The Chicago Cubs All Decade Team- Position Players

The Chicago Cubs went 733-737 in the 2000s, but the ten "average" years will never be forgotten by most fans. This winter, you've been voting on the polls on our sidebar that asked you: "Who is the Cubs top (blank position) of the 2000s?", so now we put those poll-winners together for the Chicago Cubs all Decade Team...

*Note that all stats are from 2000-2009 only, with the Cubs only!

Catcher- Joe Girardi
Years with Cubs: 2000-2002
Became a Cub: On December 15, 1999 when he was signed
Batting Averages: .278, .253, .226
Awards/Honors: 2000 NL All Star Team
Notes: This was his second stint with the Cubs!
Where is he now: Manager of the New York Yankees

First Base- Derrek Lee
Years with Cubs: 2004-present
Became a Cub on: November 25, 2003 when he was traded from Florida in exchange for Mike Nannini and Hee Seop Choi.
Batting Average as a Cub: .304 in 815 Games
Awards/Honors: 2005 and 2007 NL All Star Team; 2005 NL batting title; 2003, 2005, and 2007 NL Gold Glove at 1B.
Notes: Signed through 2010

Second Base- Mark DeRosa
Years with the Cubs: 2007-2008
Became a Cub on: November 14, 2006 signed as a FA
Left the Cubs on: December 31, 2008 when he was traded to Cleveland for Jeff Stevens, John Gaub, and Chris Archer
Batting Average as a Cub: .289 in 298 games
Notes: Played 2B, 3B, RF, 1B, LF, and SS in both seasons with the Cubs.
Where is he now: Signed with SF Giants

Shortstop- Ryan Theriot
Years with the Cubs: 2005-present
Became a Cub on: September 13, 2005 when he made his big league debut
Batting Average as a Cub: .288 in 513 games
Honors/Awards: Led the NL in singles in 2007 and 2008
Notes: Currently looking to avoid arbitration with club

Third Base- Aramis Ramirez
Years with the Cubs: 2003-present
Became a Cub on: July 23, 2003 when he was traded from the Pirates with Kenny Lofton for Matt Bruback, Jose Hernandez, and Bobby Hill.
Batting Average as a Cub: .300 in 851 games
Honors/Awards: 2005 and 2008 NL All Star; 2008 Hank Aaron Award
Notes: Signed through 2011, plus 2012 club option

Outfield- Sammy Sosa
Years with the Cubs: 1992-2004
Became a Cub on: March 30, 1992 when the White Sox sent him to the North Side along with Ken Patterson in return for George Bell
Left the Cubs on: February 2, 2005 when the Cubs sent him to Baltimore for Dave Crouthers, Mike Fontenot, and Jerry Hairston
Batting Averages in 2000s: .320, .328, .288, .279, and .253
Honors/Awards: 2001, 2002, and 2004 NL All Star; 2000, '01, and '02 NL Silver Slugger; led NL in runs scored in 2001 and '02; led league in HR in 2000 and 2002; led NL in RBIs in 2001; and led the NL in Intentional Base on Balls in 2001 (with 37!)
Where is he now?: Announced his retirement on June 3, 2009 after the World Baseball Classic. He is currently "calmy waiting" his induction into the Hall of Fame.
Notes: *

Outfield- Moises Alou
Years with the Cubs: 2002-2004
Became a Cub on: December 19, 2001 when he signed with the Cubs
Left the Cubs on: January 5, 2005 when he signed with the Giants
Batting Average as a Cub: .283 in 438 games
Honors/Awards: 2004 NL All Star
Where is he now?: On March 5, 2009 announced that he would retire after the World Baseball Classic. He is now the GM for a Dominican Winter League team.
Notes: One of the few MLB players who batted without batting gloves.

Outfield- Alfonso Soriano
Years with the Cubs: 2007-present
Became a Cub on: November 20, 2006 when he signed with the team
Batting Average as a Cub: .275 in 361 games
Honors/Awards: 2007 and 2008 NL All Star
Notes: Signed through 2014- so he could be on the "All Cubs Decade Team 2010-2020", or also might end up on the "Not-So All Decade Team 2010-2020". Time will tell.

Up Next: The Pitchers

Rumor Roundup: Cubs Still Have a Lot of Work to Do

The Chicago Cubs have a lot of holes and needs right now. Jim Hendry, who has done nothing except dump Aaron Miles, Aaron Heilman, Jake Fox, and Milton Bradley this offseason, needs to get to work. Maybe Jim learned a lesson when he over-payed for guys early in the winter last year, but he cannot wait too long as he has already lost out on many of his targets. The Chicago Cubs need to have an active next month and a half, because right now there are still many areas that need improvement and added depth. Earlier I updated my projected Cub Opening Day roster. Tonight, let's go through some of the areas the Cubs need help, and take a look at the latest rumors...

Outfield
Right now, the 40-man roster consists of 5 outfielders: Alfonso Soriano, Sam Fuld, James Adducci, Tyler Colvin, and Kosuke. You can forget Adducci, Colvin showed some promise but will likely start the year at AAA, and Fuld is a 4th outfielder at best. Soriano and Fukudome have shown inconsistency and injuries over the past few seasons, so you cannot count on them to start each and everyday for you. Most likely, both of them will either suffer an injury or go through a slump at some point in 2010. So the point is, the Cubs need to add outfielders (note the plural). Phil Rodgers says that the "Cubs aren't blown away by any of the outfielders on the free agent market." He speculated that Fernando Perez, a speedy Rays outfielder who is recovering from shoulder surgery, "would be an interesting gamble". Perez would cost the Cubs a top prospects according to NBC Sports. Marlon Byrd, Rick Ankiel, and Scott Podsednik remain options according to Rodgers. Reed Johnson could still resign with the Cubs. Carrie Muskat has told us that the Cubs like the way he plays, but are concerned about his ability to stay healthy. Last week I had a numbers breakdown that compared Johnson with other Cub outfield candidates. The other new and interesting Cub outfield rumor comes from Bruce Levine. Mr. Chicago Baseball says the Cubs have had talks with the Rockies about a trade that would bring Ryan Spilborghs to Chicago to replace Reed as the 4th outfielder. Spilborghs has good defense and plays all 3 outfield positions. In an article separate from the one where he wrote about Perez, Phil Rodgers (who is sometimes accused of making up rumors himself) reports that the Cubs would "immediately make an effort to land Jacoby Ellsbury" to fill their center field/leadoff hole if the Red Sox end up with Holliday or Bay. Rodgers goes on to say that this scenario helps explain why the Cubs have been so patient in studying their outfield options. Ellsbury would cost the Cubs a major prospect package. Phil listed Josh Vitters, Hak-Ju Lee, Andrew Cashner, and Jay Jackson as guys that could be included. The Cubs are also rumored to have interest in Johnny Damon. Dave O'Brien reports that Melky Cabrera (who was acquired from the Yankees last week) could be used as a trade chip. Jon Heyman tweets that if the Braves consider trading him, they should contact the Cubs, who'd love him for center field. In addition, David DeJesus could be an option. The Cubs have spoken to the Royals about DeJesus. Levine reiterated that Byrd and Podsednik remain 1-2 on the outfield list.

Pitching Depth
Sure, the Cubs have Carlos Zambrano, Randy Wells, Ted Lilly, and Ryan Dempster all returning, but with Harden gone via free agency and Lilly starting the season on the DL, there are two spots open in the rotation to start the year going into Spring Training. I'd like to see more than one good year out of Wells before you can count on him, and Big Z is never a sure thing. Although overal the rotation is solid, the bullpen is not. Carlos Marmol is the closer, he had good stuff but his control is a question mark. John Grabow and Angel Guzman are the only other guys that you know will be in the pen right now, and after that there's four question marks. So for two rotation spots and four bullpen spots we have Carlos Silva, Mike Parisi, David Patton, Jeff Samardzija, Tom Gorzelanny, John Gaub, Esmalin Caridad, Mitch Atkins, Jeff Stevens, Sean Marshall, Justin Berg, and Arismendy Mota all in the mix in Spring Training. On problem: will hese guys pitch well? The big Cub rumor on the pitching side going around today was that the Cubs have had talks with Jose Contreras' agent about the possibility of the former White Sox hurler to pitch for the Cubbies in 2010. The veteran right hander would "bring a certain amount of protection for the team, considering the unknown status of rehabbing lefty Ted Lilly" according to ESPNChicago.com. Contreras could be in the rotation until Lilly returns and then would be moved to the bullpen. Kiko Calero is also still on the Cubs' radar for the bullpen. The Cubs had to move on to other options for the bullpen after they lost out on former Pirates closer Matt Capps who signed with the Washington Nationals just before Christmas. The other Cub pitching rumor is that Carlos Zambrano could be available. Jon Heyman tweeted tonight that the Yankees "definitely had talked to the Cubs about Zambrano, who appears eminently available." Big Z has a no-trade clause, and right now it doesn't seem like it would make sense for the Cubs to trade him unless they get an ace pitcher back. Some rehab guys like Ben Sheets are on the Cubs radar. The Cubs are talking with Ben Sheets. Carlos Silva could also be a major factor in the rotation.

Middle Infield
Not a lot of rumors related to the Cubs middle infield to report. Carrie Muskat told us a few days back that the Cubs are fine with going into the year with Andres Blanco, Jeff Baker, and Mike Fontenot as the second baseman. We've heard a lot about Starlin Castro this winter. Castro could be ready for the big leagues at some point in 2010. At the start of the year, Theriot is expected to be the short stop. Former Cub infielder Mark DeRosa is close to signing a 2 year $12 million deal with San Fransisco. Felipe Lopez, Orlando Hudson, and Kelly Johnson are among the free agent middle infielders that make sense for the Cubs. Orlando Cabrera could be an option if the Cubs are willing to move Theriot to second.

The Cubs are also in need of a solid pinch hitter.

Well that's it for tonight, lots of great stuff to come in the next few days!

Talkin' Baseball & More

Updated at 9:15 with Jake Fox on Waddle and Silvy

Here's a recap of what Fox had to say on ESPN Radio in reaction to being traded:

• This is a very good move for Jake and his family.
• They are going to miss Chicago.
• Fox respects Jim Hendry a lot because he moved him to a place where he can play everyday. Hendry was thinking about Jake when he made the trade, not himself.
• The day after the season ended, Jim and Jake discussed his future.
• Hendry is always honest and open, but things have always not been smooth between he and Fox.
• He thinks it's disappointing that there's not a fit for him with the Cubs.
• Jim said that maybe someday the Cubs will have a chance to get him back to Chicago.
• The basis for Fox's disagreements with Jim was that he thought he should be higher than he was in the organization. Jake felt Jim underestimated him a little bit.
• He loves being out in the field, and he hopes that he gets a chance to play defense with the A's. The A's have told him that if he hits, he will play.
• He has gotten where he's at because of his bat.
• Milton Bradley was a great guy to him. He took Bradley under his wing and he was always under his wing.
• Jake was in the Dominican at his hotel room.

Talkin' Baseball was on ESPN 1000 today with Bruce Levine and Jonathan Hood

• Bruce Levine described Aaron Miles season as one of the worst seasons in baseball history.
• Levine likes the trade with the A's.
• Jeff Gray is going to compete in Spring Training. He's a power arm, but command is a key for him.
• The Cubs and White Sox could be looking at similar types of players at the Winter Meetings.
• Levine says the Cubs got a good young right hander and a solid minor league outfielder. He disagreed with a caller who said they got "nothing" for Fox.
• Jake Fox is nobody's starting position player in the National League.
• Jake's "a good solid backup in Major League Baseball". But he's nobody's "Derrek Lee".
• Lee could get an extension after next year from the Chicago Cubs.
• Mark DeRosa is not a fit on the Cubs team. He's not a second baseman any more range wise. He's being looked at as a first and third baseman. Mark is asking for 3 year around $25M. You can't have a utility guy making that kind of money.
• If Mike Fontenot is the everyday second basemen, it could be another long season for the Cubs according to Bruce and Jonathan.
• The Cubs are offering arbitration to all of their players including Fontenot.
• Jeff Baker is going to be the backup 3rd baseman and a part time 2nd baseman.
• Orlando Hudson is going to the Rockies according to one rumor, but he would be a good fit for the Cubs.
• Bruce says Starlin Castro has a 50% chance of making the Cubs opening day roster. He could use a few months at AA or AAA first, but he should be with the Cubs at some point during 2010.
• If the Cubs move Theriot to 2B, they could be interested in Orlando Cabrera.
• There are not too many exciting names out there as far as free agent middle infielders.
• Bruce thinks a 7 game division series will be bad for baseball.
• If the Cubs move to Florida, some of the rides will be about 2.5 hours to get to some of the other Spring sites.
• Either place (AZ or FL) is going to be a great place for the Cubs and their fans, but leaving Arizona will not go over well with folks who have winter homes in Arizona just to watch the Cubs.

Jim Hendry joined the guys to talk Cubs:

• The Cubs have done a few good things already.
• A lot of activity will go on around MLB well into January this year.
• The Cubs are prepared to try to add an outfielder somewhere along the line.
• They would also like to augment their bullpen.
• Hendry reiterated that this team only needs a few tweaks this winter.
• They need resurgence type years out of guys like "Sori, Soto, and Fontenot". Jim says that they need their own good players to come back and do better than last year.
• Carlos Zambrano needs to get back on track this year.
• Hendry doesn't think that you have to have a "prototypical lead-off man" to win.
• Anyone who gets on base a lot can lead off now a days.
• The Cubs struggled with men in scoring position with less than two outs.
• It's way too early to tell who the lead off man would be. "We could have two or three different guys here by then."
• When you're looking to trade or add someone, the Winter Meetings help to try to move things along.
• Deals never always go the way you script them up according to Hendry.
• The Cubs are going to Indy with a lot of things they want to talk to people about.

Cubs Needs

Carrie Muskat listed the Cubs needs as we get ready for the Winter Meetings:

• 1. Center Fielder
• 2. Right handed reliever
• 3. second basmean
• 4. Trade Bradley and maybe Hoffpauir
• Top Prospects: OF Tyler Colvin, SS Castro, RHP Andrew Cashner, RHP Casey Coleman, RHP Chris Carpenter, SS Darwin Barney, RHP Blake Parker, 3B Josh Vitters
• Arbitration-eligible: 2B Baker, LHP Neal Cotts, 2B Fontenot, LHP Tom Gorzelanny, RHP Angel Guzman, RHP Marmol, LHP Sean Marshall, C Koyie Hill, SS Theriot
• There will be a slight increase in payroll next season.

That's it for now, with the meetings starting Monday, I'll have lots of posts to come this weekend.

Who's On the Cubs Shopping List?

Since it's Black Friday, I thought it would be fitting to take a look at Jim Hendry's shopping list for this winter. Included with each name is my prediction of how likely it is that they will become a Cub.

• Curtis Granderson- Cubs have reportedly been pursuing the Tigers' outfielder most of the month. Could be one of the Cubs top choices, but they're not willing to give up Starlin Castro or any other top prospects, and the Tigers have a high asking price. 35%
• Roy Halladay- The Blue Jays have contacted the Cubs about Halladay, but the Cubs are most likely not going to add him unless Carlos Zambrano leaves. Also, the Cubs don't have the cash or prospects to get this deal done. 2%
• Pat Burrell- If the Cubs pull of a trade that sends Milton Bradley to the Rays, they most likely will end up taking Burrell. According to Bruce Levine, if the Cubs would then try to move Burrell. 45%
• Aroldis Chapman- Earlier in the offseason, the Cubs were included in the list of just about every MLB team that was interested in Cuban lefty Aroldis Chapman. Right now, he's most likely headed for either Boston or New York. 1%
• Mike Gonzalez- now that the Cubs have re-signed Grabow, they are unlikely to pursue a left handed reliever 4%
• Chone Figgins- The utility speedster would fit the Cubs needs, but they may not be able to afford him. The Mets, Phillies, and Angels are also in on him, but their is no front runner. Giggins will be 32 year old in Spring Training. 19%
• Mike Cameron- Has been listed as a backup plan for the Cubs if they are unable to land Granderson. The Padres, Braves, and Yankees also are in the mix. He will not return to Brewers. 60%
• Matt Holliday- Jon Heyman groups the Cubs as a possible fit for Holliday, but this is not very likely. 5%
• Luis Castillo- There were reports from FOX Sports that Castillo could end up with the Cubs in the 3-team trade that would send Bradley to the Rangers. Other media outlets shot down the report. Castillo is most likely not the answer for the Cubs middle infield. 10%
• Marlon Byrd- Byrd is anotheroption to replace Bradley in the Cubs outfield. T.R. Sullivan sees a 3-year deal worth 18-24MM for the former Rangers. Byrd wants to return to the Rangers, but they most likely will let him walk. 25%
• Mark DeRosa- According to most sources, DeRo is not coming back to the Chicago. They don't have the money for him, and feel that he is too old to make a long term commitment to.
• Orlando Hudson- Bruce Levine is a big fan of the O-Dog, and has mentioned that he would look good in blue. Hudson will seek a 2 year deal worth at least $15MM. Hudson could hit second and play second base, but the Cubs may not have the money. 40%

Let me know what you think in the comment or at cubsblogmailbag@aol.com

A few more Black Friday Cubs Notes:

• Bruce Miles doesn't see the Cubs as a player for Halladay.
• He adds that Starlin Castro is not going to be traded.
• Kosuke's Q&A with Carrie Muskat.
• Sammy Sosa has been sued for $203K in Domician court.
• Paul Sullivan says the Cubs aren't going to rush Starlin Castro. He will get an invite to Spring Training, and a chance to break camp with the Cubs if he has a great spring. However, it's a long shot.
• Ryan Theriot has been told that he may have to move to second base in the near future to make room for Castillo as short. He's fine with the idea. "Ryan feels like if he has to change positions and move to second base, he would have no problems," Hendry said. "He has made it no secret he loves the Cubs and wants to stay.
• Cubscast put together a great Thanksgiving All Music episode.
• The CCO Radio will return on Wednesday, December 2.
• Check out yesterday's post to find out what Cubs fans are thankful for.

It's been a fairly slow week on the Cubs front, but things are expected to heat up after the holiday weekend. We will continue with daily Cubs related posts!

Organizational Meetings Day 3-4 Tidbits

• The first two Cubs filed for free agency yesterday in Reed Johnson and Rich Harden.
• Harden, a type B free agent, could return to the Cubs if he will take a one year deal, but the Cubs are hesitant to give him a multi-year contract according to Carrie Muskat of Cubs.com.
• Reed Johnson's 2009 season was limited because of injuries. With Sam Fuld and Tyler Colvin on the way up, if the Cubs add 1 more outfielder to replace Bradley (assuming they trade Milton), Reed may not be a fit for the Cubs. The Cubs do love his heart and hard work.
• For the next 2 weeks, the Cubs have exclusive negotiating rights with Johnson, Harden, and the other 3 Cubs free agents who have yet to file.
• Expansion of the women's bathrooms on the first-base side of the ballpark and upgrading the lighting fixtures in the men's room will take place in 2010.
• They also plan to move the umpires locker room from the third-base side to the first-base side of the park next season according to Bruce Levine.
• "Upgrading the work environment for the players is also a major goal of the new owners."
• The Cubs hope to step up their fan-relationship department by hiring a chief hospitality officer, whose only job would be to check with fans on daily basis to make sure their experience at Wrigley Field is going well.
• The Cubs will also have a "well-known" marketing director named to that position by the end of the week.
• The Chicago Tribune speculates that Josh Vitters could be next in line for the Cubs third base job after Ramirez becomes a FA after the 2011 season. Vitters said, "Sounds good to me."
• Derrick Goold, a Cardinals beat writer, expects the Cubs to make an offer to Mark DeRosa.

The Cubs are going to need to add a power hitting outfielder that can play either center or right if they trade Bradley. Here is the full list of free agents outfielders (RF & CF):

• Rick Ankiel
• Rocco Baldellli
• Marlon Byrd
• Mike Cameron
• Endy Chavez
• Coco Crisp
• Darin Erstad
• Jeff Fiorentino
• Ryan Freel
• Jerry Hariston Jr.
• Reed Johnson
• Andruw Jones
• Corey Patterson
• Scott Podsednik
• DeWayne Wise
• Jermaine Dye
• Brian Giles
• Vladimir Guerrero
• Eric Hinske
• Geoff Jenkins
• Austin Kearns
• Jason Michaels
• Xavier Nady
• Randy Winn

See any names you like? (Corey Patterson or Jerry Hairston Jr.?)

That's it for now, I'll keep you posted!

Friday Afternoon Rumor Roundup

Let's Start with a few Radio Recaps

Rudy Jaramillo, the new Cubs hitting coach, was on Chicago Tribune Live with David Kaplan and company.

• Rudy says that the Cubs did the same thing as the Rangers this year as they went the other way after a great 2008 offensive season.
• He will be doing his homework this offseason about the players.
• When Sullivan said that Rudy is expected to turn this team around quickly, Rudy said, "That's my job."
• Jaramillo says this was the place he wanted to be, and he is blessed that it worked out.
• He came here to get it done, whatever it takes.
• Rudy says that Alfonso Soriano has always swung a big bat, and that is not the problem with him. He noticed that Alfonso's lower half needs some work.
• It depends on the situation whether the Cubs will be swinging at the first pitches a lot, or taking the ball.
• Texas led the league in seeing pitches last year.
• "I like to play the game... Moving the guys over, bunting, hit and run."

Next Todd Hollandsworth joined Kap, Sully, Casey Johnson, and Mark Carmen:

• Todd thinks Rudy is a great addition. Jaramillo is about bringing confidence, playing the mental game, and finding ways to build success. That's just what the Cubs need.
• Holly says Rudy is not a loud person, but he gets the job done.
• Paul asked if this guy could do something with Milton. Todd says that Rudy is fantastic at bringing confidence and changing swings. However, he doesn't think that Bradley is going to come back.
• Rudy is the best, but there is not a lot of attachment between him and Bradley.
• Jaramillo can't hit for these guys, but he can help.
• Todd thinks Alfonso Soriano will be helped the most by Rudy.
• Too many of the Cubs hitters fell into pot holes for a long period of time, and the hitting coach should have stepped in last year.

Ricketts Family's Wish List

David Kaplan noted last week on Chicago Tribune live that the Ricketts family will trade Bradley first, then possibly add another outfielder. Kap bets that the Cubs will be more family friendly once Tom takes over.

Second Base

When asked about the Cubs signing Mark DeRosa because he was such a popular player, Carrie Muskat of Cubs.com said, "If they signed players because they were popular, Mark Grace would still be starting at first. Never say never, but keep in mind, DeRosa will be 35, he'll be coming off wrist surgery and a .250 season in which he posted a .319 on-base percentage and struck out 121 times. DeRosa would love the chance to work again with new Cubs hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo again." Jeff Baker is the front runner to start at second next year according to Carrie.

Coaching Staff

The Cubs have signed Rudy Jaramillo to come in and help the Cubs hitting, and one other coach that is out that could really be a factor is pitching coach Dave Duncan. If any coach could really help this team, it would be Duncan. There has been lots of speculation on Duncan coming to the Cubs, but the team has already said that they will bring back to the rest of the coaching staff. Larry Rothschild is a good friend of Jim Hendry's and Lou's, so if the Cubs do part ways with him it will have to be ownership's decision.

Cubs Interested Chapman

Both the Cubs and White Sox are interested in Aroldis Chapman according to MLBTradeRumors.com. Chapman is a Cuban prospect who will arrive in New York to start a series of meetings with several GMs. He will likely demand a contract worth $40-$60MM.

Shocking Interest in Bradley

According to Ken Rosenthal, multiple teams are in contact with the Cubs about outfielder Milton Bradley. On source even said, "You would be shocked at the the level of interest." The Cubs are confident that they can pull of a trade for Milton. Jim Hendry says that the Rudy Jaramillo hiring has nothing to do with Milton Bradley.

Hawpe Not Being Shopped

Brad Hawpe may have been a fit for the Cubs, but the Rockies officials have denied that they are going to shop him.

Kelly Johnson a Fit?

Rob G. from the Cubs Reporter speculates that Kelly Johnson could be a Cub offseason target.

Rudy & Jim on Sports Central

Rudy Jaramillo and Jim Hendry joined David Kaplan on Sports Central last night for some Cubs talk. Rudy first:

• Jarmillo is still in town, enjoying himself.
• It was Rudy's choice to leave Texas.
• He has always been interested in the Cubs.
• Chicago is a great baseball town, the fans are great, and Rudy wanted to be a part of this organization.
• He is going to do everything he can to win these kids over quick.
• Jaramillo wants to get it done in a short amount of time.
• Rudy is happy to have this opportunity. Jim Hendry has been outstanding.

Then Jim Hendry:

• 30 different guys have called Rudy the best in the business according to Kaplan.
• Jim thinks that Jaramillo reputation is outstanding and speaks for itself.
• The players that have played under Rudy love him and respect him, as do his peers like coaches and managers.
• Other hitting coaches have called Jaramillo off the charts.
• The Cubs were having some meetings last week at Fitch Park to start the offseason plan, and during last Wednesdays' meeting it was announced that Jaramillo was not going back to Texas. The next morning, Jim got permission to talk to Rudy.
• This is Jim's life and job, so nobody gets more frustrated then him.
• The 2009 season never went how the Cubs expected it to.
• Last offseason, the Cubs felt they made the Cubs better. 95% of people picked the Cubs to win the division. However, the Cubs didn't factor in all the guys that wouldn't swing the bat well.
• August 7th the Cubs were tied for first place, but then things went south.
• Jim didn't feel gloom and doom until early September.
• It felt like the Cubs were 20 games out, even though it was just a few. Kap and Jim agree that the Cubs never really felt like they were going to the postseason this year.
• The expectations were so high in 2009, that when the Cubs weren't playing great the disappointment was great.
• Rudy and Jim didn't talk a lot of Milton Bradley on the telephone.
• Bradley seemed to be going on the upswing, but it just didn't work out last year.
• The Cubs knew there was some risk in signing Milton, but they took a calculated gamble. They thought the middle of the order was solid.
• The team is looking forward to having Tom Ricketts on board, and that is coming soon. It doesn't sound like they will start making moves until Ricketts takes over.
• Jim would like the Cubs to get a little better offensively. They would like to get a little faster, but they have a lot of in-house lead-off man candidates.
• Starlin Castro, "Is really good." Hendry is a big fan of the AFL and other instructional leagues.
• Castro is one of the premier guys in the industry, but the Cubs are not going to put a lot of pressure on the young man. Jim said, "Hopefully he'll be here sometime in 2010. Rudy will have a big hand in deciding when he's ready."
• Hendry thinks the Ricketts family wants to own the Cubs for a long time. Jim is looking forward to getting to know Tom.
• "I know we're going to be having a press conference here in the near future at Wrigley field. I think Tom is going to be a part of the organizational meetings in November," the Cubs GM said.

Scales to AAA

The Cubs have sent Bobby Scales to Iowa. The Cubs 40-man roster is now at 38. Is there a move on the way?

That's it for now, I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always!

Numbers Breakdown: Mark DeRosa VS Jeff Baker

This year, when the Cubs acquired Jeff Baker via a trade with the Rockies, Baker kind of filled the void left by the Mark DeRosa trade last December. Baker played all over the field, hit great, and played the game the right way, as did DeRo. Let's compare Jeff's 2009 season with the Cubs to Mark's with the Cardinals. Baker played 69 games with the Cubs, and Mark played in 68 games with St. Louis.

Batting Average
Baker- .228
DeRosa- .250
Point Baker

Home Runs
Baker- 4
DeRosa- 10
Point DeRosa

RBIs
Baker- 21
DeRosa- 28
Point DeRosa

OBP
Baker- .362
DeRosa- .291
Point Baker

Clubhouse- Tie
Versatility- Tie

So Jeff Baker may not be Mark DeRosa, but he's pretty close.

And the number don't lie!

New Cubs Poll

Hey Cubs fans, first of all thanks to all 45 voters on our last poll on the right sidebar of my blog. Brian Roberts is clearly the guy that most of you want to see leading off for the Cubbies. Today I have a new poll up over on the right side of the blog main screen. The question is "Who will you miss the most, Mark DeRosa or Kerry Wood. Kerry was a member of the Cubs for a long time. It didn't make sense to me that they let him go right after he finally had a healthy, solid season. On the other hand, some people had an idea that Woody might go, but no one expected the departure of fan favorite second baseman Mark DeRosa. Also, I think the loss of Mark leaves a bigger hole than Kerry does. We have Marmol, Samardzija, and Gregg who can take over for Kerry. But the loss of DeRosa takes away a great guy in the clubhouse, a guy who can hit the ball out of the ballpark, a guy who has a solid OBP, and a guy who had great defense at 2B.

Well feel free to comment with your thoughts and please vote on our poll.

Here's a few links:
Wood introduces himself to the Indian fans.
Wood meets the press.
DeRosa on "Almost being traded" last year for Roberts.
DeRosa HR in NLDS

More Posts coming up...

Chicago Tribune Live talks Cubs, Full Recap of Sport Central

David Kaplan and company talked about the Milton Bradley trade on Chicago Tribune Live on Comcast Sports Net.

• David Haugh wonders what the Cubs are doing this off season saying that the moves make no sense.
• Haugh wonders if he will stay healthy.
• Kap says he wishes they wouldn't have traded DeRosa.
• They talked about how Bradley is a good hitter IF he stays healthy, noting that the if is a big IF.
• Hough also mentions the Cubs chemistry. Kaplan replied by saying that all of Bradley's former teammates call him a good teammate.
• Kap is the latest to report that Fukudome and Johnson will platoon in CF.
• He says that we are looking at a pay roll of about 140.
• Kaplan also says that if the new ownership approves the Cubs will go after Peavy again.
• The Cubs have trimmed off enough money in the DeRosa and Marquis trades to pay for DeRosa.
• Dave Haugh says he doesn't think that the Cubs have made progress this off season.
• Kap says Joey Gathright fits in only as a 5th outfielder.

By the way, the Marquis deal may be finalized tomorrow according to Cubs.com.

We move from Kaplan's TV show to his radio show.

• The first caller on Sports Central said that Milton Bradley is not a team player. Dave argued that the caller has no idea and says that Bradley's former teammates love him. David Kaplan said that he would call him a "hothead" but not call him "not a team player.
• Kap says the big question with him is will he stay healthy.
• The next caller asked Kap to give him a grade on Jim Hendry for his tenor as GM. The caller would give him a C.
• Dave says he could have had 4 playoffs in 6 years if the Cubs would have made it in 2004.
• The caller doesn't like the contract Jim gave Alfonso Soriano. The caller says he would love to have Manny Ramirez's bat.
• Kap says he would give Hendry a B+ saying he lowered the grade because of the playoff failure and the 2005 and 2006 seasons.
• The 3rd caller likes the Bradley signing to add flare in the clubhouse.
• The 4th caller lives in Dallas and says he never heard any complaints from any players in Texas and says he's exited about the move.
• Kap pleads for everyone to just give Milton a chance.
• They replayed the Mark DeRosa interview from Friday night. It is an awesome interview. You can read my recap of it here, or listen to the full interview here.

Next, Aaron Miles was live on the show with Kaplan. Here's what he had to say:

• Kap asked what was going through Miles's mind when he found out he was going to the Cardinals' arch rivals. Miles says he's looking forward to playing at Wrigley Field for a team that has a chance to do great things.
• Miles was told he would be considered for the second base job and says he can play lots of positions and switch hit. Aaron says at different times during year, he could be in different roles.
• Miles says that Tony LaRusa was a great manager and knew that when Aaron got non-tendered again there was a good chance he would be leaving.
• Kap asked what position he would play and where he would bat in the order if Lou left it up to him. Miles says he would play second base and like to hit in the top of the order but says he can bat anywhere and will be happy in any role.
• Dave brought up that Miles has pitched a little bit. Aaron says it's a bittersweet feeling to pitch as a position player.
• In spring of 2000 Miles came home from dinner and 2 masked gun men came in to his room and wanted his money. His teammates called the police and they arrived just in time. Miles said he was held hostage for about 30 minutes. Then he got into a struggle for the gun and got punched and bit by this masked man. The cops came in and shot him 6 times. True story, click here for the full story.
• Kap asked who in the Cardinal locker room hates the Cubs the most. Aaron said the it's probably Tony LaRusa.
• He says all the players on both sides love the rivalry but says it lives and dies with the managers.
• Miles will be at the Cubs Convention.

Ken Rosenthal from Fox Sports was the next guest on the show to talk baseball:

• Ken says he loves Milton Bradley but just wonders if he can stay healthy playing right field. He says fans are going to like his fire and his OPS.
• Rosenthal says it may be a challenge for Sweet Lou to leave Bradley alone and let him do his job.
• Bradley's primary goal is to win. He says you can say the same things about Lou that you can say about Milton Bradley, that's why some people consider it a dangerous situation.
• Kap asked how Rosenthal would handicap where the Cubs are today compared to the end of the season. Ken says he likes where they are but he understands the criticism.
• He says the main reason that the Cubs traded DeRosa is to get more left handed and be more of a balanced offense.
• Kap asked about Peavy. Rosenthal says the odds of a Peavy deal to the Cubs are about 10%.
• He thinks that the Cubs may test the market for another starting pitcher but doesn't think they will pay big money for a starter like Derrek Lowe, but if the ownership change happens, a lot of things could change.
• Rosenthal says that the AL Central is a difficult division to pick and says that the Indians with Kerry Wood and Mark DeRosa will have a chance.
• Kap notes that the other teams in the NL Central haven't been to active.
• Ken says that we should keep an eye on the Brewers. He expects them to be active in the coming weeks.
• He also thinks that the Cardinals could add a few more pitchers.

Kap took a few more calls:

• The first caller doesn't see how the Cubs are going with Miles and Fontenot as the every day second basemen. He thinks that the Cubs might have something else up their sleeve. Kap says that Fontenot will get a chance to win a job.
• The next caller asked if the door is totally closed on Jake Peavy. Kap says that the door is closing but not totally closed. The Cubs are not going to do a 6 for 1 deal.

Well, that is it for today! I'll have more updates tomorrow!

Just Keep on rooting for the Cubs!

Mark DeRosa on Sports Central, More Cubs Rumors

Last night former Cubs second baseman Mark DeRosa joined David Kaplan on WGN radio to talk about being traded to the Indians. Here's the highlights:

• DeRosa said that on one hand he's disappointed and said he didn't even know how much he was going to love Chicago when he signed.
• Mark was on the golf coarse when he got the call to say that he was traded. DeRo said that he followed the whole Peavy sage online and says he thought his time in Chicago would continue when the Peavy trade fell through.
• He said that when he saw that Jim was calling him he knew he got traded.
• Mark is exited about playing 3rd base with the Indians.
• Kap asked if DeRosa would ever come back to the Cubs if he got offered a contract. Mark sounded like he definitely would.
• He said that Lee, Lilly, Dempster, and other team mates have called him since the trade.
• Mark says he thinks he did his job for 2 years.
• Overall I would say DeRosa was very disappointed.

I'm very sad that DeRosa is leaving and even more upset after listening to Mark talk to Kap.

Well, here's other Cubs rumors for today:

• The Cubs seem set to officially sign Milton Bradley in the coming weeks.
• The Tribune says that Ryan Dempster would welcome Bradley with open arms.
• Bruce Levine expects the Jason Marquis trade to be made official on Sunday or Monday.
• Levine thinks there is an 80% chance that the Peavy deal will get done.
• Players Bruce is hearing could be involved include Wellington Castillo, Jeff Stevens, Kevin Hart, and Josh Vitters.
• Kaplan mentioned on Sports Central last night that the Cubs are interested in signing Rich Aurillia to back up 1st and 3rd base.
• The Cardinals were prepared to offer Aaron Miles about the same as what he got with the Cubs but the more sincere interest by Cub management drew him to the Cubs.

I'll keep you posted.

A look at the numbers; DeRosa, Miles, Fontenot

Let's check out the stats and see how much of a downgrade the Cubs have made at the second base position and see if Miles or Fontenot is the way to go.

Mark DeRosa:
Career: .279 BA, 69 HR, 352 RBI, .422 SLG, .348 OBP
2008: .285 BA, 21 HR, 87 RBI, .481 SLG, .376 OBP

Aaron Miles:
Career: 16 HR, 170 RBI, .289 BA, .329 OBP, .364 SLG
2008: 4 HR, 31 RBI, .317 BA, .355 OBP, .398 SLG

Mike Fontenot:
Career: .290 BA, .369 OBP, .457 SLG, 12 HR, 69 RBI
2008: 9 HR, 40 RBI, .305 BA, .395 OBP, .514 SLG

So by the numbers Fontenot look better than Miles, DeRosa is obviously a big loss and so far I think Jim Hendry's off season is a major fail, losing 2 fan favorites in Kerry Wood and Mark DeRosa. He's going to have to add 2 major players to make this a good off season.

Here's the a few Cubs rumors:

• Chico Harlan of the Washington Post believes that the Cubs will win the sweepstakes for Bradley.
• Catcher Josh Bard had signed with the Red Sox. He also had an offer from the Cubs.
• Buster Olney says the Cubs are making off season mistakes.
• Jon Heyman ranked the top 20 free agents that remain unsigned. He ranks Milton Bradley number 2 only behind Bobby Abreu. Adam Dunn was 6th and Manny Ramirez was 13th on the list.

CUBS MAKING BIG MOVES.....DEROSA TRADED!

The Cubs are making moves left and right! Here's the latest:

• The Cubs have signed switch hitting infielder Aaron Miles to a 2 year deal. Miles is 32 years old, batted .317 with 15 doubles, 4 HR, and 31 RBIs in 2008 for the Cardinals. Miles can play tons of positions. He appeared in 7 different ones last year: 85 games at second, 27 at shortstop, 11 games at 3rd, 4 in left, 1 in center and 1 in right. Miles played for the White Sox and Rockies before becoming a Cardinal in 2006.
• Bad News if you like Mark DeRosa; the Cubs have traded him to the Clevland Indians for Jeff Stevens, John Gaub, and Chris Archer. All 3 are minor league pitchers.
• Here's the stats for Stevens, Gaub, and Archer.
• The Marquis trade to the Rockies for Vizcaino is a done deal and will be announced sometime over the next few days according to sources including Bruce Levine of ESPN Radio and David Kaplan of Comcast Sports Net.
• Levine thinks that with the money the Cubs will save in the Marquis deal they will end up using on Milton Bradley and goes as far as calling it a "done deal".
• I'm also hearing the the Cubs will rework the Peavy talks using the players they got in the DeRosa deal and adding other prospects.

I don't know what to think about the DeRosa deal. I really like DeRo, but if it is what the Cubs have to deal to end up with Bradley and Peavy then that's fine. We'll just have to wait and see what happens. I expect either Fontenot or Miles will be the starting second baseman in 2009.

I'll keep you posted.

UPDATE 2:25 CT- David Kaplan says that he thinks bringing in prospects for the DeRosa is the start of the getting the Jake Peavy deal set up. He also reports that the Marquis deal is not done yet because Jason is out of the country.

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that since the Cubs have traded for 3 pitching prospects and traded away our 5th starter, the Peavy deal could be back on.

Kap had Paul Sullivan on the show to talk about the Cubs news.

• Sullivan says that he thinks it's amazing how everything is happening at once.
• Sully says it seems that Miles could move into the leadoff spot.
• He hates to see DeRosa go.
• Kap asked about Milton Bradley. Paul said that he talked to Frank Thomas and Frank said he was intense and smart and just needs to be left alone. If Bradley can stay healthy and out of trouble this could work out good. Paul is willing to give Bradley the benefit of the doubt.
• Paul says he sees no need for Rich Aurillia. He thinks Pie and Cedeno will be traded and would like to see another lefty in the bullpen.

The Cubs have a conference call coming up, so I'll keep you posted.

DeRosa in for WBC, Trivia

Mark DeRosa of the Cubs has joined team USA for the World Baseball Classic next March. The first workout for team USA will be March 2 and the Team opens up against team Canada on March 7.

Not much going on so how about a little Cubs trivia.

What Cub participated in gymnastics growing up?
Take a guess I'll have the answer tomorrow.

I'll have one last post before a take a holiday break for you tomorrow.
If we ever get any new Cubs rumors, I'll be sure to tell you.
☺

Jim Hendry on Sports Central

Cubs GM Jim Hendry visited with David Kaplan to talk about the Cubs remaining offseason plans on Sports Central on WGN Radio last night. Here's my recap:

• Jim says that the economy is taking an effect on the baseball world. He says the Cubs are fortunate the their payroll didn't go down. He says some clubs are going to take more cutbacks than others.
• Kap suggested the Cubs getting a right handed bat that hits left handers. He says the Cubs still would prefer a left handed or switch hitter.
• An email asked if the Cubs ever considered moving Soriano back to second base. Jim says that Sori will stay in left field.
• Another question asked if Hendry still sees getting another starter. Jim says that you might try to make something work with an elite guy but the Cubs aren't searching for another starter but says that the new owner might have an impact on things like this.
• Jim says the if Greg Maddox wants to work with the Cubs he can work in Chicago any time he wants, he thinks Greg will get away from the game for some time and then might get back into baseball in some way.
• Kap asked about Ryan Sandberg. Jim said that the Cubs don't get hung up on moving up the latter with coaches in the minor leagues like players do. He says Rhino's done a terrific job in Peoria for 2 years and in the Arizona Fall League. He thinks that Sandberg can be a big league coach some day.
• Kap asked for thought about Kerry Wood. Jim think Kerry ended up in a great place and says that he will root for Woody except when he plays the Cubs for the rest of his career.
• Hendry said that Gathright was a real good sign that gains the Cubs speed and depth. Jim wants to add one more left handed hitting outfielder to the mix out there.
• Jim says that he likes Adam Dunn and says that the situation is his defense. He wouldn't rule a terrific hitter off the Cubs list though.
• Kap asked about DeRosa. Hendry said that he is just trying to make the Cubs better and sometimes you might have to consider trading someone you really like.

Cubs on the Radio

Mark DeRosa was on the Mac, Jurko, and Harry show yesterday on ESPN 1000. Here's what he had to say;

• Mark says that he's having a great off season in Atlanta working out and enjoying golf.
• DeRosa said he was in Disney World as a Cubs event with Ramirez and Soto during the Peavy rumors that he was involved in so it took his mind off it.
• DeRosa said that the Cubs had one of those lineups where it didn't matter where you were hitting because they were so deep.
• Mark hasn't gotten his wife anything for Christmas yet. DeRosa doesn't know what to get a women who has everything. He says Christmas is more about their daughter in the DeRosa house.
• DeRosa said that the pitcher is the most selfish guy on the baseball team out of any position.
• Mark thinks he will be playing every day at second base in 2009.

On Wednesday, David Kaplan was joined by former Cub Mikey Morandini on Sports Central:

• Mikey talked about being the head coach of Valparaiso High School and Mikey said he is having a blast with coaching.
• Morandini said he could see himself becoming a minor league coach some day.
• Kap and Mikey both think Rhino could be the guy to replace Lou as Cubs manager.
• Mikey would love to be a big league coach some day.
• Morandini said that he collects baseballs.
• Kap says Mikey was always one of the most fun guys to deal with.
• Morandini says that he can't help but follow the Cubs and says they're one of the elite ball clubs.
• He is looking forward to the Cubs Caravan.
• Mikey is going to miss Kerry Wood when the season starts, and says he can tell you every out of the 20 strikeout game.
• The toughest pitchers he every faced: Randy Johnson and Mariano Rivera.

Sandberg Promoted to AA, other Minor League coaching changes, and Cubs Rumors

The Cubs announced their minor league coaching changes for next season today. Hall of Famer Ryan Sandberg, who has been the manager of the Peoria Chiefs of low A ball the past 2 seasons will be managing for the AA Tennessee Smokies is 2009. Quotes from Sanberg

• "If you'd asked me in the middle of my career, I would've said, 'No chance.'"
• "I guess you never know in this game. Once I was out of the game, I felt baseball was all I knew. Now, being back in it in this capacity, it's the next best thing to playing it."
• "First things first is to learn along the way."
• "That's how I've taken this thing. I want to be good at it. Like the players, I hope to one day be at the Major League level. That's all of our goals. I'm not any different than the players. I look at this as one more opportunity to learn."
• " It (coaching in the Arizona Fall League) was totally different, and different in a good way. It was a very good experience because these players were anywhere from going into AA to going into AAA, and I think some of these guys could actually get into the Major League next year."
• "All they needed was some little thing or help with the mental side of the game. If was a very good 7 weeks. I think that will help me going into this year and AA.

Dennis Lewallyn joins Sandberg's staff as pitching coach and Dennis Lewallyn is his hitting coach. Bobby Dickerson will be the new manager for AAA Iowa replacing Pat Listach who is now the Washington Nationals' 3rd base coach. Dickerson managed at Tennessee for 4 seasons and was the infield coordinator for Iowa the past 3 seasons. Mike Mason will return as the Iowa Cubs' pitching coach. Von Joshua returns for his 4th year as the hitting coach. Former Cub Jody Davis will be the minor league catching coordinator. Buddy Bailey will take over for Davis as the manager of the Daytona Cubs. The Daytona pitching coach is Tom Pratt and Richie Zisk will be in his 4th season as the Cubs hitting coach. Marty Pevey will replace Sandberg as the manager of the Peoria Chiefs. Rich Bobard will return as the Chiefs hitting coach and Barbaro Garbey will be the pitching coach. Casey Kopitzke will manage the Class A Short Season Boise Hawks next year. He spent 8 years in the Cubs organization as a player. David Rosario will be the pitching coach and Desi Wilson will be the hitting coach. Juan Cabreja begins his first season as manager of the Mesa Cubs.

And now here's the latest Cubs Rumors:

• Derek Lowe will likely go to the highest bidder. The Cubs are part of the long list of teams who are interested in Lowe.
• Felis Pie's days as a Cub are more that numbered according to the Sun Times.
• Jim Hendry said he's been approached from clubs about trades since returning form the winter meetings late last week. The Cubs have had talks about at least the framework of a potential deal. (for Milton Bradley)
• According to Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, the Twins still have hope that they can acquire Mark DeRosa.
• Gordan Wittnmyer also expects Felix Pie to be traded because for the Gathright signing.
• The Pirates, Orioles, and Marlins could be good fits for Felix Pie.

I'll keep you posted.

Gordan Wittnemyer talks with Memelo

Gordan Wittnemyer of the Chicago Sun Times joined Jim Memelo on Sports Central tonight to talk about the latest baseball news. Here's the recap:

• Gordan says that he has no problem with what Hendry said about Peavy not being a priority. The Cubs have depth with Marshall and Samarzija that could come into the rotation if there is an injury.
• Wittnemyer said the unbalanced lineup should be the priority.
• Jim asked if Marquis would be traded. Gordan says that he doesn't expect Marquis to be in camp next year, but he wouldn't be shocked. He says the Cubs could make a run at Randy Johnson.
• He said that Milton Bradley is the Cubs clear number 1 option for right field. Gordan says that with Ibanez off the table he would be surprised if a Bradley deal doesn't happen soon.
• Gordan says Bradley will give him something to write about with his running mouth. He says it'd be nice to see another guy like Z out there who wears his emotions on his sleeve.
• He said he'd be interest to know how DeRosa feels about being involved in the Peavy deal this year, after the Brian Roberts talk that would have took his position last season.
• Gordan and Jim both seem to think that Hendry made the right call on not trading for Peavy because the Cubs would have lost too many important pieces.

Update: Peavy Talk

A quick update on Peavy-
MLB.com's Corey Brock says that Padres GM Kevin Towers told him that we should know one way or the other on the Peavy trade by the end of the meetings. Towers thinks a deal will take a 4th team. DeRosa and Marquis could be hand ups, especially Jason's contract. Kevin Hart, Josh Vitters, and Felix Pie are some of the names Corey Brock mentioned.

Accourding to Cubs.com a possible 3 team deal has been proposed that would send the following players to the following teams.
Phillies Get: DeRosa
Padres Get: Marquis, Jason Donald, and either J.A. Happ or Carlos Carrasco, Pie, and Vitters
Cubs Get: Peavy

Also the Cubs could loose Donald Veal in the Rule 5 Draft Tomorrow. I'll keep you posted.