Recap of spring training game 4:
The Cubs beat the White Sox 13 to 0 and improves there record to 4 and 0 in spring training.
These players will make the team or might make the team:
Alfonso Soriano went 0 for 2 with a walk and 2 strikeouts.
Aaron Miles went 1 for 2 with a single and a walk.
Derek Lee went 1 for 3 with a single.
Micah Hoffpauir went 2 for 4 with 2 singles, a strikeout and a rbi.
Jake Fox went 0 for 2 with a strikeout.
Aramis Ramirez went 0 for 3 with a rbi.
Mike Fontenot went 1 for 2 with a single, walk and a strikeout.
Koyie Hill went 1 for 3 with a double and 2 rbi's.
Joey Gathright went 0 for 3 with a strikeout.
Pitchers:
Aaron Heilman pitch 2 innings and gave up 1 hit and 4 strikeouts.
Kevin Gregg pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit and 1 strikeout.
Neil Cotts pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit and 1 walk. He also got the win.
Ken Kadokura pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit, 1 walk and 1 strikeout.
Waddell pitch 1 inning and gave up nothing.
The MVP is going to a guy who probably won't even make the opening day roster and the guy is Brad Snyder. Snyder went 2 for 4 with a single, homerun ( was a grand slam), strikeout and 4 rbi's.
On other news:
According to Cubs.com, Carlos Marmol has changed his mind and will play in the WBC.
Accorsing to the Chicago Sun-Times, the Cubs signed infielder Corey Koskie to a minor league contract. Koskie will compete for a backup job at third. Koskie will be at camp after the WBC because he is going to play for Canada in the WBC. The last time Koskie played was in 2006 with the Brewers. He did not play the last 2 years because he had bad concussions that kept him out. The only think left, he has to pass a physical.
According to David Whitley of the Orlando Sentinel, Curt Schilling wants to pitch this year and would either play for the Tampa Bay Rays or Chicago Cubs. Schilling said he broke the curse in Boston and wants to break the curse for the Rays and Cubs. Schilling sais he will know his decision if he wants to play again in the upcoming weeks. He also sid money is not the matter and that would be good for the Cubs who have a short budget.
This is some notes by Bruce Miles:
This is after he talked to Jim Hendry. Miles said Hendry is excited about adding Corey Koskie. Hendry said he likes the way Aaron Miles and Mike Fontenot are doing at thrid base. Miles said the Cubs have not got a call directly from Curt Schilling but are open to signing Schilling.
I will keep you postet.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Spring Training Game 3
Recap of spring training game 3:
These are players that might make the team or will make the team:
Ryan Theriot went 2 for 4 with 2 singles.
Reed Johnson went 0 for 3 with a rbi.
Micah Hoffpauir went 2 for 3 with a single, homerun, walk and 3 rbi's.
Jake Fox went 1 for 1 with a double.
Mike Fontenot went 2 for 4 with a single, homerun, strikeout and 4 rbi's.
So Taguchi went 0 for 3.
Pitchers:
Ted Lilly (only start until he goes to the WBC) pitch 2 innings and gave up 2 hits and 2 strikeouts. He also got the win.
Jeff Stevens pitch 1 inning and struck out 2.
I'm giving the MVP to Mike Fontenot due to his homerun and 4 rbi's.
I will update on spring training number 2 after the game tomorrow.
These are players that might make the team or will make the team:
Ryan Theriot went 2 for 4 with 2 singles.
Reed Johnson went 0 for 3 with a rbi.
Micah Hoffpauir went 2 for 3 with a single, homerun, walk and 3 rbi's.
Jake Fox went 1 for 1 with a double.
Mike Fontenot went 2 for 4 with a single, homerun, strikeout and 4 rbi's.
So Taguchi went 0 for 3.
Pitchers:
Ted Lilly (only start until he goes to the WBC) pitch 2 innings and gave up 2 hits and 2 strikeouts. He also got the win.
Jeff Stevens pitch 1 inning and struck out 2.
I'm giving the MVP to Mike Fontenot due to his homerun and 4 rbi's.
I will update on spring training number 2 after the game tomorrow.
Spring Training Game 2
Recap of Game number 2 of the spring:
This players will make the team or might make the team:
Joey Gathright went 3 for 3 with 3 singles, 1rbi, 1 walk and 1 stolen base.
Aramis Ramirez went 0 for 1 with a walk.
So Taguchi went 0 for 1.
Milton Bradley went 0 for 0 with a walk. Bradley left the game with a minor quad injury.
Aaron Miles went 1 for 4 with a single, 1 rbi and a strikeout.
Micah Hoffpauir went 1 for 4 with a single, walk and a strikeout.
Jake Fox went 2 for 3 with a 3-run home run and a single, 3 rbi's and a walk.
Paul Bako went 0 for 3.
Chad Gaudin went 1 for 1 with a double.
Pitchers:
Sean Marshall pitch 2 innings and gave up 4 hits, 1 run and 1 strikeout.
Chad Gaudin pitch 2 innings and gave up 3 hits, 1 run, 1 walk and 1 strikeout. He got the win.
Carlos Marmol pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit and 1 run.
Mike Stanton pitch 1 inning and gave up 2 hits, 1 run, 1 walk and 2 strikeouts.
Kevin Hart- pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit and that's it.
Angel Guzman pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit and 1 strikeout. He got the save.
My Mvp going to 2 players and they are Joey Gathright (going 3 for 3) and Jake Fox (hit the 3 run homer).
In memories of long time Bull legends Norm Van Lier who died at the age of 61 and Johnny Red Kerr who died at the age of 76.
I will update you on game number 3 and other news when I here it.
This players will make the team or might make the team:
Joey Gathright went 3 for 3 with 3 singles, 1rbi, 1 walk and 1 stolen base.
Aramis Ramirez went 0 for 1 with a walk.
So Taguchi went 0 for 1.
Milton Bradley went 0 for 0 with a walk. Bradley left the game with a minor quad injury.
Aaron Miles went 1 for 4 with a single, 1 rbi and a strikeout.
Micah Hoffpauir went 1 for 4 with a single, walk and a strikeout.
Jake Fox went 2 for 3 with a 3-run home run and a single, 3 rbi's and a walk.
Paul Bako went 0 for 3.
Chad Gaudin went 1 for 1 with a double.
Pitchers:
Sean Marshall pitch 2 innings and gave up 4 hits, 1 run and 1 strikeout.
Chad Gaudin pitch 2 innings and gave up 3 hits, 1 run, 1 walk and 1 strikeout. He got the win.
Carlos Marmol pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit and 1 run.
Mike Stanton pitch 1 inning and gave up 2 hits, 1 run, 1 walk and 2 strikeouts.
Kevin Hart- pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit and that's it.
Angel Guzman pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit and 1 strikeout. He got the save.
My Mvp going to 2 players and they are Joey Gathright (going 3 for 3) and Jake Fox (hit the 3 run homer).
In memories of long time Bull legends Norm Van Lier who died at the age of 61 and Johnny Red Kerr who died at the age of 76.
I will update you on game number 3 and other news when I here it.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Recap of First Spring Game and Other Notes
Recap of the first cactus league game:
I will start off with saying the Cubs beat the Dodgers 5 to 3.
I will tell you the stats of people who will make the team or who might make the team for 2009:
Alfonso Soriano went 1 for 1 with a single and a walk.
Ryan Theriot went 2 for 3 with 2 singles.
Derek Lee went 0 for 1 with a walk and a strikeout.
Micah Hoffpauir went 1 for 4 with a home run and 4 rbi's (grand slam) and a strikeout.
Geovany Soto went 1 for 2 with a single and a strikeout.
Mike Fontenot went 0 for 3 with not getting on base.
Reed Johnson went 1 for 2 with a single and a strikeout.
Koyie Hill went 0 for 2 with a strikeout.
Those were the hitters and now the pitchers that are on the team or who might make the team.
Jeff Samardzjia pitch 2 innings and gave up 2 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks and 1 strikeout.
Mitch Atkins pitch 2 innings and gave up 3 hits, 1 run, 0 walks and 1 strikeout.
Ken Kadokura pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit, 0 runs or walks and 1 strikeout. He also got the win.
Waddell pitch 1 inning and gave up 0 hits, 0 runs, 1 walk and 2 strikeouts.
Jeff Stevens pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit, 0 runs, 1 walk and 1 strikeout. He also got the save.
The first Cactus league MVP, will go to Micah Hoffpauir due to his grand slam which was the winner.
On other news:
According to a press release, the cubs signed 20 players which include Marmol, Soto, and Theriot. Before players hit the arbitration phase, the team basically gets to decide there salaries.
According to David Kaplan, the Cubs are looking to bring back Juan Cruz to go in the bullpen. The only bad part is Cruz is a type A free agent and will have to give up a draft pick. The Cubs are working with the Diamondbacks, for a sign and trade and then the Cubs don't have to give up a draft pick.
I will have an update on game 2 of the spring and when I here other news.
I will start off with saying the Cubs beat the Dodgers 5 to 3.
I will tell you the stats of people who will make the team or who might make the team for 2009:
Alfonso Soriano went 1 for 1 with a single and a walk.
Ryan Theriot went 2 for 3 with 2 singles.
Derek Lee went 0 for 1 with a walk and a strikeout.
Micah Hoffpauir went 1 for 4 with a home run and 4 rbi's (grand slam) and a strikeout.
Geovany Soto went 1 for 2 with a single and a strikeout.
Mike Fontenot went 0 for 3 with not getting on base.
Reed Johnson went 1 for 2 with a single and a strikeout.
Koyie Hill went 0 for 2 with a strikeout.
Those were the hitters and now the pitchers that are on the team or who might make the team.
Jeff Samardzjia pitch 2 innings and gave up 2 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks and 1 strikeout.
Mitch Atkins pitch 2 innings and gave up 3 hits, 1 run, 0 walks and 1 strikeout.
Ken Kadokura pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit, 0 runs or walks and 1 strikeout. He also got the win.
Waddell pitch 1 inning and gave up 0 hits, 0 runs, 1 walk and 2 strikeouts.
Jeff Stevens pitch 1 inning and gave up 1 hit, 0 runs, 1 walk and 1 strikeout. He also got the save.
The first Cactus league MVP, will go to Micah Hoffpauir due to his grand slam which was the winner.
On other news:
According to a press release, the cubs signed 20 players which include Marmol, Soto, and Theriot. Before players hit the arbitration phase, the team basically gets to decide there salaries.
According to David Kaplan, the Cubs are looking to bring back Juan Cruz to go in the bullpen. The only bad part is Cruz is a type A free agent and will have to give up a draft pick. The Cubs are working with the Diamondbacks, for a sign and trade and then the Cubs don't have to give up a draft pick.
I will have an update on game 2 of the spring and when I here other news.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Spring Training and Cubs lose out on another option
Here is information on spring training:
There is no news on spring training because the Cubs are traveling and did not have a work out today.
Also don't forget about the first Cubs spring training, today at 2pm central on WGN radio (720).
Other news:
According to Buster Olney, Nomar Garciaparra, is going to decide from the A's, Phillies, or retire. I will think he will chose the Phillie's because they have a chance at the playoffs and in my opinion the A's predicted to rebuild last year after trading Dan Haren to the Diamondbacks, Joe Blanton to the Phillie's and Rich Harden to the Cubs. If they had pitching, I think they can compete with the Angels.
The Cubs will look at there younger players at camp and wait for people to be released from camp. Last year the Cubs got Reed Johnson before the season started and Jim Edmonds about 2 weeks in into the season after being released by the Padres.
I will keep you posted.
There is no news on spring training because the Cubs are traveling and did not have a work out today.
Also don't forget about the first Cubs spring training, today at 2pm central on WGN radio (720).
Other news:
According to Buster Olney, Nomar Garciaparra, is going to decide from the A's, Phillies, or retire. I will think he will chose the Phillie's because they have a chance at the playoffs and in my opinion the A's predicted to rebuild last year after trading Dan Haren to the Diamondbacks, Joe Blanton to the Phillie's and Rich Harden to the Cubs. If they had pitching, I think they can compete with the Angels.
The Cubs will look at there younger players at camp and wait for people to be released from camp. Last year the Cubs got Reed Johnson before the season started and Jim Edmonds about 2 weeks in into the season after being released by the Padres.
I will keep you posted.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Spring Training Day News
This is news from spring training:
According to a report on Cubs.com, Carlos Marmol has decided to not play for the Dominican Republic in the WBC. The coaches will be happy because they did not want Marmol to play in the WBC.
The Cubs players that won't be in camp due to the WBC are Ted Lilly, Geovany Soto and Kosuke Fukudome.
Rich Harden is 10 days behind the other pitchers. He will pitch in about a week and a half.
Ryan Dempster still has not pitch, due to a stiff neck.
The Cubs are planning on making a decision, on who to pick Calos Marmol or Kevin Gregg to be the closer. They are about 3 quarters of the way from choosing there closer.
On Wednesday, when the first Cactus game starts Mitch Atkins will pitch after Jeff Samardzjia does.
The Cubs will be on WGN radio tomorrow at 2 central.
I will keep you posted.
According to a report on Cubs.com, Carlos Marmol has decided to not play for the Dominican Republic in the WBC. The coaches will be happy because they did not want Marmol to play in the WBC.
The Cubs players that won't be in camp due to the WBC are Ted Lilly, Geovany Soto and Kosuke Fukudome.
Rich Harden is 10 days behind the other pitchers. He will pitch in about a week and a half.
Ryan Dempster still has not pitch, due to a stiff neck.
The Cubs are planning on making a decision, on who to pick Calos Marmol or Kevin Gregg to be the closer. They are about 3 quarters of the way from choosing there closer.
On Wednesday, when the first Cactus game starts Mitch Atkins will pitch after Jeff Samardzjia does.
The Cubs will be on WGN radio tomorrow at 2 central.
I will keep you posted.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Milestones that Cub Players can reach this year....
All these are milestones that are reachable in my opinion:
Alfonso Soriano: 66 at-bats from 5,000-30 home runs from 300-109 hits away from 1500.
Reed Johnson: 86 at-bats away from 2500-7 total bases from 1000.
Kosuke Fukudome: None that are reachable, probably because he just started in US a year ago.
Joey Gathright: 92 games away from 500.
Milton Bradley: 133 at-bats away from 3000-101 RBI's away from 500- 190 total bases from 1500-197 hits from 1000 (if stays healthy, he can get it).
Micah Hoffpauir: Hasn't been in the majors long enough to have a chance at any milestone.
Derek Lee: Has not milestones that are reachable this year.
Mike Fontenot: 21 at-bats from 500.
Aaron Miles: No milestone is reachable this year.
Ryan Theriot: 141 games from 500-236 at-bats from 1500-133 hits from 500-33 total bases from 500.
Aramis Ramirez: 43 at-bats from 5000-94 hits from 5000-22 total bases from 2500.
Geovany Soto: 4 RBI's from 100.
Koyie Hill: 4 games from 100.
Paul Bako: 18 hits from 500.
Carlos Zambrano: 4 wins from 100-118 innings from 1500.
Ryan Dempster: 75 innings from 1500.
Ted Lilly: 9 wins from 100-143 innings from 1500.
Rich Harden: No milestone he can reach this year.
Sean Marshall: No milestone he can reach this year.
Aaron Heilman: 50 innings from 500- 105 strikeouts from 500.
Kevin Gregg: No milestone he can reach this year.
Carlos Marmol: No milestone he can reach this year.
Jeff Samardzija: No milestone he can reach this year.
Neil Cotts: No milestone he can reach this year.
Chad Gaudin: 51 innings from 500.
Angel Guzman: 4 innings from 100.
Luis Vizcaino: 20 strikeouts from 500.
Kevin Hart: No milestone he can reach this year.
These are all players that are on the team or who might make the team.
Alfonso Soriano: 66 at-bats from 5,000-30 home runs from 300-109 hits away from 1500.
Reed Johnson: 86 at-bats away from 2500-7 total bases from 1000.
Kosuke Fukudome: None that are reachable, probably because he just started in US a year ago.
Joey Gathright: 92 games away from 500.
Milton Bradley: 133 at-bats away from 3000-101 RBI's away from 500- 190 total bases from 1500-197 hits from 1000 (if stays healthy, he can get it).
Micah Hoffpauir: Hasn't been in the majors long enough to have a chance at any milestone.
Derek Lee: Has not milestones that are reachable this year.
Mike Fontenot: 21 at-bats from 500.
Aaron Miles: No milestone is reachable this year.
Ryan Theriot: 141 games from 500-236 at-bats from 1500-133 hits from 500-33 total bases from 500.
Aramis Ramirez: 43 at-bats from 5000-94 hits from 5000-22 total bases from 2500.
Geovany Soto: 4 RBI's from 100.
Koyie Hill: 4 games from 100.
Paul Bako: 18 hits from 500.
Carlos Zambrano: 4 wins from 100-118 innings from 1500.
Ryan Dempster: 75 innings from 1500.
Ted Lilly: 9 wins from 100-143 innings from 1500.
Rich Harden: No milestone he can reach this year.
Sean Marshall: No milestone he can reach this year.
Aaron Heilman: 50 innings from 500- 105 strikeouts from 500.
Kevin Gregg: No milestone he can reach this year.
Carlos Marmol: No milestone he can reach this year.
Jeff Samardzija: No milestone he can reach this year.
Neil Cotts: No milestone he can reach this year.
Chad Gaudin: 51 innings from 500.
Angel Guzman: 4 innings from 100.
Luis Vizcaino: 20 strikeouts from 500.
Kevin Hart: No milestone he can reach this year.
These are all players that are on the team or who might make the team.
Spring Training Day 10 and Tidbits
Here is some news on spring training day 10:
Lou Pinella said that Ryan Dempster and Calos Zambrano will not pitch in the first week of exhibition games. Spring training added more games this year and he said there is plenty of time for them to pitch.
According to Chicago Tribune, Carlos Zambrano threw to minor leaguers with Larry Rothschild and Mark O'Neal watching closely at him.
Carlos Marmol still has not made his decision on whether to play for the Dominican Republic in the WBC. When that changes I will have it posted.
Lou Pinella said he is not going to cut anyone due to the length of spring training this year.
According to Lou, Marshall will pitch the second game and Lilly will pitch the third game in spring training.
According to Carrie Muskat, Kosuke Fukudome hit a grand slam in his first exhibition game for Japan.
Tidbits on the Cubs:
The Cubs minor league team will report to Fitch Park on March 12th and there exhibition games start on March 19th.
According to Cubs.com, the Cubs starters will throw 27-28 innings in the Cactus League, Same as the past few years.
A lot was made on Saturday about the height of the infield bu the median in Mesa, Ryan Theriot is 5'11, Aaron Miles and Mike Fontenot are both 5'8.
I will keep you posted.
Lou Pinella said that Ryan Dempster and Calos Zambrano will not pitch in the first week of exhibition games. Spring training added more games this year and he said there is plenty of time for them to pitch.
According to Chicago Tribune, Carlos Zambrano threw to minor leaguers with Larry Rothschild and Mark O'Neal watching closely at him.
Carlos Marmol still has not made his decision on whether to play for the Dominican Republic in the WBC. When that changes I will have it posted.
Lou Pinella said he is not going to cut anyone due to the length of spring training this year.
According to Lou, Marshall will pitch the second game and Lilly will pitch the third game in spring training.
According to Carrie Muskat, Kosuke Fukudome hit a grand slam in his first exhibition game for Japan.
Tidbits on the Cubs:
The Cubs minor league team will report to Fitch Park on March 12th and there exhibition games start on March 19th.
According to Cubs.com, the Cubs starters will throw 27-28 innings in the Cactus League, Same as the past few years.
A lot was made on Saturday about the height of the infield bu the median in Mesa, Ryan Theriot is 5'11, Aaron Miles and Mike Fontenot are both 5'8.
I will keep you posted.
Talkin Baseball, Spring Training, Ownership.....
I will start with a spring training update:
Calos Zambrano threw to live batting on Saturday mourning. He threw 25 pitches.
Alfonso Soriano work out in the offseason for the first time in his career, I guess Soriano wants to win the bid reward (World Series).
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Jeff Samardzija is going to start the first catus league game on Wednesday. After that is undetermined on who will pitch.
The Cubs are planning on stretching out guys such as Mitch Atkins, to see what he can do when he pitches and also to see what to do with Jeff Samardzija.
Carlos Marmol will now know by Sunday id he will pitch in the WBC.
Talkin Baseball: Lou Pinella joined Bruce Levine and Jonathan Hood on ESPN 1000.
Lou Pinella hinted that Kevin Gregg is going to be the closer. Pinella said the reason we brought Greg in, is to take Kerry Wood's spot as closer. I'm fine with that and now the Cubs can use Marlmol as the setup man.
Pinella said the only roles he has to still figure out are the bachup roles and the bullpen. He said the 2 main positions to figure out are CF and 2B.
Pinella said they hoped Kosuke Fukudome was in Mesa, instead of the WBC.
Len Kasper on XM radio:
Len Kasper said Pinella would leave Soriano in the #1 hole and when Soriano is not in the leadoff hole, he would use guys like Theriot, Fontenot, and Miles. Kasper thinks Kosuke is the best fit if he hits like he did last year in the beginning of the season.
As of right now Sean Marshall has the lead for the 5th starter job. Kasper also mentions that the Cubs might go with 6 starters, to rest Harden a little more.
Kasper says that Jeff Samardzija could be the long relief man in the bullpen. He also thinks that it would be good for him to start in Iowa.
Bruce Levine notes:
The Ricketts family will have to come up with 50% of there own money to finalize the deal for the Cubs.
Before the sale goes through, WGN and Comcast Sportsnet will have to rework there deals.
Levine has been told that the ownership will be finalized in late April, early March.
Levine does not think Reed Johnson is a everyday outfielder.
Levine is concerned about Carlos Marmols and the workload he has been through the past 2 seasons.
He also mentions the Cubs are still looking for a guy to back up Ramirez at 3B and Lee at 1B. He did not mention any names. The names the Cubs could be going after are Nomar Garciaparra and Valentine.
I will keep you posted.
Calos Zambrano threw to live batting on Saturday mourning. He threw 25 pitches.
Alfonso Soriano work out in the offseason for the first time in his career, I guess Soriano wants to win the bid reward (World Series).
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Jeff Samardzija is going to start the first catus league game on Wednesday. After that is undetermined on who will pitch.
The Cubs are planning on stretching out guys such as Mitch Atkins, to see what he can do when he pitches and also to see what to do with Jeff Samardzija.
Carlos Marmol will now know by Sunday id he will pitch in the WBC.
Talkin Baseball: Lou Pinella joined Bruce Levine and Jonathan Hood on ESPN 1000.
Lou Pinella hinted that Kevin Gregg is going to be the closer. Pinella said the reason we brought Greg in, is to take Kerry Wood's spot as closer. I'm fine with that and now the Cubs can use Marlmol as the setup man.
Pinella said the only roles he has to still figure out are the bachup roles and the bullpen. He said the 2 main positions to figure out are CF and 2B.
Pinella said they hoped Kosuke Fukudome was in Mesa, instead of the WBC.
Len Kasper on XM radio:
Len Kasper said Pinella would leave Soriano in the #1 hole and when Soriano is not in the leadoff hole, he would use guys like Theriot, Fontenot, and Miles. Kasper thinks Kosuke is the best fit if he hits like he did last year in the beginning of the season.
As of right now Sean Marshall has the lead for the 5th starter job. Kasper also mentions that the Cubs might go with 6 starters, to rest Harden a little more.
Kasper says that Jeff Samardzija could be the long relief man in the bullpen. He also thinks that it would be good for him to start in Iowa.
Bruce Levine notes:
The Ricketts family will have to come up with 50% of there own money to finalize the deal for the Cubs.
Before the sale goes through, WGN and Comcast Sportsnet will have to rework there deals.
Levine has been told that the ownership will be finalized in late April, early March.
Levine does not think Reed Johnson is a everyday outfielder.
Levine is concerned about Carlos Marmols and the workload he has been through the past 2 seasons.
He also mentions the Cubs are still looking for a guy to back up Ramirez at 3B and Lee at 1B. He did not mention any names. The names the Cubs could be going after are Nomar Garciaparra and Valentine.
I will keep you posted.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Spring Training Day 8 and other news
This is from spring training day 8:
According to Cubs.com, Carlos Marmol is reconsidering playing for the Dominican Republic in the WBC. For the past few weeks, Carlos Marmol was going to be the closer for the Dominican Republic. This was his quote from the report on Cubs.com. "I want to be the closer here. I need to work here. I'm not sure I'm going [to the World Baseball Classic]." Carlos Marlosl is going to talk to Felipe Alou the manager of the Dominican Republic and then make his decision. The decision should come by Saturday. The Rosters for the WBC have to be finalized by Tuesday.
Lou Pinella said when Aaron Miles play second and Kosuke Fukudome plays center, he likes this lineup, Soriano, Miles, Lee, Bradley, Ramirez, Fukudome, Soto, Theriot. So that lineup does not have a righty batting right behind another, until when Soto and Theriot come up.
Earlier this winter the Cubs sign LHP Bill White to a minor league deal, today the Cubs release him because he failed a physical. The Cubs added Brian Schlitter to the 40 man roster.
Alfons Soriano is telling everyone around him that he is going to start stealing more bases again. The Cubs just have to hope his legs stay healthy, so he will be at full strength to steal again.
12 pitchers threw off the mound this mourning in spring training phase 2. All the pitchers threw 25 pitches today.
The pitchers pitchers that stand out the most were Jeff Samardzjia, Ken Kadokura. Jeff could not fine home plate and almost smoke Ryan Theriot. Kadokura shattered a couple of bats with his moving fastball, although he got hit hard other times.
Jake Fox took grounders at third base again with coaches Alan Trammel and Ivan Dejesus (They hit him the grounders as watching him to).
The players that look the sharpest swinging today were the first baseman's Micah Hoffpauir and Derek Lee. They bath face live pitching.
This is news that does not relate to spring training:
According to MLB.com Ken Gurnick, the Dodgers sign Olando Hudson to a 1 year 3.4 million deal, with 4.6 million in incentives. So if the Cubs don't want to trade for a backup infielder, the most likely candidate is Nomar. The only bad part is the Phillie's are looking at him and if the Cubs and Phillie's offer him the same deal, he will chose the Phillie's (my opinion). I think when he played for Chicago his last time, I don't think he liked it. 2 other options for a backup infielder is Olando Cabrera and Joe Crede. It seems that both Crede and Cabrera want starting jobs somewhere and Cabrera could get a starting job in Oakland and Crede could get a starting job in San Francisco. Plus they would want a lot of money and Jim Hendry won't give them that kind of money as a backup.
According to Cubs.com, Carlos Marmol is reconsidering playing for the Dominican Republic in the WBC. For the past few weeks, Carlos Marmol was going to be the closer for the Dominican Republic. This was his quote from the report on Cubs.com. "I want to be the closer here. I need to work here. I'm not sure I'm going [to the World Baseball Classic]." Carlos Marlosl is going to talk to Felipe Alou the manager of the Dominican Republic and then make his decision. The decision should come by Saturday. The Rosters for the WBC have to be finalized by Tuesday.
Lou Pinella said when Aaron Miles play second and Kosuke Fukudome plays center, he likes this lineup, Soriano, Miles, Lee, Bradley, Ramirez, Fukudome, Soto, Theriot. So that lineup does not have a righty batting right behind another, until when Soto and Theriot come up.
Earlier this winter the Cubs sign LHP Bill White to a minor league deal, today the Cubs release him because he failed a physical. The Cubs added Brian Schlitter to the 40 man roster.
Alfons Soriano is telling everyone around him that he is going to start stealing more bases again. The Cubs just have to hope his legs stay healthy, so he will be at full strength to steal again.
12 pitchers threw off the mound this mourning in spring training phase 2. All the pitchers threw 25 pitches today.
The pitchers pitchers that stand out the most were Jeff Samardzjia, Ken Kadokura. Jeff could not fine home plate and almost smoke Ryan Theriot. Kadokura shattered a couple of bats with his moving fastball, although he got hit hard other times.
Jake Fox took grounders at third base again with coaches Alan Trammel and Ivan Dejesus (They hit him the grounders as watching him to).
The players that look the sharpest swinging today were the first baseman's Micah Hoffpauir and Derek Lee. They bath face live pitching.
This is news that does not relate to spring training:
According to MLB.com Ken Gurnick, the Dodgers sign Olando Hudson to a 1 year 3.4 million deal, with 4.6 million in incentives. So if the Cubs don't want to trade for a backup infielder, the most likely candidate is Nomar. The only bad part is the Phillie's are looking at him and if the Cubs and Phillie's offer him the same deal, he will chose the Phillie's (my opinion). I think when he played for Chicago his last time, I don't think he liked it. 2 other options for a backup infielder is Olando Cabrera and Joe Crede. It seems that both Crede and Cabrera want starting jobs somewhere and Cabrera could get a starting job in Oakland and Crede could get a starting job in San Francisco. Plus they would want a lot of money and Jim Hendry won't give them that kind of money as a backup.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Spring Training Day 7 and other notes
Spring Training Day 7:
Rick Sutcliffe will be a guest instructor until the WBC starts.
Lou says Alfonso Soriano is the leadoff man but will try people in the number 1 hole in spring training.
The Cubs will look for a backup infielder in spring training on there team or another team (Nomar or Hudson). Hoffpauir will likely not make the team if the Cubs get a backup infielder. Hoffpauir can only play first and a corner outfielder (the Cubs have 5 outfielders). I think Gathright will make the team as a backup outfielder because he can play all 3 outfields positions and has good speed to come in as a pinch runner.
According to the Chicago Tribune, Alfonso Soriano said he would move to the second base if we land Manny Ramirez. I thin there is about 0% to land him because of his price. I think if his price is around 10-15 million 1 year with a club option for a second year, I will then give it a 45%.
Lou Pineela will like to carry 14 position players amd 11 pitchers. He will be thinking about that in spring training. That means the Cubs will have 6 bench players.
Lou Pinella has not yet talk to the Rickett family but can't wait.
On other news:
According to Phil Rogers of the Chicago Tribune, Jim Hendry had calls regarding a trade for Kosuke Fukudome. If the Cubs were going to trade Kosuke they will have to take on a bad contract like Kosuke's. One of the teams that were mention was the Seattle Mariners, the would of probably traded Washburn, Bedard or Johjima. If I was Jim Hendry I would of traded Kosuke for Bedard because Bedard can be a good pitcher if healthy and is also a lefty.; The the Cubs can get Marshall in the pen as the second lefty because as right now the Cubs only have 1 lefty in the pen and it is Cotts. Cotts will be the Cubs only lefty in the pen if Marshall goes to the 5th spot.
According to Ken Rosenthal, the teams that are still interested in Olando Hudson are the Dodgers (leading for Hudson), Royals (Hudson wants to play for them), and an unknown team (could be the Cubs because they were mention to Hudson). If Hudson goes to the Dodgers, it will probably be after they sign Manny Ramirez.
This is another note not related to the Cubs or baseball:
The Bulls have traded Larry Hughes to the Knicks for C Jerome James, PF Tim Thomas and SF Anthomy Roberson.
They also traded Thabo Seplosha to the Thunder for a first round pick.
I will keep you posted on the Cubs rumors.
Rick Sutcliffe will be a guest instructor until the WBC starts.
Lou says Alfonso Soriano is the leadoff man but will try people in the number 1 hole in spring training.
The Cubs will look for a backup infielder in spring training on there team or another team (Nomar or Hudson). Hoffpauir will likely not make the team if the Cubs get a backup infielder. Hoffpauir can only play first and a corner outfielder (the Cubs have 5 outfielders). I think Gathright will make the team as a backup outfielder because he can play all 3 outfields positions and has good speed to come in as a pinch runner.
According to the Chicago Tribune, Alfonso Soriano said he would move to the second base if we land Manny Ramirez. I thin there is about 0% to land him because of his price. I think if his price is around 10-15 million 1 year with a club option for a second year, I will then give it a 45%.
Lou Pineela will like to carry 14 position players amd 11 pitchers. He will be thinking about that in spring training. That means the Cubs will have 6 bench players.
Lou Pinella has not yet talk to the Rickett family but can't wait.
On other news:
According to Phil Rogers of the Chicago Tribune, Jim Hendry had calls regarding a trade for Kosuke Fukudome. If the Cubs were going to trade Kosuke they will have to take on a bad contract like Kosuke's. One of the teams that were mention was the Seattle Mariners, the would of probably traded Washburn, Bedard or Johjima. If I was Jim Hendry I would of traded Kosuke for Bedard because Bedard can be a good pitcher if healthy and is also a lefty.; The the Cubs can get Marshall in the pen as the second lefty because as right now the Cubs only have 1 lefty in the pen and it is Cotts. Cotts will be the Cubs only lefty in the pen if Marshall goes to the 5th spot.
According to Ken Rosenthal, the teams that are still interested in Olando Hudson are the Dodgers (leading for Hudson), Royals (Hudson wants to play for them), and an unknown team (could be the Cubs because they were mention to Hudson). If Hudson goes to the Dodgers, it will probably be after they sign Manny Ramirez.
This is another note not related to the Cubs or baseball:
The Bulls have traded Larry Hughes to the Knicks for C Jerome James, PF Tim Thomas and SF Anthomy Roberson.
They also traded Thabo Seplosha to the Thunder for a first round pick.
I will keep you posted on the Cubs rumors.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Spring Training Day 6 and other news
Here is some news from spring training:
Rich Harden threw off the mound today for his second time and everything went right well again.
Derek Lee's daughter Jada is recovering from her vision problem. That is great news because I think the past few years Lee was thinking more of his daughter then baseball. Now maybe he can focused better.
Derek Lee is trying to keep his mind off the long ball and just play small ball. If Lee does that, he can get on base for Bradley, Ramirez, Soto and maybe Soriano.
Jake Fox is trying to make the team as a backup for third base.
According to Gordon Wittnymer, Aramis Ramirez ans Alfonso Soriano are ready for opening day.
Other News: The Cubs are once again looking at Mark Teahen because he might be traded or release by the Kansas City Royals. The Royals might have to cut budget to sign Olando Hudson. Hudson said yesterday that he wants to play for the Royals. The only way he will play for the Royals if they cut Teahen and another player and the fans in Kansas City will be very happy.
Mark Teahen can play RF, LF, 1B, 2B, ans 3B. Teahen can be a good utility guy, to give there infielders a break and to come off the bench.
This next news is not baseball or Cubs related. It is Bulls related.
The Bulls traded SF Andres Nocioni, PF Drew Gooden, C Michael Ruffin and PF Cedric Simmons to the Kings for C Brad Miller and SF John Salmons.
After the Bulls made the trade, the Kings then traded Michael Ruffin to the Trailblazers.
This year Brad Miller played in 43 games, 31 MPG, 11 PPG, 8 RPG, and 3 APG.
This year John Salmons played in 53 games , 37 MPG, 18 PPG, 4 RPG and 4 APG.
I thought that is something I will pass by.
I will always keep you posted on Cubs before anything else.
Rich Harden threw off the mound today for his second time and everything went right well again.
Derek Lee's daughter Jada is recovering from her vision problem. That is great news because I think the past few years Lee was thinking more of his daughter then baseball. Now maybe he can focused better.
Derek Lee is trying to keep his mind off the long ball and just play small ball. If Lee does that, he can get on base for Bradley, Ramirez, Soto and maybe Soriano.
Jake Fox is trying to make the team as a backup for third base.
According to Gordon Wittnymer, Aramis Ramirez ans Alfonso Soriano are ready for opening day.
Other News: The Cubs are once again looking at Mark Teahen because he might be traded or release by the Kansas City Royals. The Royals might have to cut budget to sign Olando Hudson. Hudson said yesterday that he wants to play for the Royals. The only way he will play for the Royals if they cut Teahen and another player and the fans in Kansas City will be very happy.
Mark Teahen can play RF, LF, 1B, 2B, ans 3B. Teahen can be a good utility guy, to give there infielders a break and to come off the bench.
This next news is not baseball or Cubs related. It is Bulls related.
The Bulls traded SF Andres Nocioni, PF Drew Gooden, C Michael Ruffin and PF Cedric Simmons to the Kings for C Brad Miller and SF John Salmons.
After the Bulls made the trade, the Kings then traded Michael Ruffin to the Trailblazers.
This year Brad Miller played in 43 games, 31 MPG, 11 PPG, 8 RPG, and 3 APG.
This year John Salmons played in 53 games , 37 MPG, 18 PPG, 4 RPG and 4 APG.
I thought that is something I will pass by.
I will always keep you posted on Cubs before anything else.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Sring Training Day 4 and other News
Here is some news from Spring Training:
According to Cubs.com Alfonso Soriano does not care if he bats lower in the lineup.
Derek Lee does not care if he bats 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th or even 6th in the lineup, He says its to early to talk about lineups.
The players playing in the WBC are Ted Lilly (United States), Kosuke Fukudome (Japan), Carlos Marmol (Dominican Republic), and Geovany Soto (Puerto Rico).
Luis Vizcaino finally reported to spring training. Vizcaino had the vista problems.
All of the players had reported to camp accept the ones that went to the WBC.
Note: The Cubs will televise on WGN 63 times and CSN 80 times in the year.
According to the Chicago Tribune Micah Hoffpauir will have the 25th spot on the team as the 6th outfielder and to back up Derek Lee at first base. Pinella said it is his job to lose.
According to Bruce Miles, Alfonso Soriano is in great shape.
Micah Atkins is another guy who will compete for the 5th spot along with Jeff S, Gaudin, Marshall, and Heilman. Pinellia said earlier Marshall is in the lead to be the 5th starter.
Jeff Stevens came out today throwing nasty curveballs and look good according to Gordon Wittnymer. Who knows he might compete for the 5th starter job.
The Cubs have invited president President Barack O'bama to spring traing. To bad Barack O'bama is a White Sox fan.
Cory Provus is leading the Cubs and to be the radio announcer for the Brewers (what a trader).
On other news, Olando Hudson:
According to Jon Heyman the Dodgers are very much interested in Olando Hudson and GM Ned Coletti said they could afford bothe Hudson and Manny.
According to Ken Rosenthal, Olando Hudson would like to play for the Royals. The Royals don't have the money to spend on Hudson, they will have to release Mark Teahen and that is unlikely,
If the Royals do release Teahen, the Cubs will be very interested in him. That is according to Hot Stove Cubbies.
The Cubs number 1 priority is to try to get Hudson because he can bat leadoff in which the Cubs really need. The Cubs want to sign him without giving up a draft pick.
The Cubs might do what the Diamondbacks are doing with Juan Cruz, a sign and trade.
Jon Heyman also mentions that the White Sox are not pursuing Hudson no more. The Teams left in the pursuit are the Dodgers, Cubs and Royals.
I will keep you posted when I here something.
According to Cubs.com Alfonso Soriano does not care if he bats lower in the lineup.
Derek Lee does not care if he bats 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th or even 6th in the lineup, He says its to early to talk about lineups.
The players playing in the WBC are Ted Lilly (United States), Kosuke Fukudome (Japan), Carlos Marmol (Dominican Republic), and Geovany Soto (Puerto Rico).
Luis Vizcaino finally reported to spring training. Vizcaino had the vista problems.
All of the players had reported to camp accept the ones that went to the WBC.
Note: The Cubs will televise on WGN 63 times and CSN 80 times in the year.
According to the Chicago Tribune Micah Hoffpauir will have the 25th spot on the team as the 6th outfielder and to back up Derek Lee at first base. Pinella said it is his job to lose.
According to Bruce Miles, Alfonso Soriano is in great shape.
Micah Atkins is another guy who will compete for the 5th spot along with Jeff S, Gaudin, Marshall, and Heilman. Pinellia said earlier Marshall is in the lead to be the 5th starter.
Jeff Stevens came out today throwing nasty curveballs and look good according to Gordon Wittnymer. Who knows he might compete for the 5th starter job.
The Cubs have invited president President Barack O'bama to spring traing. To bad Barack O'bama is a White Sox fan.
Cory Provus is leading the Cubs and to be the radio announcer for the Brewers (what a trader).
On other news, Olando Hudson:
According to Jon Heyman the Dodgers are very much interested in Olando Hudson and GM Ned Coletti said they could afford bothe Hudson and Manny.
According to Ken Rosenthal, Olando Hudson would like to play for the Royals. The Royals don't have the money to spend on Hudson, they will have to release Mark Teahen and that is unlikely,
If the Royals do release Teahen, the Cubs will be very interested in him. That is according to Hot Stove Cubbies.
The Cubs number 1 priority is to try to get Hudson because he can bat leadoff in which the Cubs really need. The Cubs want to sign him without giving up a draft pick.
The Cubs might do what the Diamondbacks are doing with Juan Cruz, a sign and trade.
Jon Heyman also mentions that the White Sox are not pursuing Hudson no more. The Teams left in the pursuit are the Dodgers, Cubs and Royals.
I will keep you posted when I here something.
Spring Training and Olando Hudson
Spring Training News:
Carlos Zambrano has shaved his mustache.
The only positions players that haven't shown yep yet are Aramis Ramirez, Derek Lee, and Alfonso Soriano.
Luis Vizcaino is still not at Mesa. He is the only pitcher not to be there.
Lou Pinella said yesterday that he is going to consider moving Alfonso Soriano down in the lineup. Pinella said that he could put Aaron Miles, Mike Fontenot, Ryan Theriot and Kosuke Fukudome.
Mike Fontenot, Jake Fox and Aaron Miles all took grounders at third yesterday, One of them will have to bet the backup at third for Aramis Ramirez.
On other news:
Olando Hudson said he is going to make a decision on where to play in the next coming days, The teams that are interested are the White Sox, Dodgers, Cubs and Royals as a long shot. The Nationals have drop out of the race. Who knows those 4 teams could of offered him a deal already and he is just waiting, Before the offseason started Hudson was looking for 10 million a year and now might have to settle for 3-5 million.
I will keep you updated on spring training and rumors when I here them.
Carlos Zambrano has shaved his mustache.
The only positions players that haven't shown yep yet are Aramis Ramirez, Derek Lee, and Alfonso Soriano.
Luis Vizcaino is still not at Mesa. He is the only pitcher not to be there.
Lou Pinella said yesterday that he is going to consider moving Alfonso Soriano down in the lineup. Pinella said that he could put Aaron Miles, Mike Fontenot, Ryan Theriot and Kosuke Fukudome.
Mike Fontenot, Jake Fox and Aaron Miles all took grounders at third yesterday, One of them will have to bet the backup at third for Aramis Ramirez.
On other news:
Olando Hudson said he is going to make a decision on where to play in the next coming days, The teams that are interested are the White Sox, Dodgers, Cubs and Royals as a long shot. The Nationals have drop out of the race. Who knows those 4 teams could of offered him a deal already and he is just waiting, Before the offseason started Hudson was looking for 10 million a year and now might have to settle for 3-5 million.
I will keep you updated on spring training and rumors when I here them.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Spring Training update day 3 and catching spot...
Spring Training Day 3:
The only pitcher not report to camp is Luis Vizcaino, he is having Vista problems.
Rich Harden threw off the mound for the first time and he said he felt good as ever. Harden said he felt no pain in his arm. That is awesome news because when he is healthy, Harden is a dominant pitcher.
According to Cubs.com, Sean Marshall is the favor to win the 5th spot in the rotation.
Rich Harden said he wants to make at least 3o starts this season.
According to the Chicago Sun Times, Mike Stanton could join Neal Cotts as another lefty in the bullpen and let Marshall be the 5th starter.
Keith Law of ESPN.com is concerned about Carlos Zambrano and put the over/under on wins under 14. Bruce Levine reported earlier that Zambrano is going to have a breakout year. So we just have to see what happens when the season starts.
Reed Johnson has drop 14 pounds this offseason.
Milton Bradley is at camp early and is ready to go out and swing the bat. Other hitters that are at camp so far are So Taguchi, Mike Fontenot, Ryan Theriot, Reed Johnson, and Darwin Barney.
The Hitters don't have to meet until Tuesday at Mesa and the work out on Wednesday. A week before the Cubs start the Cactus League against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
On another note: Paul Bako and Koyie Hill will compete for the catching job. A lot of people thought when the Cubs signed Paul Bako, it was his job no matter what happens. If Paul Bako does not win the starting job to Koyie Hill, he will probably be release because he is to old to play in the minors.
I will keep you updated.
The only pitcher not report to camp is Luis Vizcaino, he is having Vista problems.
Rich Harden threw off the mound for the first time and he said he felt good as ever. Harden said he felt no pain in his arm. That is awesome news because when he is healthy, Harden is a dominant pitcher.
According to Cubs.com, Sean Marshall is the favor to win the 5th spot in the rotation.
Rich Harden said he wants to make at least 3o starts this season.
According to the Chicago Sun Times, Mike Stanton could join Neal Cotts as another lefty in the bullpen and let Marshall be the 5th starter.
Keith Law of ESPN.com is concerned about Carlos Zambrano and put the over/under on wins under 14. Bruce Levine reported earlier that Zambrano is going to have a breakout year. So we just have to see what happens when the season starts.
Reed Johnson has drop 14 pounds this offseason.
Milton Bradley is at camp early and is ready to go out and swing the bat. Other hitters that are at camp so far are So Taguchi, Mike Fontenot, Ryan Theriot, Reed Johnson, and Darwin Barney.
The Hitters don't have to meet until Tuesday at Mesa and the work out on Wednesday. A week before the Cubs start the Cactus League against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
On another note: Paul Bako and Koyie Hill will compete for the catching job. A lot of people thought when the Cubs signed Paul Bako, it was his job no matter what happens. If Paul Bako does not win the starting job to Koyie Hill, he will probably be release because he is to old to play in the minors.
I will keep you updated.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Talkin Baeball and update on Spring Trainig
First on will tell you some notes on Talkin Baseball:
The only Cubs that are participating in the WBC are Carlos Marmol, Kosuke Fukudome, and Geovany Soto. Notes from all three of them:
Carlos Marmol will be the closer for the Dominican league. Jim Hendry doesn't want Marmol to go because he doesn't want him to throw to many pitches and get worn down or get injured. Carlos Marmol wants to play in the WBC. Carlos Marlol means a lot to the Cubs.
Kosuke Fukudome is going to be the outfielder for Japan. The coaching staff also doesn't want him to play because there afraid of him getting back to Japan rules and how they play. Lou Pinella and Jim Hendry did say yesterday it might be good to just get his swing back.
Geovany Soto will play for Puerto Rico and the coaching staff does not have much concern with him.
Bruce Levine also notes that he likes the signing of Paul Bako to be the starting catcher in spring training until Geovany Soto comes back from the WBC.
The Cubs that will not participate in the WBC are Carlos Zambrano, Aramis Ramirez, Angel Guzman, Alfonso Soriano, Derek Lee, Ted Lilly and Rich Harden.
On Talkin Basball, Jim Hendry was there and this is what he said:
He like the addition of Aaron Miles and likes that he is finally going to give Mike Fontenot a chance at second base. Last year Mike Fontenot was the best clutch player the Cubs had batting over 300.
Aldo Jim Hendry like what commissioner Bud Selig with letting the ball players play internationally in the WBC.
Finally Jim Hendry is going to go into the season to prove everybody wrong about Milton Bradley and Rich Harden. Hendry said that he expects at least 20 starts for Harden and 130 games for Bradley.
Now update on spring training day 2:
Rich Harden is going to be limited in spring training to due to his arm. Harden said he feels better than ever.
Lou Pinella said he is going to rest his players more often so there not worn out in the offseason. He likes the all the options he has in the bullpen and coming off the bench.
Carlos Zambrano went into camp with a mustache. Zambrano said he wants to look more intimidating.
Zambrano is waiting on eye surgery because his eye is infected and the doctors game him eye drops to put in.
All will keep you posted on spring training and the rumors when I here them.
The only Cubs that are participating in the WBC are Carlos Marmol, Kosuke Fukudome, and Geovany Soto. Notes from all three of them:
Carlos Marmol will be the closer for the Dominican league. Jim Hendry doesn't want Marmol to go because he doesn't want him to throw to many pitches and get worn down or get injured. Carlos Marmol wants to play in the WBC. Carlos Marlol means a lot to the Cubs.
Kosuke Fukudome is going to be the outfielder for Japan. The coaching staff also doesn't want him to play because there afraid of him getting back to Japan rules and how they play. Lou Pinella and Jim Hendry did say yesterday it might be good to just get his swing back.
Geovany Soto will play for Puerto Rico and the coaching staff does not have much concern with him.
Bruce Levine also notes that he likes the signing of Paul Bako to be the starting catcher in spring training until Geovany Soto comes back from the WBC.
The Cubs that will not participate in the WBC are Carlos Zambrano, Aramis Ramirez, Angel Guzman, Alfonso Soriano, Derek Lee, Ted Lilly and Rich Harden.
On Talkin Basball, Jim Hendry was there and this is what he said:
He like the addition of Aaron Miles and likes that he is finally going to give Mike Fontenot a chance at second base. Last year Mike Fontenot was the best clutch player the Cubs had batting over 300.
Aldo Jim Hendry like what commissioner Bud Selig with letting the ball players play internationally in the WBC.
Finally Jim Hendry is going to go into the season to prove everybody wrong about Milton Bradley and Rich Harden. Hendry said that he expects at least 20 starts for Harden and 130 games for Bradley.
Now update on spring training day 2:
Rich Harden is going to be limited in spring training to due to his arm. Harden said he feels better than ever.
Lou Pinella said he is going to rest his players more often so there not worn out in the offseason. He likes the all the options he has in the bullpen and coming off the bench.
Carlos Zambrano went into camp with a mustache. Zambrano said he wants to look more intimidating.
Zambrano is waiting on eye surgery because his eye is infected and the doctors game him eye drops to put in.
All will keep you posted on spring training and the rumors when I here them.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Spring Training News
This is some stuff I found out at Spring Training:
P Carlos Zambrano will have LASIK eye surgery at the end of spring training.
P Angel Guzman will not pitch in the WBC.
Kosuke Fukudome will not be at spring training until the last two weeks of the spring because he he is playing in the WBC.
Nine Cubs got a head start and went to Mesa yeserday. The Cubs that went are: P Jeff Samadzija, P Kevin Gregg, P Kevin Hart, P Rich Harden, C Geovany Soto, C Koyie Hill, P Chad Fox, P Randy Wells, and C Wellington Castilla.
As of right now Alfonso Soriano is going to be the leadoff man on opening day. I don't like that beacuse he is older and we will score way more runs if he bats down in the order.
I will keep you posted on news from spring training and rumors when I come around with them.
P Carlos Zambrano will have LASIK eye surgery at the end of spring training.
P Angel Guzman will not pitch in the WBC.
Kosuke Fukudome will not be at spring training until the last two weeks of the spring because he he is playing in the WBC.
Nine Cubs got a head start and went to Mesa yeserday. The Cubs that went are: P Jeff Samadzija, P Kevin Gregg, P Kevin Hart, P Rich Harden, C Geovany Soto, C Koyie Hill, P Chad Fox, P Randy Wells, and C Wellington Castilla.
As of right now Alfonso Soriano is going to be the leadoff man on opening day. I don't like that beacuse he is older and we will score way more runs if he bats down in the order.
I will keep you posted on news from spring training and rumors when I come around with them.
News
Pitchers and Catchers meet today at 12 central.
Cubs writer Carrie Muskat will bring the news and updates from Mesa in spring training.
Cubs writer Carrie Muskat will bring the news and updates from Mesa in spring training.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Peavy Talks
This is comments of What Peavy said abour being a Padre.
MLB.com's Corey Brock passes along comments Jake Peavy made on XX Sports Radio in San Diego. Peavy said he's "dang glad" to be a Padre after an off season of trade talks. Peavy said he understands that business decisions led to a "crazy winter."
Brock adds that GM Kevin Towers "has not had active discussions with any team regarding Peavy" since the Winter Meetings.
Why would Peavy come out and say that, this off season he said he was mad About being a Padre and wanted to play for the Chicago Cubs. On the last night at the winter meetings he was singing Go Cubs Go at the bar.
MLB.com's Corey Brock passes along comments Jake Peavy made on XX Sports Radio in San Diego. Peavy said he's "dang glad" to be a Padre after an off season of trade talks. Peavy said he understands that business decisions led to a "crazy winter."
Brock adds that GM Kevin Towers "has not had active discussions with any team regarding Peavy" since the Winter Meetings.
Why would Peavy come out and say that, this off season he said he was mad About being a Padre and wanted to play for the Chicago Cubs. On the last night at the winter meetings he was singing Go Cubs Go at the bar.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
PECOTA Predictions
PECOTA has come out with their yearly predictions for MLB. They project 96 wins for the Cubs, who they think will have the best record in the National League. Last year the projected 91 wins for the Chicago Cubs. Here's the rest of the NL Central behind the 96-66 Cubs:
Brewers 83-79
Cardinals 80-82
Reds 79-83
Astros 67-95
Pirates 65-97
By the way, PECOTA predicts that the White Sox will finish last in the AL Central with a 74-88 record!
Cubs pitching projections:
Carlos Zambrano: 12-9 with a 4.12 ERA.
Ryan Dempster: 10-9 with a 4.10 ERA.
Ted Lilly: 11-9 with a 4.26 ERA.
Rich Harden: 11-5 with a 3.05.
Aaron Heilman: 2-2 with 2 saves and 10 starts, 4.52 ERA
Sean Marshall: 7-6 with 2 saves in 22 starts, 4.29 ERA .
I will kee you posted on the rumors.
Brewers 83-79
Cardinals 80-82
Reds 79-83
Astros 67-95
Pirates 65-97
By the way, PECOTA predicts that the White Sox will finish last in the AL Central with a 74-88 record!
Cubs pitching projections:
Carlos Zambrano: 12-9 with a 4.12 ERA.
Ryan Dempster: 10-9 with a 4.10 ERA.
Ted Lilly: 11-9 with a 4.26 ERA.
Rich Harden: 11-5 with a 3.05.
Aaron Heilman: 2-2 with 2 saves and 10 starts, 4.52 ERA
Sean Marshall: 7-6 with 2 saves in 22 starts, 4.29 ERA .
I will kee you posted on the rumors.
3 Team Trade
Lets see if this can work:
Cubs get Peavy and Figgins
Padres get Marshall Guzman Castilla Hart Stevens
Angels get Fontenot Ryan Flaherty
Figgins can play second then Aaroon Miles can backup third shortstop and second
Starting lineup then:
Figgins
Lee
Bradley
Ramirez
Soriano
Soto
Kosuke/Johnson
Therioty
Pitcher
Starting Rotation
Peavy
Zambrano
Dempster
Lilly
Harden (Rests his arm more)
There was no rumors but I will keep you posted.
Cubs get Peavy and Figgins
Padres get Marshall Guzman Castilla Hart Stevens
Angels get Fontenot Ryan Flaherty
Figgins can play second then Aaroon Miles can backup third shortstop and second
Starting lineup then:
Figgins
Lee
Bradley
Ramirez
Soriano
Soto
Kosuke/Johnson
Therioty
Pitcher
Starting Rotation
Peavy
Zambrano
Dempster
Lilly
Harden (Rests his arm more)
There was no rumors but I will keep you posted.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Cubs Quick Hits
Here is some quick news on the Cubs:
Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago Suntimes said that the Cubs will go into spring training looking for a veteran starting pitching or Jake Peavy and a leadoff hitter, like Chone Figgins or Brian Roberts. (I think if the Cubs get Peavy they will have to settle for Figgins and I think if they really want both they will be able to get both.)
Also Gordon Wittenyer of the Chicago Suntimes said the deal for the Cubs is nearly complete. That is awesome news and this is where you will here more rumors on the Cubs.
I will keep you posted.
Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago Suntimes said that the Cubs will go into spring training looking for a veteran starting pitching or Jake Peavy and a leadoff hitter, like Chone Figgins or Brian Roberts. (I think if the Cubs get Peavy they will have to settle for Figgins and I think if they really want both they will be able to get both.)
Also Gordon Wittenyer of the Chicago Suntimes said the deal for the Cubs is nearly complete. That is awesome news and this is where you will here more rumors on the Cubs.
I will keep you posted.
Quick News
This is news around the NL Central and the Cubs lost out on another player.
According to Ken Rosenthal, the Giants have sign IF Rich Aurillia to a minor league deal. Rosenthal believes that Aurillia pick the the Giants over the Cubs and Phillies which also offer him a minor league deal.
According to Haudricourt, the Brewers have sign P Branden Looper.
According to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick, the Astros are not pursuing OF Adam Dunn and OF Bobby Abreu.
According to Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Dispatch, the Cardinals have release IF Adam Kennedy.
That is some news, I should thought I will pass by. I will keep you updated on the Cubs rumors.
According to Ken Rosenthal, the Giants have sign IF Rich Aurillia to a minor league deal. Rosenthal believes that Aurillia pick the the Giants over the Cubs and Phillies which also offer him a minor league deal.
According to Haudricourt, the Brewers have sign P Branden Looper.
According to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick, the Astros are not pursuing OF Adam Dunn and OF Bobby Abreu.
According to Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Dispatch, the Cardinals have release IF Adam Kennedy.
That is some news, I should thought I will pass by. I will keep you updated on the Cubs rumors.
Olando Hudson...
According to Nick Cafardo, the Cubs are 1 of 3 teams to be interested in in 2B Orlando Hudson. The other teams that are interested in him are the Dodgers ans White Sox. Pending the sale, is the holdup for Jim Hendry to offer him a 1 or 2 year contract.
Orlando Hudson batted 305 with 8 home runs and 41 RBIs in 107 games last year, He also posted a 367 OBP and a 450 SLG. He also had 124 hits, 40 walks and 62 strikeouts. The one good thing about Hudson is , he is a lead off hitter in which the Cubs definitely need. That will allow the Cubs to move Soriano down in the lineup.
I will keep you posted.
Orlando Hudson batted 305 with 8 home runs and 41 RBIs in 107 games last year, He also posted a 367 OBP and a 450 SLG. He also had 124 hits, 40 walks and 62 strikeouts. The one good thing about Hudson is , he is a lead off hitter in which the Cubs definitely need. That will allow the Cubs to move Soriano down in the lineup.
I will keep you posted.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Counting the Days...
Spring training is almost here, so Cubbie fans hold your breath.
Pitcher and Catchers meet in 5 days
Sprig Training starts in 18 days
Opening Day is in 58 days
Note: On talking baseball, today Len Kasper said that they will have 9 Cub games from Spring Training on TV. Bruce Levine was off this weekend, but will be there next week.
Note: The Giants have offer Rich Aurillia a minor league deal, ,n which he is considering. (I think if the Cubs offer him a 1 year deal worth 1 million, I think he will accept it).
When I see a rumor, I will post it.
Pitcher and Catchers meet in 5 days
Sprig Training starts in 18 days
Opening Day is in 58 days
Note: On talking baseball, today Len Kasper said that they will have 9 Cub games from Spring Training on TV. Bruce Levine was off this weekend, but will be there next week.
Note: The Giants have offer Rich Aurillia a minor league deal, ,n which he is considering. (I think if the Cubs offer him a 1 year deal worth 1 million, I think he will accept it).
When I see a rumor, I will post it.
Lineups
These Lineups are from different people:
Buster Olney has 2 different lineups for Lou Pinella:
Lineup 1
1 Mike Fontenot
2 Derek Lee
3 Milton Bradley
4 Aramis Ramirez
5 Kosuke Fukudome
6 Alfonso Soriano
7 Geovany Soto
8 Ryan Theriot
Lineup 2
1 Ryan Theriot
2 Alfonso Soriano
3 Milton Bradley
4 Aramis Ramirez
5 Derek lee
6 Kosuke Fukudome
7 Geovany Soto
8 Mike Fontenot
This is the lineup and starting 5 from Sporting news:
Lineup
1 Alfonso Soriano
2 Aaron Miles
3 Derek Lee
4 Milton Bradley
5 Aramis Ramirez
6 Geovany Soto
7 Kosuke Fukudome/Reed Johnson
8 Ryan Theriot
Starting rotation
Carlos Zambrano
Ryan Dempster
Ted Lilly
Rich Harden
Sean Marshall
That is something I came around and something I just had to share. Member I will always post the rumors when I come around with it.
Buster Olney has 2 different lineups for Lou Pinella:
Lineup 1
1 Mike Fontenot
2 Derek Lee
3 Milton Bradley
4 Aramis Ramirez
5 Kosuke Fukudome
6 Alfonso Soriano
7 Geovany Soto
8 Ryan Theriot
Lineup 2
1 Ryan Theriot
2 Alfonso Soriano
3 Milton Bradley
4 Aramis Ramirez
5 Derek lee
6 Kosuke Fukudome
7 Geovany Soto
8 Mike Fontenot
This is the lineup and starting 5 from Sporting news:
Lineup
1 Alfonso Soriano
2 Aaron Miles
3 Derek Lee
4 Milton Bradley
5 Aramis Ramirez
6 Geovany Soto
7 Kosuke Fukudome/Reed Johnson
8 Ryan Theriot
Starting rotation
Carlos Zambrano
Ryan Dempster
Ted Lilly
Rich Harden
Sean Marshall
That is something I came around and something I just had to share. Member I will always post the rumors when I come around with it.
Lineups
These Lineups are from different people:
Buster Olney has 2 different lineups for Lou Pinella:
Lineup 1
1 Mike Fontenot
2 Derek Lee
3 Milton Bradley
4 Aramis Ramirez
5 Kosuke Fukudome
6 Alfonso Soriano
7 Geovany Soto
8 Ryan Theriot
Lineup 2
1 Ryan Theriot
2 Alfonso Soriano
3 Milton Bradley
4 Aramis Ramirez
5 Derek lee
6 Kosuke Fukudome
7 Geovany Soto
8 Mike Fontenot
This is the lineup and starting 5 from Sporting news:
Lineup
1 Alfonso Soriano
2 Aaron Miles
3 Derek Lee
4 Milton Bradley
5 Aramis Ramirez
6 Geovany Soto
7 Kosuke Fukudome/Reed Johnson
8 Ryan Theriot
Starting rotation
Carlos Zambrano
Ryan Dempster
Ted Lilly
Rich Harden
Sean Marshall
That is something I came around and something I just had to share. Member I will always post the rumors when I come around with it.
Buster Olney has 2 different lineups for Lou Pinella:
Lineup 1
1 Mike Fontenot
2 Derek Lee
3 Milton Bradley
4 Aramis Ramirez
5 Kosuke Fukudome
6 Alfonso Soriano
7 Geovany Soto
8 Ryan Theriot
Lineup 2
1 Ryan Theriot
2 Alfonso Soriano
3 Milton Bradley
4 Aramis Ramirez
5 Derek lee
6 Kosuke Fukudome
7 Geovany Soto
8 Mike Fontenot
This is the lineup and starting 5 from Sporting news:
Lineup
1 Alfonso Soriano
2 Aaron Miles
3 Derek Lee
4 Milton Bradley
5 Aramis Ramirez
6 Geovany Soto
7 Kosuke Fukudome/Reed Johnson
8 Ryan Theriot
Starting rotation
Carlos Zambrano
Ryan Dempster
Ted Lilly
Rich Harden
Sean Marshall
That is something I came around and something I just had to share. Member I will always post the rumors when I come around with it.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Breakdown of NL Central
I will tell you, what they did ( Main Acquisitions and departures) and also what grade I will give them:
Milwaukee Brewers:
Acquisitions: Craig Counsell, Trevor Hoffman.
Departures: C.C Sabathia, Eric Gagne, Jason Kendall, Ben Sheets, Ray Durham.
Grade: D, because they have no pitching now and really did not upgrade. In my opinion there team is not going to be as good as this last year,
St. Louis Cardinals:
Acquisitions: Khalil Greene.
Departures: Branden Looper, Jason Isringhausen, Mark Mulder, Cesar Izturis, Aaron Miles, Russ Springer, Felipe Lopez.
Grade: D, because they loss pitching and the lost pitching and infielders that can play all of them. They got Khalil Greene but he did not do good last year.
Cincinatti Reds:
Acquisitions: Mike Lincoln, Jerry Hairston jr., Arthur Rhodes, Willy Taveras Roman Hernadez.
Departures: Jeremy Affeldt, Ryan Freel, Corey Patterson.
Grade: B, because they got good relief pitchers and a speedster in Taveras, to play center field. They also never lost anybody that was that good.
Houston Astros:
Acquisitions: Latroy Hawkins, Doug Brocail, Aaron Boone, Mike Hampton.
Departures: Brad Ausmus, Ty Wigginton, Mark Loretta, Randy Wolf.
Grade: D, because they did nothing to compete with the Cubs and Reds. They lost pitching and utility players, with not upgrading over them.
Pittsburgh Pirates:
Acquisitions: Eric Hinske, Ramon Vazquez.
Departures: Ronny Paulino, Jason Michaels.
Grade: C, because they never made there team worst like the Cardinals and Brewers but also never upgraded there team.
Chicago Cubs:
Acquisitions: Milton Bradley, Aaron Miles, Kevin Gregg, Luis Vizcaino, Paul Bako, Aaron Heilman, Joey Gathright.
Departures: Jason Marquise, Mark Derosa, Henry Blanco, Kerry Wood, Felix Pie, Bob Howry, Ronny Cedeno, Jose Ceda.
Grade: B, because they got there balance lineup with the addition of Bradley but they did lose a good utility guy in Derosa and a good relief pitcher in Wood.
That is what the teams did this off season so far.
Now I will tell you the standings, in which I think they will be in.
Chicago Cubs
Cincinatti Reds
Milwaukee Brewers
St Louis Cardinals
Houston Astros
Pittsburgh Pirates
OK that is what I have and I will always keep you posted on the Cubs rumors and notes.
Milwaukee Brewers:
Acquisitions: Craig Counsell, Trevor Hoffman.
Departures: C.C Sabathia, Eric Gagne, Jason Kendall, Ben Sheets, Ray Durham.
Grade: D, because they have no pitching now and really did not upgrade. In my opinion there team is not going to be as good as this last year,
St. Louis Cardinals:
Acquisitions: Khalil Greene.
Departures: Branden Looper, Jason Isringhausen, Mark Mulder, Cesar Izturis, Aaron Miles, Russ Springer, Felipe Lopez.
Grade: D, because they loss pitching and the lost pitching and infielders that can play all of them. They got Khalil Greene but he did not do good last year.
Cincinatti Reds:
Acquisitions: Mike Lincoln, Jerry Hairston jr., Arthur Rhodes, Willy Taveras Roman Hernadez.
Departures: Jeremy Affeldt, Ryan Freel, Corey Patterson.
Grade: B, because they got good relief pitchers and a speedster in Taveras, to play center field. They also never lost anybody that was that good.
Houston Astros:
Acquisitions: Latroy Hawkins, Doug Brocail, Aaron Boone, Mike Hampton.
Departures: Brad Ausmus, Ty Wigginton, Mark Loretta, Randy Wolf.
Grade: D, because they did nothing to compete with the Cubs and Reds. They lost pitching and utility players, with not upgrading over them.
Pittsburgh Pirates:
Acquisitions: Eric Hinske, Ramon Vazquez.
Departures: Ronny Paulino, Jason Michaels.
Grade: C, because they never made there team worst like the Cardinals and Brewers but also never upgraded there team.
Chicago Cubs:
Acquisitions: Milton Bradley, Aaron Miles, Kevin Gregg, Luis Vizcaino, Paul Bako, Aaron Heilman, Joey Gathright.
Departures: Jason Marquise, Mark Derosa, Henry Blanco, Kerry Wood, Felix Pie, Bob Howry, Ronny Cedeno, Jose Ceda.
Grade: B, because they got there balance lineup with the addition of Bradley but they did lose a good utility guy in Derosa and a good relief pitcher in Wood.
That is what the teams did this off season so far.
Now I will tell you the standings, in which I think they will be in.
Chicago Cubs
Cincinatti Reds
Milwaukee Brewers
St Louis Cardinals
Houston Astros
Pittsburgh Pirates
OK that is what I have and I will always keep you posted on the Cubs rumors and notes.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Cubs news and around the MLB
The other news will be about old players on the Cubs or in the NL Central:
The Reds have sign ex Cubs Jacque Jones and Daryle Ward to minor league deals. According to Hal McCoy of the Dayton Daily News.
The Padres have sign Cliff Floyd to a 1 year and about 1 million. ESPN's Jayson Stark reports.
According to Jon Heyman, Ben Sheets is going to have elbow Surgery. He will be out at least until late July, early August. If everything does not go good, he can be out for the whole 2009 season. (At least the Brewers can't get him, but they already said they max out on there spending this off season).
Reed Johnson was one of 21 Chicago sports athletes to win a Comcast Sportsnet award.
The Cubs purchased the contract of catcher Shawn Mcgill from the Lincoln Saltdogs. Mcgill will be at Spring Training to help catch for all the pitchers that are coming.
Ken Rosenthal believes with the new ownership in San Diego, the Padres will still have to trade there ace Jake Peavy.
Cubs special assistant Gary Hughes was inducted in the Professional Scouts Hall of Fame.
Note: The Phillies are interested in Nomar Garciaparra and only want to offer him a minor league deal to play as a backup roll. He already said he wants a full time job somewhere.(I think the Cubs will offer him a major league deal around 1 10 2 million as a back up infielder) His agent says he doesn't expect a decision until spring training begins.
I will always keep you posted.
The Reds have sign ex Cubs Jacque Jones and Daryle Ward to minor league deals. According to Hal McCoy of the Dayton Daily News.
The Padres have sign Cliff Floyd to a 1 year and about 1 million. ESPN's Jayson Stark reports.
According to Jon Heyman, Ben Sheets is going to have elbow Surgery. He will be out at least until late July, early August. If everything does not go good, he can be out for the whole 2009 season. (At least the Brewers can't get him, but they already said they max out on there spending this off season).
Reed Johnson was one of 21 Chicago sports athletes to win a Comcast Sportsnet award.
The Cubs purchased the contract of catcher Shawn Mcgill from the Lincoln Saltdogs. Mcgill will be at Spring Training to help catch for all the pitchers that are coming.
Ken Rosenthal believes with the new ownership in San Diego, the Padres will still have to trade there ace Jake Peavy.
Cubs special assistant Gary Hughes was inducted in the Professional Scouts Hall of Fame.
Note: The Phillies are interested in Nomar Garciaparra and only want to offer him a minor league deal to play as a backup roll. He already said he wants a full time job somewhere.(I think the Cubs will offer him a major league deal around 1 10 2 million as a back up infielder) His agent says he doesn't expect a decision until spring training begins.
I will always keep you posted.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Chicago Cubs Contracts
I will put them in the order when they expire and how much they make this year:
Expires in 2008:
Geovany Soto 401K
Kevin Hart 392K
Angel Guzman 401K
Ryan Theriot 428K
Mike Fontenot 405K
Carlos Marmol 430K
Koyie Hill 475K
Expires in 2009:
Paul Bako 725K
Joey Gathright 800K
Neil Cotts 1.1M
Chad Gaudin 2M
Kevin Gregg 4.2M
Aaron Heilman 1.6M
Reed Johnson 3M
Luis Vizcaino (Club option for 2010) 3.5M
Rich Harden 7M
Lou Piniella (Club option for 2010) 3.3M
Expires in 2010:
Derek Lee 13M
Ted Lilly 12M
Aaron Miles 2.2M
Expires in 2011:
Kosuke Fukudome 11M
Milton Bradley 9M
Aramis Ramirez (Player option for 2011 and Club option for 2012) 15M
Jeff Samardzija (Club options for 2012 and 2013)
Expires in 2012:
Ryan Dempster 8M
Carlos Zambrano (Vesting option in 2013) 17M
Jim Hendry Contract Disclosed
Expires in 2013:
No one
Expires in 2014:
Alfonso Soriano 16M
Those are the contracts for 2009
Expires in 2008:
Geovany Soto 401K
Kevin Hart 392K
Angel Guzman 401K
Ryan Theriot 428K
Mike Fontenot 405K
Carlos Marmol 430K
Koyie Hill 475K
Expires in 2009:
Paul Bako 725K
Joey Gathright 800K
Neil Cotts 1.1M
Chad Gaudin 2M
Kevin Gregg 4.2M
Aaron Heilman 1.6M
Reed Johnson 3M
Luis Vizcaino (Club option for 2010) 3.5M
Rich Harden 7M
Lou Piniella (Club option for 2010) 3.3M
Expires in 2010:
Derek Lee 13M
Ted Lilly 12M
Aaron Miles 2.2M
Expires in 2011:
Kosuke Fukudome 11M
Milton Bradley 9M
Aramis Ramirez (Player option for 2011 and Club option for 2012) 15M
Jeff Samardzija (Club options for 2012 and 2013)
Expires in 2012:
Ryan Dempster 8M
Carlos Zambrano (Vesting option in 2013) 17M
Jim Hendry Contract Disclosed
Expires in 2013:
No one
Expires in 2014:
Alfonso Soriano 16M
Those are the contracts for 2009
Quick Hits
The Phillies and Giants, along with the Cubs are looking at Rich Aurillia.
The Padres and Cubs, have had no recent talks about Jake Peavy. (Probably because the ownership is not resolve yet).
The Cubs still have little interest in Branden Looper along with the Pirates. Looper said that he prefers to stay in the NL.
That is all I have right now, but will always keep you posted.
The Padres and Cubs, have had no recent talks about Jake Peavy. (Probably because the ownership is not resolve yet).
The Cubs still have little interest in Branden Looper along with the Pirates. Looper said that he prefers to stay in the NL.
That is all I have right now, but will always keep you posted.
Trade Scenarios
These are some trades, that might help the Cubs:
Scenario 1: Jake Peavy
Cubs get Jake Peavy
Padres get Castilla Marshall Guzman Hart Stevens
Scenario 2: Brian Roberts
Cubs get Brian Roberts
Orioles get Fontenot Marshall Guzman RYAN FLAHERTY
Scenario 3: Chone Figgins
Cubs get Chone Figgins
Angels get Fontenot STARLIN CASTRO
Scenario 4: Delmon Young
Cubs get Delmon Young
Twins get Kosuke Castilla Hart
Scenario 5: Jose Valverde
Cubs get Jose Valverde
Astros get Castilla Guzman Hart
Scenario 6: Roy Halladay
Cubs get Roy Halladay
Blue Jays get Marshall Guzman Hart Castilla Stevens
Scenario 7: BJ Ryan
Cubs get BJ Ryan
Blue Jays get Marshall Hart BLAKE PARKER
That is some trades that might help the Cubs, so what do you think of it.
Scenario 1: Jake Peavy
Cubs get Jake Peavy
Padres get Castilla Marshall Guzman Hart Stevens
Scenario 2: Brian Roberts
Cubs get Brian Roberts
Orioles get Fontenot Marshall Guzman RYAN FLAHERTY
Scenario 3: Chone Figgins
Cubs get Chone Figgins
Angels get Fontenot STARLIN CASTRO
Scenario 4: Delmon Young
Cubs get Delmon Young
Twins get Kosuke Castilla Hart
Scenario 5: Jose Valverde
Cubs get Jose Valverde
Astros get Castilla Guzman Hart
Scenario 6: Roy Halladay
Cubs get Roy Halladay
Blue Jays get Marshall Guzman Hart Castilla Stevens
Scenario 7: BJ Ryan
Cubs get BJ Ryan
Blue Jays get Marshall Hart BLAKE PARKER
That is some trades that might help the Cubs, so what do you think of it.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Michael Wuertz and Rich Hill Traded
According to a press release from the Cubs today, the Cubs traded Rich Hill to the Baltimore Orioles for a player to be named later.
According to a press release from the Cubs, the Cubs traded Michael Wuertz to Oakland Athletics for 2 minor league players Richie Robnett and Justin Sellers.
Both Michael Wuertz and Rich Hill were out of options, so at least the Cubs got something in return for them.
I will keep you posted on this busy week so far.
According to a press release from the Cubs, the Cubs traded Michael Wuertz to Oakland Athletics for 2 minor league players Richie Robnett and Justin Sellers.
Both Michael Wuertz and Rich Hill were out of options, so at least the Cubs got something in return for them.
I will keep you posted on this busy week so far.
Michael Wuertz
According to the Cubs reporter, the Rangers and the A's are talking about a trade for Michael Wuertz. Michael Wuertz is another player, in the Cubs bullpen that is out of options.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Rich Hill Update
Here is some news on Rich Hill:
Update:Update: Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun says the deal for Rich Hill is going to be a player to be named later and could get done as early as Monday. Hill is going to, be working with his old pitching coaches (Who were on the Cubs staff).
Peter Schmuck of the Baltimore Sun believes the Baltimore Orioles will complete a trade for Cubs left-handed pitcher Rich Hill by Tuesday -- if the Orioles will do the deal at all.
Schmuck writes that now other organizations are aware that Hill could be made available, additional teams -- including the Royals and Mariners -- could make an offer.
Orioles general manager Andy MacPhail might be waiting to see if he can sign free agent right-handed pitcher Braden Looper, Schmuck adds.
They might be willing to acquire both pitchers, but there is the small matter of moving players off the 40-man roster to make room, so maybe Andy is just going to take one or the other.
Hill, 29 in March, is 18-17 in 57 starts with a 4.37 ERA during a short four-season career. He spend much of 2008 in Triple-A.
Looper, 34, went 12-14 in 33 starts with a 4.16 ERA with the St. Louis Cardinals last season.
That is latest on the Cubs, but I will always keep you posted.
Update:Update: Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun says the deal for Rich Hill is going to be a player to be named later and could get done as early as Monday. Hill is going to, be working with his old pitching coaches (Who were on the Cubs staff).
Peter Schmuck of the Baltimore Sun believes the Baltimore Orioles will complete a trade for Cubs left-handed pitcher Rich Hill by Tuesday -- if the Orioles will do the deal at all.
Schmuck writes that now other organizations are aware that Hill could be made available, additional teams -- including the Royals and Mariners -- could make an offer.
Orioles general manager Andy MacPhail might be waiting to see if he can sign free agent right-handed pitcher Braden Looper, Schmuck adds.
They might be willing to acquire both pitchers, but there is the small matter of moving players off the 40-man roster to make room, so maybe Andy is just going to take one or the other.
Hill, 29 in March, is 18-17 in 57 starts with a 4.37 ERA during a short four-season career. He spend much of 2008 in Triple-A.
Looper, 34, went 12-14 in 33 starts with a 4.16 ERA with the St. Louis Cardinals last season.
That is latest on the Cubs, but I will always keep you posted.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)