox the Cubs will have to do a lot over the next 4 weeks to make them buyers. Rumor has it Ricketts and Hendry have set two evaluation dates for the Cubs, July 10th after the Pirates game and July 25th an off day for the Cubs. I am hearing the factors being taken in will be the Cubs record, how far they are out of the wild card and division lead, injuries, and how the Cubs are currently playing. Basically I see if the Cubs are 10 games out on July 10th they will begin to sell of parts of this team.

- That brings me to my next thing. The term fire sale has been spoken in the front office team sources have said. We have seen the Marlins go through a fire sale to bring in youth and reduce payroll and I think that is exactly what the Cubs need. Except one difference, I expect the Cubs to be huge factors in free agency next season.

- Ricketts said the Cubs WILL HAVE money to spend this coming offseason on big ticket free agents if they choose to go that route. The Cubs have been linked to Fielder, Pujols, Sabathia, Wilson, and Yadier Molina.

- The Cubs are expected to make all their veteran players available via trade. Here is a list of players I have compiled via email and other websites of players that will be made available

Doug Davis
Ryan Dempster
John Grabow
Rodrigo Lopez
Jeff Samardzija
Randy Wells
Carlos Zambrano
Koyie Hill
Geovany Soto
Kerry Wood- Only if he approves the trade since he took a discount to stay here, very unlikely he is traded.
Aramis Ramirez- Says he will not waive it but will change his tone as the deadline approaches.
Jeff Baker
Blake DeWitt
Carlos Pena
Marlon Byrd
Tyler Colvin
Kosuke Fukudome
Reed Johnson
Lou Montanez
Alfonso Soriano

- Marlon Byrd is expected to make his rehab start with Iowa next week. It will be good for the Cubs and their fans to see Byrd back in action.

- The Cubs have been scouting all levels of the KC Royals, San Francisco Giants, and the Texas Rangers recently. The Giants have been scouting Geovany Soto so the Cubs could pull off a deal with them. A couple of players that could interest the Cubs on the Giants side are Brandon Belt or one of the many young arms they have in their system. The Cubs have also been scouting the Royals because of their youth and depth at positions the Cubs need upgrading for next season. The Royals have prospects Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas filling the corners for years to come. They have recently signed Billy Butler to an extension but he has been pushed to full time DH will the emergence of Hosmer. It is also rumored they would consider trading Butler for young pitching or a solid young inexpensive catcher. Since the Cubs main areas of upgrading for next season is likely 1st and 3rd base players like Alex Gordon, Billy Butler, and Kila Ka’aihue could be targets for Cubs scouts. Adding Gordon or Butler would be a nice addition for the Cubs going into 2012. In Texas the Cubs have been exclusively been targeting Chris Davis who is hitting .364 with 14 homers in 25 games at the age of 25. He can also play 1st or 3rd! But I have been told they are also keeping an eye on Micheal Olt but he is not ready for the show and is currently on the DL. He is in high A ball hitting .286 with 10 homeruns and a .395 OBP in 54 games. To me I can see the Cubs exploring the young and inexpensive route before eventually spending big bucks on Fielder or Pujols. If the Cubs can land Fielder I would love if they could trade for a Chris Davis or Alex Gordon to play 3rd base for them next season.

Until Next Time..

Making the Pitch...

2011-06-17T19:20:00.000-05:00

With the Yankees in town trade speculation picks up. So let’s get to it.

- Top advisors to Brian Cashman were scouting Carlos Zambrano the last road trip. Of course Z has gone back and forth on whether he would waive his no-trade but one of his friends has said he would waive his no-trade to go to a contending tem, introducing the Yankees.

- According to Bruce Levine the Yankees might actually be more interested in Ryan Dempster than Big Z. Dempster has been a better pitcher, teammate, and less erratic than Zambrano in the past few years. But like Z, Dempster has a no-trade clause and has a great relationship with Chicago.

- Even though the Cubs won 3 of 4 against the division leading Brewers I still expect them to become sellers at the deadline because the hill they have to climb is really steep.

- Soriano had a good take on being traded’ “"This is my fifth year, but if they say they want to trade me, then why wouldn't I want to go somewhere else. I wouldn't stay here." Soriano wants to stay in Chicago and does have a no-trade clause but said if he is asked to waive it he would not get in the way.

- Ricketts gave this team, Mike Quade, and Jim Hendry a vote of confidence but for Hendry it sounded more run down than Q. Saying you have confidence in Hendry to get the season back on track. Therefore if Hendry does not do that it decreases the confidence he has in Hendry causing his job to become in jeopardy. I was also informed that regardless Hendry will be will the team the rest of the season and a President and GM change would not take place until after the World Series. I guess we shall see.

- Would you trade Soriano and his 4 year roughly 61 million for Adam Dunn and his 4 years roughly 50 million on his contract? Is that even a fair trade? Honestly if I was GM I would make that happen even I have to pick up some the difference in cash. Adam Dunn is only 32 while Soriano is 35 and in baseball years that is a huge difference. Both are defensive liabilities but with Dunn you can play him at 1st or LF. Dunn also provides you with more power and a back-up for 1st if you don’t land a guy like Fielder or Pujols this coming offseason. The only downfall to this trade is Soriano’s numbers this season are actually better than Dunn’s. Other than that I do not see a downfall to having another big power left-handed bat in the lineup. What is your take?

- If the Yankees are serious about adding Dempster or Zambrano to their staff I think the Cubs should insist on one of these prospects being in any deal for either pitcher-

Austin Romine- The Yankees have 3 of the best catching prospects in baseball. He is the 5th best catching prospect in baseball and the Yankees 5th best prospect in their system with good defensive and offensive skills. At only 22 years old he is playing AA ball hitting .298 with 4 homers and a .362 OBP.

Dellin Betances- This RHP cracks MLBs top 50 prospects at #45 and you can see why by his stats in AA. He is only 23 years old and in 8 games started he is 3-1 with a 1.82 ERA.

Manny Banuelos- This LHP is the 28th best prospect in baseball at the ripe age of 20. In AA he has started 10 games and sports a 2.12 ERA.

Gary Sanchez- The 25th best prospect in baseball and ranks 2nd in best catching prospect. His offensive numbers have yet to translate to his potential but the upside is definitely there.

Jesus Montero- The Yankees top gem! Their number 1 prospect and the 7th best prospect in baseball. He is close to ML ready and it shows with his numbers in AAA. He is hitting .303 with .343 OBP, and 4 homers.

I think the Cubs should demand at least one of these prospects as a park of a package for either Dempster or Z. I also would entertain trading Z or Dempster along with Geovany Soto to the Yankees for Jesus Montero, Manny Banuelos, and another mid-level prospect. I think that would entice both the Yankees and Cubs.

What is your take?

Until Next Time…

Addition by Subtraction

2011-06-14T14:56:00.002-05:00

Buster Olney has stirred up the baseball world the past couple days by breaking the rumor of division realignment, execution of divisions, year around interleague play, and the additional two teams added to the playoff format. Today I will do my best to talk through the points laid out by Buster Olney along with adding things I have heard from my sources on this.

Transferring from NL to AL

According to this format one NL team would have to transfer to the AL to make both divisions at 15 teams. According to several sources if the new CBA says the divisions will remain in tact then there are only 3 viable teams to move from NL to AL. The Astros, Diamondbacks, and Rockies all could move to the AL West. It would be easiest for the Astros because they could just move from the NL Central to the AL West but the only thing holding them back is start times; in the Houston area for games in Seattle and Anaheim maybe too late effecting the TV market greatly. The other two options still affect the Astros because in both scenarios Houston would be sent to the NL West while either the Diamondbacks or Rockies would be sent to the AL West. Rockies make more sense here because it would not affect the TV market as bad making the transfer but still having Houston move to the NL West would cause TV issues in Texas. Of course all of this would be a mute point if they go to a “non-divisional AL/NL league.

If MLB decides to go to the non-divisional leagues for the NL and AL then pretty much any team from the NL could transfer to the AL. According to my sources MLB wants to go to this format and has a short list of teams they would consider to transfer to the AL which include the Pirates, Astros, Diamondbacks, Rockies, Marlins, Nationals, and yes… the Cubs. In fact most of the teams I listed may have their fans, GM’s, Presidents, and Owners asking to transfer leagues for many reasons, but number one being revenue. AL teams historically make more money on TV and in ticket sales than NL teams, not to mention the buzz around the transferring team going to the AL. If you are the Cubs and you transfer to the AL you will see teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Rangers, Angels, etc… teams your fan base usually do not have access to which in turn will generate more ticket sales in your home ball park and also in other ball parks where Cubs fans are present.

Having said all that the Astros to the AL makes the most sense and what they will eventually do.

Death to Divisions

If the transition does take place I think having two 15 team leagues is the only way to go. Yes the excitement for the race for first place and the wild card in the present divisional alignment is great but not fair. How is it fair that a team with an 86-76 record wins a division but a 90+ win not make the playoffs because they don’t win their division or the WC. Removing the divisions eliminates this because the 5 playoff spots in each league will be the 5 best teams in each league. Another thing that would benefit is the trade deadline, with only 5 spot and 15 teams in each league by the deadline it would be easier to determine if you are a buyer or seller. Two leagues with no divisions sound like a win-win to me!

More Playoff Teams Please!

Along with all the talk about the possible changes in the new CBA one thing everyone is over looking is each league will gain one playoff team. I am in the minority in thinking the addition of another playoff team does not water down the field but increases attention paid to MLB and attendance around baseball. Not to mention if this does go to non-divisional leagues then the top team in each league would get a first-round bye causing more teams to play their everyday players down the stretch which would also increase competiveness in the later parts of the season. Just adding more teams to playoffs make sense baseball wise and financially.

More Interleague Play???

By baseball making both leagues even they are actually making each one odd. Having 15 teams in each league mean one team from each league would have to play each other because you cannot go everyday with two teams sitting out. Even if you rotated the days so you play 14 games then got the 15th game off it still would not work because of travel, scheduling, etc… So the only option is making interleague play year around which again I think increases TV viewing and tickets prices in a good way. I am all for interleague play!

What about DH?

Since I established that we will have a two 15 team leagues with year around Interleague play that brings up one of the most touchy things in baseball circles; the DH. Now logically you say you just leave it how it is and when you play in an AL park you use the DH and in the NL you let the pitcher hit. Honestly I think all of baseball should go to where the pitcher hits but that causes another big problem. You would have 15 DH players being paid a large amount of cash to basically be a part-time player or they could force another everyday player to rid the bench more. So if they did implement that then you would have a shift players and positions which would just cause a headache in baseball. You could go to the DH only in baseball but trying to get the owners and fans in the NL to approve that would be too difficult so keeping it the way it is just makes sense.

A Case for the Cubs in the AL

Now I know I rocked some boats by saying the Cubs are on the short list of teams that could be moved to the AL. Don’t kill the messenger, I am just reporting what I am hearing and I don’t like the idea either. But for journalism sake I am going to play the devils advocate and look at the pros of transferring leagues-

1. More excitement initially around the Cubs.
2. More revenue generated from the move to the AL. Renewed interest in the team.
3. Chance to play against teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Orioles, Rangers, etc…
4. The chance to actually use the DH on an everyday basis.
5. The DH can solve your “Soriano in LF” problem. You place him at DH and you don’t have to worry about him getting hurt or hurting the team in the field.
6. Allows the Cubs to build their team differently.
7. Easier to lure big bats and non-hitting pitchers to the AL than the NL.
8. Increases the rivalry between the White Sox and Cubs while creating new rivalries with teams like the Twins, Tigers, Royals, Indians, etc…
9. Creates a new excitement around Chicago Cubs baseball and would be a marketing coordinators dream.
10. No matter what they will still be the Chicago Cubs.

Again having the Cubs in the AL would hurt me and I think hurt baseball because the Cubs are National League baseball. To think the Cubs winning the World Series but hoisting it up as the winner in the AL does not feel right to me. I will say out of the “short list” of teams I think the Cubs are the less likely to make the move to the AL which is fine by me.

So what is your take on the possibility of Divisional Realignment and everything it entails?

Leave a comment! Discuss!

Until Next Time….

Quick HIts...

2011-06-12T09:02:00.002-05:00

- Baker could be activated on Monday or Tuesday.
- Reed Johnson was taken to a Des Moines hospital after being hit in the head with the ball. He received stitches and it is unknown when his return date may be.
- Soriano may return Tuesday or Weds.
- Aramis Ramirez made statements he would not accept a trade out of Chicago. Aramis will have 10/5 rights this season and has to approve any trade. Sources have said that Aramis maybe just doing the "grown up thing" by saying that so he does not hurt his trade value.
- Brad Snyder was DFA to make room for Casey Colemen in the pen.
- Angel Guzman looked great in his rehab relief appearance in A ball. He threw 21 pitches and struck out two pitchers. Guzman could be activated as early has the end of June.

Until Next Time..

Hendry and Kenney Packing????

2011-06-09T17:11:00.001-05:00

So I learned mobile uploads are only so many characters long. Bummer! Anyways here you go!

According to Phil Rogers, Jim Hendry and Crane Kenney could be on there way out the door. Phil says the Ricketts family may fire both before the end of the season thus putting the blame on both for the past two awful seasons. Rumor has it that guys like Pat Gilick, Andrew Friedman, Allard Baird, Ben Cherington, or Ned Colletti could be replacements. i would also add Steve Stone and Greg Maddux to the short list. Tim Wilken would be less likely to leave if they hired Gillick because he worked with him in the past which is a huge selling point!

Improvements and Changes...

2011-06-08T20:55:00.002-05:00

I am proud to present some much needed changes and improvements to Hot Stove Cubbies.

First off I am now going to be doing rumor and news updates via twitter as well as on here on HSC. Please feel free to follow me to get the latest news and rumors regarding your Cubs. Follow me @HotStoveCubbies by clicking on the follow me link located in the top right column of the page.

Another improvement that is beneficial for everyone is I am now able to do mobile updates via text message and it sends directly to the blog. One unfortunate thing that blogger does not address is the posting option on the mobile device. You will not be able to post comments to mobile updates from me on the blog until I am able to enable them by accessing the website which I will do. This will allow me to spend more time away from the computer screen and with my family but still not neglecting my devoted readers and posters. Not to mention this should make posting easier and more frequent so everyone wins!

Let me know how everything is working and if you are enjoying the changes by posting here or talking to me via twitter.

Thank you and Go Cubs!!!!!!!!!!!

Here Is Your 2012 Chicago Cubs!!!!!!!

2011-06-07T15:29:00.003-05:00

While I honestly do not believe the Cubs season is over (as hard as that is to believe), they do only have a .5% chance of making the playoffs according to baseball prospectus which leads me to my next posting for the future. I am going to attempt to walk through what I believe the Cubs goal will be going into the 2012 season. While the free agent signings and trades are purely speculative it is what I think the Cubs need to do to be successful. The Chicago Cubs will have anywhere between 70-90 million to spend next season alone on free agents and contract extensions depending on what Ricketts decides to give the Cubs to make them successful. The number I will be working with is 80 million because it is right in between both. So here is what I see-

Players to let go because their contracts expire after the season (should be noted that these players could be traded at the deadline as well)

Dempster- Encourage him to decline his player option and find more money elsewhere.
Ramirez- Do not exercises his option and I will tell you why later.
Pena- He was just looking for a one-year deal and the Cubs have their eyes set on a bigger bat for 1st.
Grabow- A lefty specialist being paid like a set-up closer will likely go at the deadline.
Johnson- Will leave at the deadline, not likely to be back with the Cubs next year because of the depth in the outfield.
Fukudome- Has been productive for the Cubs but not what they paid for. It will be his last year for the same reason Johnson will depart.
Smardzija- Not as effective if he decides to approve a trade he is gone otherwise the Cubs will just let him walk after the season.
Doug Davis- Enough said.
Rodrigo Lopez- Same
Koyie Hill- His time has come to an end

Players that you would want to trade but it won’t happen

Carlos Zambrano- Unless it is to the White Sox (or Yankees) I do not see him approving a trade but Z has proven to change his mind as much as he changes his underwear. Trading him would provide the Cubs with more money to spend on potential free agents but because of the money and declining K rate he will remain a Cub until the end of his contract.
Alfonso Soriano- Hitting is declining, power declining, health declining, bad fielder, aging, and owed 54 million over the next 3 season with a no-trade clause. He could still be dealt because we did see Vernon Wells and Alex Rios both traded and both were deemed unmovable.

Players that could be traded either at the deadline of before the 2012 season

Marlon Byrd- With the play of players like Campana and expected call up of Brett Jackson, Byrd could be on the move. Depending on how he does the rest of the season of course and how he bounces back from injury as well.
Blake DeWitt- The Cubs are already showcasing him and have several younger players chomping at the bit to get to Chicago so he is expendable. The Cubs will likely hold onto him unless someone overpays in prospects for him.
Jeff Baker- He can smash lefties and can play various positions, this is one guy that is either going to be traded at the deadline or play next season with the Cubs because of his current trade value. I really hope if the Cubs do move Baker it is for a similar bounty that they received for DeRosa.
Randy Wells- A strong second half could prove a valuable trading chip for the Cubs either at the deadline or during the offseason.
Geovany Soto- The Cubs will use him to acquire an impact bat on the team plus I think the Cubs will focus more on defense than offense behind the plate.

Player to resign for next season

Kerry Wood- Sign him to a larger deal this year because you have the money to do so. I see the Cubs signing him to a 2 year 12 million dollar deal then likely to retire after that and stay with the team in some capacity.

Player they will add via trade

David Wright- He is rumored to be shopped and more likely this offseason rather than before the deadline unless he heals quickly. While Wright is owed a good amount of money it is not bad for superstar potential. Wright is owed 15 million in 2012 and has a 16 million dollar club option for 2013 that includes a million dollar buyout but that is only pertained to the Mets. The Cubs would basically be using the money they would have used to retain Aram on Wright. The Cubs will also be trading for Wright at a perfect time. Coming off a down year and an injury they are not likely to overpay in prospects. I think if the Cubs sent Geovany Soto, Tyler Colvin, Randy Wells and maybe a prospect like Ryan Flaherty or Josh Vitters to the Mets they would send David Wright to the Cubs and maybe even along catching prospect Josh Thole. Either way if the Cubs replace an aging, injury prone, power outage third baseman like Aramis with a 28 year old defensive minded third baseman that can hit 20 homers and steal 20 bases I think they should. Not to mention having the option to lock him up long term as well.

Free agents they should sign

Prince Fielder- I know I am going to get ripped by the “Albert Pujols to Cubs” group but as I continue I may sway some of you. Prince Fielder is report looking for “Teixeira” money and teams are likely to offer more along the lines of “Ryan Howard” money. So I have the Cubs signing Fielder to a 6 year deal worth 165 million with mutual option for the 7th year. Now the important thing to know is Hendry liking to backload contracts which will help the 28 year old Fielder because it will allow the Cubs to spend less in 2012 so they can afford other impact free agents. Another thing that benefits from this potential 7 year deal is he will be 35 at the end of the deal which is starting the decline of baseball players unless you are Barry Bonds. I fully expect the Cubs to sign Fielder to a large contract but will only make 19 million in 2012.

CC Sabathia- The Yankees and all of baseball look for him to opt out of the 4 year 92 million left on his contract to get a nice payday. Much like the Cubs do with Fielder they will backload the contract and give him close to the money and years he is looking for. 5 year 135 million with a player option for the 6th year. The Cubs will entice Sabathia with the Wright trade, Fielder signing, the benefit of being back in the NL where he dominated, and the prospect of bring the first World Series to the Cubs in over 100 years. The Cubs will also backload Sabathia’s contract and he will start off the 2012 season making 24 million and increase each year.

CJ Wilson- CJ Wilson will be the best deal in baseball. He is only making 7 million this season and is likely to see more than double that. The Cubs would be more likely to target Wilson over Sabathia because of the price but if Ricketts follows my plan he can make a big splash and get more bang for his buck. Again the Cubs are likely to backload his contract and sway Wilson to the north-side very similar to what they did for Sabathia. I fully expect the Wilson to get money in between Ryan Dempster (4 year 52million) and John Lackey (5 year 82million). I expect him to sign with the Cubs for 5 years 80 million. He will make 15 million in 2012.

Yadier Molina- I was shocked to have learned that the Cardinals will likely decline Molina’s 7 million dollar club option and pay 750K for him to go elsewhere. The talk is that the Cardinals will not have enough money to exercise Carpenter, Wainwright, and Molina along with trying to re-sign Pujols and Berkman who they would like to sign to an extension before the season ends. Not to mention unique arbitration cases with Rasmus and Garcia which factor in the 18 million in arbitration they have to shell out to retain all their young players (figure from MLBTR). Of course being a business Yadier should understand why he let go while the Cubs will be there for him much like they were there for Edmonds. Just like a business I can see Molina going to a place where he can win and offer the most money which the Cubs will do. I can see Molina looking at the potential pitching staff of Sabathia, Garza, Wilson, Zambarano, and a starter to be named later and start drooling. I expect Molina to sign with the Cubs for 4 years 27 million with the first year being paid around 6 million.

Dealing the cash out

With the 4 new free agent signings and the re-signing of Kerry Wood the Cubs will have 70 million to contribute to free agents, the Cubs will also add 15 million to that by trading for David Wright, but they subtract about 6 million trading away Wells, Soto, Colvin, and Vitters/Flaherty. So in total the Cubs would have spent 79 million dollars alone in 2012 which is about on target amount to spend in 2012. With this plan the Cubs can add high profiled free-agents along with incorporating their youth something most successful team do. Is it not impressive how much 79 million can go?

25 man roster

Lineup

Brett Jackson RF
Darwin Barney 2b
David Wright 3rd
Prince Fielder 1st
Starlin Castro SS
Marlon Byrd CF
Alfonso Soriano LF
Yadier Molina C

Rotation

CC Sabathia
Matt Garza
CJ Wilson
Carlos Zambrano
Trey McNutt

Bench

Blake DeWitt IF/OF
Josh Thole or Wellington Castillo C
Tony Campana OF
Jeff Baker IF/OF
Bobby Scales IF/OF

Bullpen

Carlos Marmol Closer
Kerry Wood
Sean Marshall
Angel Guzman
James Russell
John Maine
Andrew Cashner

Other Notes

There are two areas the Cubs will likely fill internally and that is pen and bench. Although I could see players like Felipe Lopez, Wilson Betemit, or Omar Vizquel getting a small major league deal or minor league deal with an invitation to ST. I think another big hole is the Cubs are without a switch hitter that can play multiple positions which is why I have Bobby Scales making the team.
As you see I also have Thole competing with Castillo for the backup catcher position. Thole presents the Cubs with a better option offensively and batting left handed which also really helps balance out the bench. Although Castillo I think is better behind the plate than Thole; if I were the GM I give Thole the nod as backup catcher.

I also round out my bench by adding speed, versatility, and balance. I think the Cubs will end up not trading the affordable Blake DeWitt and Jeff Baker because they provide the Cubs with two things I mentioned versatility and balance while Campana and Scales provide some good speed off the bench.

As far as the bullpen it looks a lot similar to this year. The Cubs keep the backend much like this year but add a good arm off the DL in Guzman. The Cubs will continue to carry three lefties but put Cashner in the pen after he comes back off the DL.

The other thing in the rotation that I did not address above the Cubs will likely go with top prospect Trey McNutt as their 5th starter. Trey has been on a roll this season but is currently on the 7 day DL. With the top 4 spots in the rotation filled by #1 and #2 starters you can take a chance on the 5th spot in the rotation.

The Cubs lineup looks like a nice balance of speed and power; by adding Brett Jackson at the top of the lineup they now have an actual base stealing top of the lineup guy. They finally get there left-handed power threat in Prince Fielder and one of the best 3rd baseman in the league to hit in from of him in David Wright. The Cubs will still have Soriano starting in LF but I think as the years go by he will play less and less with guys like Campana seeing more playing time.

My dark horse candidate on making the team next season is Matt Szczur, especially if they can find Soriano a new home during the trade deadline.

Looking Ahead

Some things I know I will hear is by back loading the contracts of these new guys you are causing a dramatic increase in payroll and jeopardizing the future. If you think that you could not be more wrong. After the 2012 season you drop off Marlon Byrd and the 6.5 million he was owed in 2012 and maybe even Zambrano, after the 2013 season you are definitely rid of Zambrano and the 19 million he made in 2013, at the end of the 2014 campaign you can finally say that Soriano is not a Cubs and you drop his 18 million annually. So between 2012 offseason and the start of 2015 the Cubs will drop off 43 million in those players alone. So by back loading the contracts and dropping off the other contracts you are basically coming out even. Thus actually having more money down the road to sign players like Darwin Barney and Starlin Castro to long term deals.

Conclusion

The Cubs in the end are doing what good teams like the Red Sox, Rays, and now even the Yankees are doing; adding impact high profiled free agents to the young core you already have. Looking at this team going into 2012 there will be 14 guys from the 25 man-roster that are either home grown talent or guys who spent significant time in the Cubs system paying their dues. That means only 11 guys on the 25 man roster would be obtained via free agency, it has been a long, long, long time since we saw that on the north side. The Cubs are also finally making the right move by signing impact free agents that are under the age of 32. Not one of the players the Cubs will be signing will be over the age of 31 which lessens the likeliness of the “Soriano Effect.” Yes the Cubs are spending money, yes the Cubs are committing 79 million to just 6 players, but when you have a young core and you spend money wisely you are less likely to see backlash like what Hendry is experiencing now. To me this is the winning formula! By the Cubs doing this successful formula they will obtain what the Yankees and Red Sox have, high expectations and delivering the results fans and management want to see.

What is your take and thoughts???

Until Next Time….

The Cubs are an AAA team!!!

2011-06-05T20:17:00.003-05:00

First off let me say I do not blame Carlos Zambrano and his comments to reporters after the game. While many of you consider this throwing a teammate under the bus, I think Zambrano is showing leadership and making certain that some players are held accountable. Zambrano is putting out there what everyone thinks, the Cubs are "embarrasing" plain and simple.

I will say mistakes come from the top and trickle down. Everyone is held responsible for the results this team is getting. From Tom Ricketts to Tyler Colvin to Mike Quade to Jim Hendry.... Everyone is at fault!

Here are just some mistakes-

- Marmol should have never thrown a slider to Theriot, he cannot hit the high fastballs!
- Koyie Hill does not belong on a ML team, thanks Hendry for that signing.
- DeWitt in LF and Colvin in CF... come on!!! Kids like Snyder and Campana need to play and Brett Jackson needs called up!
- Quade what are you doing first off calling Lopez to face Pujols? I know he is 0-12 against him but that was like 4 years ago. If you bring in Lopez then just walk Pujols and take your chances with the next hitter.

As you see plenty of blame to go around and I hope the comments from Carlos get looked at in a different light than the media is portraying it because for once I am on Z's side.

Cubs=Simply Embarrassing!

No Truth to Tyler Colvin at 3rd....

2011-06-04T12:24:00.002-05:00

I first off want to state I am sorry I made a error on my part about the Tyler Colvin to 3rd base rumors. Looking back at my email regarding possibly Soto and him going to 3rd I miss read the email sent to me by a reliable source. It looks like the Cubs were entertaining the idea of Soto at 3rd for next season and using Colvin more at 1st if Pena is traded.

When posting the rumor I did not give it much thought to having Colvin at third because I had other bigger things on my mind, like my 2nd child coming into the world. I am sorry and embarrassed I would make a "rookie" mistake on my blog and I appreciate you all pointing out my fault. I really do appreciate everyone holding me accountable (even though some more ruthless than others) and helping me make this blog better. I want to thank everyone for reading my blog and posting here as well. I will continue to strive for excellence in making this site the premiere place for Cubs rumors and news.

Thank you to everyone and please check here early and often for the latest Cubs rumors and news. Changes could be coming soon!!!

God Bless!

Falling Cubs Increase Rumor Talk

2011-06-02T22:32:00.000-05:00

Let’s check the latest rumors for the free falling Cubs-

- If the Diamondbacks hold strong and stay in the race in the West Kevin Towers is expected to upgrade certain positions such as 1st base and their starting pitching. Towers and Hendry have made deals in the past and are good friends which make this rumor especially good. The Diamondbacks have had internal discussions about many players but most notably Ryan Dempster and Carlos Pena of the Cubs. Both players are in the final year of their deals unless Dempster exercised his player option for next season which now looks less certain. The Snakes view Pena as an upgrade at first and Dempster would provide stability and depth in the rotation. Demp provides as an upgrade to struggling pitcher Joe Saunders. Pena is also very intriguing for the Dbacks because he would provide veteran leadership, stability at first base, and a power threat in the middle of their lineup.

- The Cleveland Indians have had internal discussions about bringing in an upgrade at third base in which the name Aramis Ramirez has come up. The Indians are said to have the financial flexibility and farm system to acquire an impact bat and a top of the rotation pitcher before the trade deadline if they are still in the race. The Rockies and Giants also have some level of interest in Aramis Ramirez according to sources. It should be noted that after 2010 Ramirez no longer has a no-trade clause so he can be traded to any team without consent.

- Fred Wilpon's recent comments about the stars of his team have sparked trade debate. Now being reported by MLBTR the Mets may consider trading David Wright rather than letting Jose Reyes go via free agency. David Wright is currently out with a fracture in his back which makes him less certain to be traded this season. It is possible the Mets may make him available this winter. If the Cubs decide to trade Aramis before he potentially becomes a free agent next season they will likely turn their attention to the Mets franchise third baseman. There was talk at the beginning of the season about the Cubs trading for David Wright and moving Aramis Ramirez to 1st but that was before the Carlos Pena deal. David Wright makes 15 million in 2012 and has a 16 million dollar club option with a 1 million dollar buyout for 2013. If the Cubs let Ramirez walk after this season you better believe they will make a run at Wright because the 3rd baseman market looks really weak for 2012.

- There is talk among fans that the Cubs should make a run at Jose Reyes and put Starlin Castro at 3rd. Honestly I hate that idea, I think Castro is a much better shortstop than Reyes and moving Castro for him is just ridiculous!

- The Cubs calling up Tyler Colvin to replace Soriano is just plain stupid. It was Brett Jackson’s time in my opinion but according to Cubs officials “he is not ready to make the jump because he is coming off injury” that is BS; if he is well enough to play in AA he is ready to get a shot at the big leagues. Bring the kid up!

Until Next Time…

Cubs Going Down... Trading Off Players is Coming...

2011-05-28T19:38:00.002-05:00

- The Cubs traded for Rodrigo Lopez and sent pitcher Ryan Butcher to Atlanta. The Cubs also designated Robert Coello for assignment to make room for Lopez on the 40 man roster.

- Lopez will get the start Monday in place of recently sent down Casey Coleman. Coleman was sent to AAA because Randy Wells was activated from the DL.

- Lopez is 6-1 with a 2.59 ERA with the Braves minor league club this season. One Cubs scout said Lopez is throwing better than he has in a long time with great movement on his sinker. He will provide the Cubs with veteran leadership and as an inning eater.

- Soto is expected to be activated off the DL Sunday and start behind the dish that day as well. Castillo is expected to be sent back to Iowa in a corresponding move.

- Trade talk is already starting the the struggling 22-28 Chicago Cubs. They are currently 8 games out of first and have 4 teams ahead of them including the Pirates. The Cubs are also 7.5 games out of the wild card with 9 teams ahead of them there. So lets run down the recent trade talk.

***The Red Sox are in need of a right-handed hitting bench bat that can play multiple positions. They have been linked to multi-purpose guy Jeff Baker. No word on what the Cubs could get for him.

***Although the Cubs look like they are in the position to sell they could add an impact player or two that can contribute the next couple of years and is inexpensive money wise. The Cubs have been linked to 4 players recently and talks could progress as we get closer to the deadline. Those four players are Jason Vargas, Francisco Liriano, Gio Gonzalez, and young stud lefty Zach Britton. All four are under team control for two plus years but would likely take a bundle to pry loose especially in Britton and Gonzalez case.

***There are rumors out there about the Yankees, Giants, and Cubs working out a three way trade they would sent Jorge Posada to the Giants (replacing the recently injured Buster Posey), the Yankees would receive Carlos Pena, and the Cubs would get a good prospect like Eric Surkamp or Brandon Crawford from the Giants.

***The Cubs are likely to listen to offers on all players even including Cub favorites like Ryan Dempster and Kerry Wood. Players that will not be moved that are currently on the 25 man roster are Darwin Barney, Geovany Soto, Starlin Castro, and Carlos Marmol. Also prospects like McNutt and Brett Jackson will not be traded as well.

***The Cubs are really trying to make Blake DeWitt looking attractive on the trade market by using on a limited basis and putting him in various positions like LF, 3rd, and 2nd.

Look for the latest Cubs rumors and news here....

Until Next Time...

Cubs Updates

2011-05-25T14:21:00.003-05:00

- Marlon Byrd was placed on the DL with multiple facial fractures after the horrific hit by pitch in Boston. He will likely be out for more than 15 days because he is not able to do any physical activities for the next 2-3 weeks.

- Matt Garza was placed on the 15 day DL and will likely be out until June with a elbow strain.

- Geovany Soto is coming close to returning for the Cubs. He is in extended Spring Training right now.

- Randy Wells is set to come off the DL and pitch on Saturday against the Pirates.

- Andrew Cashner will not pick up a baseball for at least 2 weeks and will have 6-8 weeks of rehab after that. If this does not work for him Cashner could be shelved for the rest of the season.

- Jeff Baker is day to day with a strained left groin.

- The Cubs called up former first round pick Luis Montanez from Iowa and placed Brian Schlitter on the 60 day DL.

- The Cubs had interest in Kevin Slowy of the Twins before his abdominal strain.

- Brett Jackson could get called up in June if any of the other outfielders struggle.

Until Next Time...

Getting Caught Up and Off Guard!

2011-05-20T15:55:00.002-05:00

Getting caught up-

- The Cubs sent Tyler Colvin and Marcus Mateo to AAA while bring up lefty reliever Scott Maine and speedy outfielder Tony Campana.

- In my last blog post I said the Cubs needed to add someone to spark this lineup and I thought the answer would be Brett Jackson, instead it looks like Campana has brought some energy to this mediocre team.

- The Cubs did have some interest in Kevin Millwood before he signed with the Red Sox.

- The Cubs sent Colvin down to AAA for three reasons 1. Struggling to hit for average and power 2. Did not get any playing time 3. Too many players in the minors provide more to the team than he does.

- Randy Wells is set to pitch in AAA Iowa on Sunday, if he pitches well and feels good the following days he would likely join the Cubs rotation on Friday the 27th or Saturday the 28th.

- Andrew Cashner suffered another set-back and will likely be out another 6-8 weeks.

- Doug Davis will likely anchor the staff for the rest of the season if Cashner continues to suffer set-backs.

Interesting thing hit my email box-

So as I am shifting through the large amounts of comments and email regarding the Cubs one thing peeked my interest that I would love to share with you. A guy named WrigleyVendor3 sent me an interesting thought on a trade and what better time to share it as the BoSox and Cubs get ready to face off. Here is what he said- With the Cubs woes and the Boston Red Sox looking for a long term solution at catcher, why don’t they make a trade? I purpose the Cubs get Kevin Youkilis, Lars Anderson, and Jacoby Ellsbury and the Red Sox get Aramis Ramirez, Geovany Soto, Marlon Byrd, and a PTBNL. Please let me know what you think.

Well WrigleyVendor3 here I go. First off I think the Cubs would need to give up more for a package centered on Youkilis and Ellsbury. Lars is a good target for the Cubs because he is young up and coming first baseman but is currently blocked by Adrian Gonzales. Plus still having Soto on the DL kills this trade. Having said that I think overall it is still possible if the Cubs add another player or two once Soto gets healthy again.

From the Cubs point of view I like the idea of the Cubs getting a guy with good power and average that can play 1st and 3rd base really well. Plus looking at Kevin’s stats and price tag he is relatively cheap. The Cubs would also get a legitimate leadoff hitter and would automatically make the Cubs better on the base paths. Looking ahead to next year and having Barney, Castro, Ellsbury, and Jackson in the everyday lineup would add speed and great defense! Not to mention if they would sign a guy like Fielder as well (if you acquire Youkilis contract you cannot sign Pujols to his mega contract). Just take a look at his lineup-

Ellsbury CF
Castro SS
Youkilis 3rd
Fielder 1st
Soriano LF
Jackson RF
Barney 2b
Castillo C
Pitcher

From the Cubs prospective this is a steal. They get rid of Marlon Byrd and his contract at the height of his trade value and Aramis Ramirez in basically the last year of his contract unless the BoSox exercise the team option. They do give up their former All-Star catchers and let’s face it, it is hard to trade a catcher like Soto because they are so few and far between.

From the Red Sox prospective I like aspects of this trade but not the end result. I love the idea of getting Geovany Soto for at least 4 more years because of arbitration. I also like the idea of freeing up 25 million over the next two years to possible get an impact bat for OF like Grady Sizemore through free agency. I also am looking down the road and with Youk being 32 years old, his numbers and health declining I may take a chance on this deal. Aramis Ramirez still provides some of the power and defense Youkilis does so losing him would not hurt as bad. I also give up a blocked prospect in Lars Anderson as well which does not hurt me as bad.

Now for the things I hate about this deal if I am a Sox fan. Youkilis has been a big part of my team and has moved all round the diamond to help this team win. I don’t feel like thanking him by shipping him off to another city. I have no clue if his replacement Aramis Ramirez would stay healthy or have his numbers translate to the AL and its pitching staff. I also hate the fact I have to trade Ellsbury in this deal. Guys of his caliber do not come around very often and the fact I trade him at such a young age also hurts. I think trading him straight up for Soto is asking to much despite the issues in regards to the disappointing season Jacoby had last year. The other thing I am worried about is replacing his production something I don’t believe Byrd provides. Overall the cons out weight the pros for the Red Sox so unless the Cubs add a guy like Brett Jackson, Jay Jackson, or a young caliber player like that I don’t do this deal.

Seeing it from both sides is sometimes tough to do and this is one of those cases. It would be hard to determine whether Soto, Byrd and Ramirez would matter more to the Red Sox than Ellsbury and Youkilis. It is also hard to determine if the Cubs would even be interested in a possible declining Youkilis with 2 years 25 million left on his deal when they could try to make a splash by landing Pujols. They could also be worried about Jacoby’s work ethic and attitude which baseball saw falter some last season. All these are reasons why it is hard to judge a trade like this. I love the deal for the Cubs and hate it for the Red Sox.

What do you guys think?

Until Next Time…..

BABY IS HERE!

2011-05-20T15:55:00.001-05:00

IT’S A BOY! ON Monday May 16th at 12:09 PM Parker Jordan was born. He weighs in at 7 lbs 8 oz and is 21 inches long. We are truly happy that God blessed us with another child and hopefully another future Chicago Cubs player.

Watch for a “getting caught up blog update” soon!