- Jeff Baker was traded to the Cubs today for a minor league pitcher named Al Alburquerque. To make room for him on roster they DFA Ryan Freel. Freel did not do well for the Cubs, neither did Joey Gathright for that matter. Lets hope Baker is the answer for the Cubs super utility man. Last season Jeff Baker hit .268 with 22 doubles, one triple, 12 home runs and 48 RBIs in 104 games. I think Baker is a good addition for the Cubs. I wanted to trade him for Angel Guzman earlier this year but I glad they waited! That would have been a mistake.
- The Cubs are expected to have Aramis Ramirez in their starting lineup on Monday if everything goes well in his rehab at bats. Angel Guzman and Reed Johnson is also due back on Monday. I expect some interesting moves to be made. I expect Hart, Fuld, and Fox to be sent to AAA unless for some reason a trade happens.
- Arangure Jr. says the Cubs may have signed Wilson Contreras for 850K.
- The Cubs are looking to bolster the bullpen and are looking at Pirates' closer Matt Capps and Padres' righty Cla Meredith.
- David Kaplan had an interesting tidbit on the radio the other day. Some Cubs execs are open the idea to move Theriot to 2b and acquiring an above average or big named shortstop. The only names that come to mind is Hanley Ramirez ( I wish), Stephen Drew, Cristian Guzman, and
Jhonny Peralta (who needs a change of scenery). Other than that I do not see a fit.
That is it for now, more to come!
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
DeRosa to Cards, Teahen on Cubs List?
With Mark DeRosa traded to the Cards yesterday (which burned me bad) and the Cubs are not getting the production they need from Bradley and as well as 2nd base. They will now turn to utility guy Mark Teahen. Teahen has played all over the diamond for the Royals and could be the next best option to DeRosa. Teahen not only would provide power and good defense but versatility because he can play 1st, 2nd, 3rd, some short, and the corner spots in the outfield. Peter Gammons tweeted about this yesterday saying the Cubs as possible suitors.
It is about time the Cubs start shaking things up and making deals. Get on it Jim!
It is about time the Cubs start shaking things up and making deals. Get on it Jim!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Cubs Talk- Bradley, DeRosa, and Cubs Sale...
Here is the last update for maybe a week Cub fans. A lot of things going on now but I will have your updates as soon as I have time to get to them. Thanks for your patients!
- Bleed Cubbie Blue says Milton Bradley must go. Not only is Bradley not producing but his off the field antics, words with Lou, and teammates bad mouthing him are really hurting the team. I agree with BCB.
- Gordon Wittenmyer of The Chicago Sun-Times says the Cubs and Indians talked about a trade earlier this month that would bring Mark DeRosa back to the north side. A lot is depending on Aramis, the Cubs sale, and asking price. I am in favor of DeRosa because he is an all around good guy and good baseball player.
- The Cubs sale is moving in a good direction. Cubs.com said this-
The Chicago Tribune quoted sources as saying the Ricketts family and Tribune Co. have made "good progress" recently in negotiations to reach an agreement on the sale of the Cubs, Wrigley Field and a 25 percent stake in Comcast SportsNet Chicago.
"We're closing the gap," a source told the newspaper. "The attitudes are much more positive."
This is really good news Cub fans!
Til' next time Cub Fans!
- Bleed Cubbie Blue says Milton Bradley must go. Not only is Bradley not producing but his off the field antics, words with Lou, and teammates bad mouthing him are really hurting the team. I agree with BCB.
- Gordon Wittenmyer of The Chicago Sun-Times says the Cubs and Indians talked about a trade earlier this month that would bring Mark DeRosa back to the north side. A lot is depending on Aramis, the Cubs sale, and asking price. I am in favor of DeRosa because he is an all around good guy and good baseball player.
- The Cubs sale is moving in a good direction. Cubs.com said this-
The Chicago Tribune quoted sources as saying the Ricketts family and Tribune Co. have made "good progress" recently in negotiations to reach an agreement on the sale of the Cubs, Wrigley Field and a 25 percent stake in Comcast SportsNet Chicago.
"We're closing the gap," a source told the newspaper. "The attitudes are much more positive."
This is really good news Cub fans!
Til' next time Cub Fans!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Cubs Talk- DeRosa, Teahen, and More....
- The Cubs have considered bringing back Mark DeRosa. You can't blame them for trying to get him back. He would provide the versatility and bat the Cubs need on this team. Guys like Freel and Miles just do not cut it. Anyone who does not approve of this move needs their head checked.
- The Cubs are also very interested in Mark Teahen. He would also provide the Cubs with versatility and a good lefty bat. The Royals are to be listening to offers on everyone except their core players which leaves off Teahen strangely. I would love to see a Mike Fontenot, Mitch Atkins, and mid-level prospect for Teahen. That would make sense for both teams.
- Geovany Soto tested positive for marijuana while playing for Team Puerto Rico during the WBC. I do not see this being that big of an issue. It was once and he said it was a big mistake.
- Reed Johnson was placed on the 15 day DL and the Cubs called on Ryan Freel.
That is it for now. I may not be able to update the Hot Stove until maybe Monday or Tuesday because of a crazy weekend ahead. But stay tuned!
- The Cubs are also very interested in Mark Teahen. He would also provide the Cubs with versatility and a good lefty bat. The Royals are to be listening to offers on everyone except their core players which leaves off Teahen strangely. I would love to see a Mike Fontenot, Mitch Atkins, and mid-level prospect for Teahen. That would make sense for both teams.
- Geovany Soto tested positive for marijuana while playing for Team Puerto Rico during the WBC. I do not see this being that big of an issue. It was once and he said it was a big mistake.
- Reed Johnson was placed on the 15 day DL and the Cubs called on Ryan Freel.
That is it for now. I may not be able to update the Hot Stove until maybe Monday or Tuesday because of a crazy weekend ahead. But stay tuned!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Cubs Agree to Terms with Brett Jackson.
Thanks to MLBTR for this one-
According to an MLB.com press release, the Cubs have agreed to terms with first round pick Brett Jackson. The 20-year-old outfielder bats left-handed and received praise from Baseball America on his athleticism. The Cubs selected him with their first pick in the draft, 31st overall.
Jackson should be a good guy for the outfield in the next 3 years or so. Another guy I am awaiting to see if the Cubs signed is Austin Kirk. He is the scouting reports on him-
Consistent lefty that was dominant this year at the high school level with an overpower fastball with late movement. Throws in the low 90s, but upped his stock a bit by being clocked as high as 95 mph in the state semifinals. Sharp breaking ball coupled with a solid changeup give him three quality pitches to keep hitters off balance. Struck out 111 with only 21 walks in 62 innings this spring.- coachesaid.com
Austin Kirk- LHP 6'1", 205 lbs, 19 yrs old, bats left, throws left: This kid played for a high school baseball powerhouse in Oklahoma that has produced several professional players. He posted a record of 9-1 0.45 ERA with 21 walks versus 111 K's in 62 IP. What I like about this is it does not appear the kid was abused, because he was on a good team (unlike Kerry Wood, who was the bread and butter of his team in the playoffs). Has overpowering fastball (at least on high school terms) that was clocked at 95 MPH in state semi-finals, as well as a sharp breaking ball and solid change-up. This might be a difficult sign, as he's already signed a letter of intent with the University of Oklahoma. An important note ... is he's also a good hitter too, hitting .400+ with 5 HR this year when he wasn't pitching. So, he has several things going for him ... a very polished arm, playing for a baseball powerhouse in high school, not having his arm abused, AND apparently he's a really good kid with a solid head on his shoulders. There was a 70 year old that kind of adopted the team as his own, and was a huge fan of Kirk's...It's almost like a Babe Ruth story. The guy was on his deathbed still rooting for the team, and recently passed away, and Kirk had given him his old jersey, a signed ball, and their state championship medal. When he was buried, the guy had on Kirk's jersey, the ball, and medal. It was a very heartwarming story, and I hope we can sign a kid of that type of ability AND character.
Austin Kirk video
According to an MLB.com press release, the Cubs have agreed to terms with first round pick Brett Jackson. The 20-year-old outfielder bats left-handed and received praise from Baseball America on his athleticism. The Cubs selected him with their first pick in the draft, 31st overall.
Jackson should be a good guy for the outfield in the next 3 years or so. Another guy I am awaiting to see if the Cubs signed is Austin Kirk. He is the scouting reports on him-
Consistent lefty that was dominant this year at the high school level with an overpower fastball with late movement. Throws in the low 90s, but upped his stock a bit by being clocked as high as 95 mph in the state semifinals. Sharp breaking ball coupled with a solid changeup give him three quality pitches to keep hitters off balance. Struck out 111 with only 21 walks in 62 innings this spring.- coachesaid.com
Austin Kirk- LHP 6'1", 205 lbs, 19 yrs old, bats left, throws left: This kid played for a high school baseball powerhouse in Oklahoma that has produced several professional players. He posted a record of 9-1 0.45 ERA with 21 walks versus 111 K's in 62 IP. What I like about this is it does not appear the kid was abused, because he was on a good team (unlike Kerry Wood, who was the bread and butter of his team in the playoffs). Has overpowering fastball (at least on high school terms) that was clocked at 95 MPH in state semi-finals, as well as a sharp breaking ball and solid change-up. This might be a difficult sign, as he's already signed a letter of intent with the University of Oklahoma. An important note ... is he's also a good hitter too, hitting .400+ with 5 HR this year when he wasn't pitching. So, he has several things going for him ... a very polished arm, playing for a baseball powerhouse in high school, not having his arm abused, AND apparently he's a really good kid with a solid head on his shoulders. There was a 70 year old that kind of adopted the team as his own, and was a huge fan of Kirk's...It's almost like a Babe Ruth story. The guy was on his deathbed still rooting for the team, and recently passed away, and Kirk had given him his old jersey, a signed ball, and their state championship medal. When he was buried, the guy had on Kirk's jersey, the ball, and medal. It was a very heartwarming story, and I hope we can sign a kid of that type of ability AND character.
Austin Kirk video
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Happy Father's Day! Brain Roberts Anyone???
Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there! Lets hope the Cubs give us a win today! Here are the latest from the Hot Stove-
- Brain Roberts? I know, I know, we all thought he would be a Cub the past two years but that has not happened, but could it happen this year after he signed an extension?? Rick Dempsey thinks it is time for the club to dump over priced players and keep the youth movement going. He names players like George Sherrill (who the Cubs should look that), Jeremy Guthrie(Another guy I really like), Aubrey Huff, Melvin Mora, and yes Brain Roberts. Rick has this to say-
He is a quality position player who could draw a lot of attention from a contender and be worth a few good young prospects. Now the only reason I suggest B-Rob is because he has probably missed his window of opportunity to win with the O's and now that the nucleus is becoming much younger, having to wait two more years to contend may take Brian out of his prime and out of his value. I would hate to see him go, but it might be the best overall for the Orioles for the future.
I do realize a lot of concern with the "ownership" situation may put some limitations on players we get at the deadline. Especially since some writers think the Cubs can't add Pedro because of the money issue and he only cost 5 million. But regardless of what the writers say, Jim has said that he will do whatever deal makes the most sense for the Cubs, no if's, and's, or but's. Brian is owed 10 million over the next 4 seasons and the O's may be willing to either take on a bad contract to off set the money or pay a lot of the contract if they get quality players in return.
The Cubs have been looking for a true lead off man since they signed Soriano and they could get one in Roberts for the right price. I honestly believe that Roberts would not only provide the Cubs a switch hitting lead off hitter but the catalyst they need to push them into and through the playoffs.
I am not sure of what the O's would want in return for Roberts but you better believe they would want some good young prospects to build for the future. Guys like Randy Wells, Jake Fox (perfect for DH), Jeff Samardzija, Jose Ascanio, and others would really interest them. But to get those quality guys they would need to pay a large portion of Roberts' contract. The Cubs could also dump a large contract onto the O's but the only players worth dumping are Milton Bradley and maybe Fukudome (which I do not endorse trading) to balance the money some. But the O's already have a good young outfield that they do want to disturb so that is not a likely option.
Either way if the Orioles make Roberts available, Jim should be the first GM to call!
- Brain Roberts? I know, I know, we all thought he would be a Cub the past two years but that has not happened, but could it happen this year after he signed an extension?? Rick Dempsey thinks it is time for the club to dump over priced players and keep the youth movement going. He names players like George Sherrill (who the Cubs should look that), Jeremy Guthrie(Another guy I really like), Aubrey Huff, Melvin Mora, and yes Brain Roberts. Rick has this to say-
He is a quality position player who could draw a lot of attention from a contender and be worth a few good young prospects. Now the only reason I suggest B-Rob is because he has probably missed his window of opportunity to win with the O's and now that the nucleus is becoming much younger, having to wait two more years to contend may take Brian out of his prime and out of his value. I would hate to see him go, but it might be the best overall for the Orioles for the future.
I do realize a lot of concern with the "ownership" situation may put some limitations on players we get at the deadline. Especially since some writers think the Cubs can't add Pedro because of the money issue and he only cost 5 million. But regardless of what the writers say, Jim has said that he will do whatever deal makes the most sense for the Cubs, no if's, and's, or but's. Brian is owed 10 million over the next 4 seasons and the O's may be willing to either take on a bad contract to off set the money or pay a lot of the contract if they get quality players in return.
The Cubs have been looking for a true lead off man since they signed Soriano and they could get one in Roberts for the right price. I honestly believe that Roberts would not only provide the Cubs a switch hitting lead off hitter but the catalyst they need to push them into and through the playoffs.
I am not sure of what the O's would want in return for Roberts but you better believe they would want some good young prospects to build for the future. Guys like Randy Wells, Jake Fox (perfect for DH), Jeff Samardzija, Jose Ascanio, and others would really interest them. But to get those quality guys they would need to pay a large portion of Roberts' contract. The Cubs could also dump a large contract onto the O's but the only players worth dumping are Milton Bradley and maybe Fukudome (which I do not endorse trading) to balance the money some. But the O's already have a good young outfield that they do want to disturb so that is not a likely option.
Either way if the Orioles make Roberts available, Jim should be the first GM to call!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Cubs Talk- Pedro, Cubs Sale, and more.....
Sorry it took so long for an update. You have to bare with me while I am in a transition with moving. Here is the rumors for this week..
- The Cubs sale may effect what the Cubs do at the deadline.
- Jon Heyman says that the sale also could kill any deal for Pedro. Although other reports say that he Cubs are the most poised to sign Pedro especially if any of their pitching goes down.
- ESPNChicago.com's Bruce Levine quoted a source saying Sam Zell has reopened negotiations with a group out of New York led by Marc Utay, who is a former North Suburban Chicago resident, and Leo Hindery. This is posturing for Zell to get top dollar from Ricketts. I do not expect Marc Utay to own the Cubs after everything Ricketts has done to obtain them.
- There is a interesting rumor circling the web that I caught wind of. It is a three team deal that would net the Cubs Mark Teahen, the Royals would receive Jeff Francoeur, and the Braves would get Jose Guillen and PTBNL and cash from the Cubs. This would be a great trade for the Cubs but not for the Braves considering they would just be getting a more expensive mediocre hitter. Probably not a lot of stock in this rumor but I find it very interesting.
- Jim Hendry said they may be very busy at the deadline but is unsure of what the Cubs needs are since the middle of July is still weeks away. Jim says that their needs now might not be their needs in July. Jim did say if they need to add or make a move they will do so in July or if the right deal comes along but they will not make a move just to make a move.
That is it for now Cub fans!
- The Cubs sale may effect what the Cubs do at the deadline.
- Jon Heyman says that the sale also could kill any deal for Pedro. Although other reports say that he Cubs are the most poised to sign Pedro especially if any of their pitching goes down.
- ESPNChicago.com's Bruce Levine quoted a source saying Sam Zell has reopened negotiations with a group out of New York led by Marc Utay, who is a former North Suburban Chicago resident, and Leo Hindery. This is posturing for Zell to get top dollar from Ricketts. I do not expect Marc Utay to own the Cubs after everything Ricketts has done to obtain them.
- There is a interesting rumor circling the web that I caught wind of. It is a three team deal that would net the Cubs Mark Teahen, the Royals would receive Jeff Francoeur, and the Braves would get Jose Guillen and PTBNL and cash from the Cubs. This would be a great trade for the Cubs but not for the Braves considering they would just be getting a more expensive mediocre hitter. Probably not a lot of stock in this rumor but I find it very interesting.
- Jim Hendry said they may be very busy at the deadline but is unsure of what the Cubs needs are since the middle of July is still weeks away. Jim says that their needs now might not be their needs in July. Jim did say if they need to add or make a move they will do so in July or if the right deal comes along but they will not make a move just to make a move.
That is it for now Cub fans!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Cubs Call Up Fox, Waddell to DL.
- The Cubs have called up Jake Fox and put Jason Waddell on the DL. Fox will provide the Cubs extra pop off the bench while playing DH in the some the interleague games coming up.
- The Cubs may be looking to trade the surplus of above average young starters in AA and AAA to get a power bat in the everyday lineup or a guy that can split time with Fonty at 2b. The Marlins have some players that could really interest the Cubs like Dan Uggla and Jorge Cantu. Another player on the block is Felipe López of the Dbacks. The Dbacks are poised for a fire sale at the deadline and Lopez will likely be a good trade chip for them. Lopez who will be a free agent after the season is hitting .304 with 4 homers 11 RBI and 4 SB while playing all over the infield. The versatile switch hitter would be the ideal player to come off the bench for Lou or spot start somewhere in the infield. I would like to see maybe a Esmailin Caridad or Mitch Atkins swapped for Lopez. Then the Cubs could put Miles on waivers, trade him, place him on the DL, or outright release him. Miles is just dead weight while Lopez will actually contribute.
That is it for now, GOOO CUBS!
- The Cubs may be looking to trade the surplus of above average young starters in AA and AAA to get a power bat in the everyday lineup or a guy that can split time with Fonty at 2b. The Marlins have some players that could really interest the Cubs like Dan Uggla and Jorge Cantu. Another player on the block is Felipe López of the Dbacks. The Dbacks are poised for a fire sale at the deadline and Lopez will likely be a good trade chip for them. Lopez who will be a free agent after the season is hitting .304 with 4 homers 11 RBI and 4 SB while playing all over the infield. The versatile switch hitter would be the ideal player to come off the bench for Lou or spot start somewhere in the infield. I would like to see maybe a Esmailin Caridad or Mitch Atkins swapped for Lopez. Then the Cubs could put Miles on waivers, trade him, place him on the DL, or outright release him. Miles is just dead weight while Lopez will actually contribute.
That is it for now, GOOO CUBS!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Two Must Read Articles....
Saturday, June 13, 2009
The Talk- Pedro, Bradley, and Peavy...
- The Cubs have confirmed interest in Pedro Martinez and watched him work out earlier this week. Nick Carfardo said Pedro hit 94 MPH on his fastball during the work out. The reason this is so important is because the Cubs currently have a good rotation but have health and stability issues. Harden is very injury pron, Marshall is needed in the pen, and Randy Wells looks like he may be coming back down to earth. With all that the Cubs need a veteran pitcher to build up there rotation and I think Pedro is the answer.
- Bradley is not making any friends in Chicago. Not only is he slumping, he is not playing sound baseball. If he is not striking out and blaming umpires then he is giving away runs. When is it enough? Bradley is not a Cub and Hendry needs to find someone who wants to to be a Chicago Cub. The Cubs need a player like Adam Dunn (who wanted to be a Cub) or Brad Hawpe (who is a professional player. Right now, Bradley is not that type of player.
- Peavy could be out up to three months with the ankle injury he suffered. Maybe this will put the Peavy to Cubs rumor to rest!
Til next time Cub fans.
- Bradley is not making any friends in Chicago. Not only is he slumping, he is not playing sound baseball. If he is not striking out and blaming umpires then he is giving away runs. When is it enough? Bradley is not a Cub and Hendry needs to find someone who wants to to be a Chicago Cub. The Cubs need a player like Adam Dunn (who wanted to be a Cub) or Brad Hawpe (who is a professional player. Right now, Bradley is not that type of player.
- Peavy could be out up to three months with the ankle injury he suffered. Maybe this will put the Peavy to Cubs rumor to rest!
Til next time Cub fans.
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