Lilly Out, Another Target Traded, and Other Talk....

- There is a rumored trade that has been going back and fourth on whether it is true. The report earlier today is that the White Sox traded Chris Getz and Josh Fields for Mark Teahen. Teahen was on the short list of players the Cubs have been watching via the trade market. More on this as it becomes available.

- The Red Sox also acquired a guy the Cubs had an eye on last season and was rumored as an inexpenisve replacement for Milton Bradley, Jeremy Hermida. The Sox got him for pitchers Jose Alvarez and Hunter Jones. Interesting move for the Sox.

- Ted Lilly underwent arthoscopy surgery yesterday which surprised us all. Jim Hendry has said he does not see the Cubs adding pitching depth because Lilly should be throwing around April with no set backs. Jim, learn your lesson, nothing goes as plan. Lilly will start the season on the 15 day DL according to reports. Regardless what Jim says other media outlets are reporting the Cubs will look to add pitching depth, some even saying a top of the rotation starter, maybe even resigning Rich Harden. Let's look at some affordable options for the Cubs-

Erik Bedard- Coming off an injury, maybe a cheap deal but not a guarantee he won't hit the DL with Lilly.
Doug Davis- Ideal inning eating lefty, should rank right up there.
Justin Duchescherer- Maybe to expensive but could go in the pen once Lilly comes back.
Randy Johnson- Cubs had interest last season, would like to see him here for a 3 million a year.
Noah Lowry- Will come cheap with big upside.
Brett Myers- Phillies will probably re-sign him but I would love him on the Cubs. Could work in the pen as well.
Vicente Padilla- Good option.
Ben Sheets- If he does not break the bank, he should be at the top of the list.
Brad Penny- Another guy who could come cheap.
John Smoltz- Would love to sign him!
Randy Wolf- May come too expensive but would be ideal.

The Cubs have also entertained the idea of trading Milton Bradley to the Rangers for Kevin Millwood. That would be a done deal in my book!

- The Cub Reported has what they think will happen with the Cubs in the coming weeks. They note that Heilman maybe traded to the Giants with Bradley for Rowand. I would also do that deal in a second! They also mention that depending on Milton Bradley will determine whether the Cubs bring back Reed Johnson. They do mention Rajai Davis as an available outfielder who is eligible for salary arbitration as a "Super Two." He would come cheaper than the Reed Johnson salary which would be around 3 million a year. Here is Rajai Davis stats. At only 30 years old and posting 41 SB last season he could be a very valuable 4th outfielder for the Cubs. I like the Davis idea.

The GM meeting start Monday in Chicago, so expect the Hot Stove to get really HOT!