- The Chicago Cubs have signed lefty Gerardo Concepcion to a $7M Major League contract according to numerous media outlets. Since this is indeed a Major League contract then he will have to be added to the 40-man roster which means a corresponding move will have to take place. The person who gets the information and impact of this deal down perfectly is Brett at Bleacher Nation. Check it out here.
- I have to toot my own horn here because a lot of people love to point out when you are wrong so in turn I love to point out when I am right. I was first to report the Cubs mad3 an aggressive offer to Concepcion which you can find here and the first to report it being down to only three teams including the Cubs that Concepcion was to pick from which is found here.
- This deal does in fact make it more appealing for Soler and Cespedes to come to Chicago. One thing is for sure; if the Cubs can land Soler and Cepedes next this would be the greatest offseason I have ever seen in my life-time for the Cubs.
- The Nationals are looking to trade lefty Pitcher John Lannan because of the recent acquisition of Edwin Jackson. Lannan is only 27 years old and a lefty making $5M this coming season. How does this effect the Cubs? Well my source said the Cubs and Nationals talks about a possible Byrd for Lannan have heated up and then added that the Cubs would likely have to include a top 25 prospect along with Byrd to make the deal happen. Lannan is making $5M next season and Byrd will be making $6.5M. You can see Lannan's stats here.
- The Cubs are still very much interested in Adrian Cardenas who was designated for assignment recently. It it unsure if the Cubs would trade for Cardenas but I fully expect a claim to be placed if the A's go that route.
Until Next Time...
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
Who Talking, Who is Walking, and Who is Doing Both...
- Theo Epstein held a round-table event Monday and gives some good quotes on baseball and looking forward in Chicago.
- Matt Garza’s arbitration hearing is set for Friday which is really soon for a reason. The Cubs want to get the amount settled fast so they have the option to deal him because no team right now is interested in acquiring Garza. The reason is simple; they do not know the amount he will make next season. The Cubs submitted the bid of $7.95M while Garza asked for a whopping $12.5M. In a way you kind of hope they go to the hearing because I see it no way possible that Garza will be awarded a 7 million dollar bonus from last year to this year.
- The Tribune is reporting that the Ricketts family and key staff members are expected to travel to their new site in the Dominican Republic. Brett at Bleacher Nation has a great take on Ricketts trip to the Dominican and other possible reasons he is making the trip down there.
- Jim Hendry has falling pretty far by becoming a special assistant to Brian Cashman and the NY Yankees. The Yankees fit Hendry’s mold of signing players to big contracts with NTC on the later part of their career. BUUURRRNNNN!
- Levine spewed some knowledge over the past couple of days and had some interesting tidbits-
------- The Cubs are in need of middle infield help and are looking for a utility infielder. There are currently 4 non-roster invitees that could fit that mold with Alfredo Amezaga, Edgar Gonzalez, Bobby Scales, and Matt Tolbert.
------- Levine also says the Cubs are in search of a back-up catcher but again they have Welington Castillo or Steve Clevenger as a backup for Soto plus non-roster invite Jason Jaramillo could fit the bill.
------- Bruce does not see Soriano as a part-time player. He will either be playing LF for the Cubs or being a DH for an American League team or being outright released.
------- Levine does not see the Red Sox getting a significant player in return for Theo Epstein.
------- The Cubs are concentrating solely on Cespedes and Soler and Levine things Soler fits the Cubs better and I agree. Although I still want both!
------- Theo and Co. are going with Jeff Baker as the backup first baseman for the Cubs according to Levine. There are still whispers that Dlee could make his way back to the north side.
- The Cubs and A’s are interested in signing Todd Coffey. I bet both are only interested in a minor league deal.
- Rosenthal says the Cubs had interest in signing Chad Qualls before the Phillies signed him.
- Bud Selig has said he has not received written arguments from the Cubs or Red Sox on the compensation case which clearly indicates nothing is close to being done.
Until Next Time…
- Matt Garza’s arbitration hearing is set for Friday which is really soon for a reason. The Cubs want to get the amount settled fast so they have the option to deal him because no team right now is interested in acquiring Garza. The reason is simple; they do not know the amount he will make next season. The Cubs submitted the bid of $7.95M while Garza asked for a whopping $12.5M. In a way you kind of hope they go to the hearing because I see it no way possible that Garza will be awarded a 7 million dollar bonus from last year to this year.
- The Tribune is reporting that the Ricketts family and key staff members are expected to travel to their new site in the Dominican Republic. Brett at Bleacher Nation has a great take on Ricketts trip to the Dominican and other possible reasons he is making the trip down there.
- Jim Hendry has falling pretty far by becoming a special assistant to Brian Cashman and the NY Yankees. The Yankees fit Hendry’s mold of signing players to big contracts with NTC on the later part of their career. BUUURRRNNNN!
- Levine spewed some knowledge over the past couple of days and had some interesting tidbits-
------- The Cubs are in need of middle infield help and are looking for a utility infielder. There are currently 4 non-roster invitees that could fit that mold with Alfredo Amezaga, Edgar Gonzalez, Bobby Scales, and Matt Tolbert.
------- Levine also says the Cubs are in search of a back-up catcher but again they have Welington Castillo or Steve Clevenger as a backup for Soto plus non-roster invite Jason Jaramillo could fit the bill.
------- Bruce does not see Soriano as a part-time player. He will either be playing LF for the Cubs or being a DH for an American League team or being outright released.
------- Levine does not see the Red Sox getting a significant player in return for Theo Epstein.
------- The Cubs are concentrating solely on Cespedes and Soler and Levine things Soler fits the Cubs better and I agree. Although I still want both!
------- Theo and Co. are going with Jeff Baker as the backup first baseman for the Cubs according to Levine. There are still whispers that Dlee could make his way back to the north side.
- The Cubs and A’s are interested in signing Todd Coffey. I bet both are only interested in a minor league deal.
- Rosenthal says the Cubs had interest in signing Chad Qualls before the Phillies signed him.
- Bud Selig has said he has not received written arguments from the Cubs or Red Sox on the compensation case which clearly indicates nothing is close to being done.
Until Next Time…
Monday, January 30, 2012
Cubs Release Spring Training Invites
The Cubs have invited 21 non-roster players to ML Spring Training. February 18th is when pitcher and catchers report to Mesa but the first full workout is Friday February 24th. Lets check out those players-
9 pitchers-
Marco Carrillo
Manny Corpas
Jay Jackson
Rodrigo Lopez
Trey McNutt
Blake Parker
Dae-Eun Rhee
Trever Miller
Chris Rusin
3 catchers-
Michael Brenly
Jason Jaramillo
Blake Lalli
5 infielders-
Alfredo Amezaga
Edgar Gonzalez
Jonathan Mota
Bobby Scales
Matt Tolbert
4 outfielders-
Jim Adduci
Jae-Hoon Ha
Brett Jackson
Joe Mather
No one really surprising on this list but the list is somewhat impressive compared to most years. I think the infielders have the best chance to break camp with the Cubs along with some relief pitching. I think Brett Jackson has a 50/50 chance to break the camp with the Cubs and the rest have worse odds than that. Out of the 21 players I think (besides Jackson) Matt Tolbert, Alfredo Amezaga, Manny Corpas, and Jason Jaramillo have the best chance to break camp with the Cubs.
Some guys to watch is Jae-Hoon Ha, Blake Parker, Dae-Eun Rhee, and Trey McNutt. All could really surprise in Spring Training and give you a taste of the future.
Seeing this release gets me giddy because it means baseball is right around the corner!
Until Next Time..
9 pitchers-
Marco Carrillo
Manny Corpas
Jay Jackson
Rodrigo Lopez
Trey McNutt
Blake Parker
Dae-Eun Rhee
Trever Miller
Chris Rusin
3 catchers-
Michael Brenly
Jason Jaramillo
Blake Lalli
5 infielders-
Alfredo Amezaga
Edgar Gonzalez
Jonathan Mota
Bobby Scales
Matt Tolbert
4 outfielders-
Jim Adduci
Jae-Hoon Ha
Brett Jackson
Joe Mather
No one really surprising on this list but the list is somewhat impressive compared to most years. I think the infielders have the best chance to break camp with the Cubs along with some relief pitching. I think Brett Jackson has a 50/50 chance to break the camp with the Cubs and the rest have worse odds than that. Out of the 21 players I think (besides Jackson) Matt Tolbert, Alfredo Amezaga, Manny Corpas, and Jason Jaramillo have the best chance to break camp with the Cubs.
Some guys to watch is Jae-Hoon Ha, Blake Parker, Dae-Eun Rhee, and Trey McNutt. All could really surprise in Spring Training and give you a taste of the future.
Seeing this release gets me giddy because it means baseball is right around the corner!
Until Next Time..
Minor Signings, free agent rumors, and the Rays like Soto?
The Cubs have signed lefty Trever Miller to a minor league deal. Find out more about him here.
- Bobby Scales signed a minor league deal with the Cubs with an invite to ST.
- Jim Bowden said on twitter that teams involved in Cespedes have much different scouting opinions in terms of position and bat.
- According to a rival exec Bud Selig will give the Red Sox a significant player in return of Theo. I just do not see that happening.
- There is no timetable on the compensation issue for Selig according to sources.
- If the Cubs do sign Cespedes then expect a flurry of moves starting with Byrd and/or Soriano traded or in Soriano’s possible case released.
- The agent for Geraldo Concepcion has told more than 7 teams that they are no longer in the running for his services.
- My source said that Concepcion is down to 3 teams including the cubs to pick from.
- According to sources the Cubs have officially made an offer to Cespedes.
- Jorge Soler has not gained residency and it has not been determined if or how close he is from gaining residency.
- The Cubs are seen as front runners for Cespedes according to many reports.
- The Cubs and Yankees are still discussing a deal involving Dempster but are looking to address other more pressing needs first according to sources.
- The Cubs prefer to trade Garza than Dempster a source close to the Cubs.
- Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times is reporting the Rays are linked to Geovany Soto and could be dangling Jeff Niemann or Wade Davis. Davis will make $1.5M next season and is 26 while Niemann is two years older and will make between $2.75M and $3.2M. If the Rays want Soto and are willing to trade Niemann or Davis straight up for him I say do it. Although I would prefer Davis to Niemann.
- If the Cubs do make the trade above you can expect them to then in turn trade a starter to make a spot for Davis or Niemann.
- Bleacher Nation says the Blue Jays have re-emerged as an interested party in Garza.
- Bobby Scales signed a minor league deal with the Cubs with an invite to ST.
- Jim Bowden said on twitter that teams involved in Cespedes have much different scouting opinions in terms of position and bat.
- According to a rival exec Bud Selig will give the Red Sox a significant player in return of Theo. I just do not see that happening.
- There is no timetable on the compensation issue for Selig according to sources.
- If the Cubs do sign Cespedes then expect a flurry of moves starting with Byrd and/or Soriano traded or in Soriano’s possible case released.
- The agent for Geraldo Concepcion has told more than 7 teams that they are no longer in the running for his services.
- My source said that Concepcion is down to 3 teams including the cubs to pick from.
- According to sources the Cubs have officially made an offer to Cespedes.
- Jorge Soler has not gained residency and it has not been determined if or how close he is from gaining residency.
- The Cubs are seen as front runners for Cespedes according to many reports.
- The Cubs and Yankees are still discussing a deal involving Dempster but are looking to address other more pressing needs first according to sources.
- The Cubs prefer to trade Garza than Dempster a source close to the Cubs.
- Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times is reporting the Rays are linked to Geovany Soto and could be dangling Jeff Niemann or Wade Davis. Davis will make $1.5M next season and is 26 while Niemann is two years older and will make between $2.75M and $3.2M. If the Rays want Soto and are willing to trade Niemann or Davis straight up for him I say do it. Although I would prefer Davis to Niemann.
- If the Cubs do make the trade above you can expect them to then in turn trade a starter to make a spot for Davis or Niemann.
- Bleacher Nation says the Blue Jays have re-emerged as an interested party in Garza.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Cubs Rumor Mill Update
- 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....
- 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....
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Prince, Garza, Concepcion, Soler, Soriano, and Cespedes
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...
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...
Friday, January 20, 2012
Talking Trades, Firing Up Free Agency, and Invitees
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..
- 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..
Monday, January 16, 2012
A Rumor Here... A Rumor There
- 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...
- 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...
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Cubs Quick Hits
- 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...
- 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...
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Cubs Rumors and News- Wood, Soler, Garza, Marmol, Soriano, and more...
- 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....
- 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....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)