Lou Gone.. Who Next..

Lets look at the recent Cubs talk as Aram lights up Houston....

- Lou Pinella announced today that he will be retiring at the end of the season. He did a good job as the Cubs manager sending the Cubs to the playoffs two years in a row. He had nothing but nice things to say about the Cubs, Chicago, and the fans. I wish him nothing but the best and thank him for his efforts in the windy city.

- USATODAY runs down the list of possible replacements for Sweet Lou. I think Joe Girardi is a pipe dream but would be my first pick. After that I would love to see Ryne Sandberg or Bob Brenly get the nod. I am not a Joe Torre guy and if the Cubs get Tony LaRussa then he better bring in Dave Duncan! I still think a combo of Bob Brenly and Ryne Sandberg would be great. Make one a manager and the other the bench coach.

- Even though Lou is gone do not expect Jim Hendry to follow. There will likely be "no change" in the GM position for the Cubs.

- The Angels are reportedly interested in Alberto Callaspo but sources are telling me the Cubs are interested in Callaspo as well since he is a offensive upgrade over Theriot and Fontenot and will cost them less money in the long run. The Cubs could offer up Jeff Samardijza for him straight up but Jeff would have to waive his no-trade clause.

Until Next Time....