Countdown to the Cubs Convention: 5 days

The 27th annual Cubs Convention is this week! Today we continue our coverage leading up to the big weekend with a few additional details on the convention.

Click here for the list of attendees and sessions that we posted last week. As of now, there are a few updates to that list to pass along. Obviously Andrew Cashner, who was traded San Diego on Friday, can be scratched. First base prospect Anthony Rizzo, who came to the Cubs in that deal, has tweeted that he will be attending to Convention. Hall of Famers Fergie Jenkins and Ernie Banks were left off our original list, but both are expected to make their annual appearance.

Three players whose Cubs Convention status is up in the air are Matt Garza, Alfonso Soriano and Kerry Wood. Garza's absence from the list of attendees is especially surprising. It may indicate that he may no longer be with the Cubs come Friday. There are many rumors that Wood returning to the Cubs is no sure thing. If he re-signs by the end of the week, he is expected to attend.

Paul Sullivan has written two interesting articles previewing this Convention. To check them out click here and here. In part that to Sullivan, we now know the times of several of the sessions for Saturday, but I will post the full schedule with times at some point this week.

The full Cubs Caravan slate is now available on Cubs.com. Jeff Beliveau, Joe Bohringer, Chris Bosio, Randy Bush, Tony Campana, Chris Carpenter, Casey Coleman, Jed Hoyer, Brett Jackson, Dave McKay, Jason McLeod, Keith Moreland, Dave Otto, Jamie Quirk, Shiraz Rehman, James Russell, Dale Sveum, Matt Szczur, Josh Vitters, Randy Wells, Darwin Barney, David DeJesus, Theo Epstein, Rudy Jaramillo, Len Kasper and Leter Strode are all schedule to participate in one or both days of the Caravan.

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

Cubs Caravan Week Events

Yesterday we took our first look at the 2012 Cubs Convention here on Everything Cubs Blog. We will continue to have full coverage as we lead up to next weekend. We can start to piece together the list of attendees for the Convention based on those that will be attending the Cubs Caravan next week.

On a side note, be sure to vote on our new poll up on the right sidebar. We ask what the biggest need is for the 2012 Chicago Cubs. Feel free to add your thoughts to our comments section as well.

The Cubs Caravan is set for next weekend. Cubs players, front offices members, broadcasters and coaches will visit schools in the Chicagoland area once again this season. The full list of schools that the Caravan, which takes place on Wednesday and Thursday of next week, will be stopping at has not yet been announced.

However, we do know that the Caravan will include the fifth annual luncheon on Wednesday (Jan. 11) from 11am to 1pm at Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse. Tickets for the event are available for $150. Theo Epstein, Jed Hoyer and Jason McLeod will all be a part of the luncheon, which will be hosted by Cubs TV broadcaster Len Kasper.

On Thursday night (Jan. 12), The Ryan and Jenny Dempster FAmily Foundation is hosting an event at D'Agostino's Pizza and Pub. The event will last from 6:00 to 10:00 with the price of adult tickets set at $100. Dempster continues his efforts to strike out 22q. Kerry Wood, Ted Lilly, Koyie Hill, Andrew Cashner and Justin Berg all attended last year.

Friday of next week will feature the Wood Family Foundation Winter Warm-up at Harry Caray's Tavern in Navy Pier. This event will last from 8:30 to 11:30, so many players will head there after the opening ceremonies of the Cubs Convention that evening. Theo Epstein, Ryan Dempster, Marlon Byrd, Matt Garza, Andrew Cashner, Geovany Soto, Starlin Castro, Randy Wells, Welington Castillo, Darwin Barney, James Russell, Ernie Banks and Rick Sutcliffe are all expected to attend Wood's charity event. I'd expect that full list to take part in the Convention as well.

The Cubs Caravan will also make its annual stop in Peoria, where Tony Campana, Chris Carpenter, Brett Jackson, Josh Vitters, Matt Szczur and Casey Colemen will all be featured. Again, expect all of those young players at the Convention next week. Chris Bosio (pitching coach), Dave McKay (first base coach) and Jamie Quirk will be at the Peoria Chiefs fan fest event as well. Tickets, which include autographs, photos and food, are $15 with doors opening at 3:30 next Thursday.

Brian Noonan and David Kaplan indicated at the end of their Cubs Corner broadcast today that they will be hosting their annual Friday night WGN Sports Night show from the Convention.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted as we countdown to Cubs Convention Weekend!

"The Unofficial Opening Day" is a Day Away!

For the third straight year, Everything Cubs blog will have the Cubs Convention covered with posts live from the event all weekend long. It's by far the best weekend of the winter! Get ready Cubs fans, Cubs Convention 2011 is on the way!

For those of you not going to the Convention, in addition to checking back for updates each day right here on this site, you can get your Cubs fix on WGN Radio. Sports Night with Judd Sirott and Brian Noonan will be broadcasting live on Friday night. Sports Central with David Kaplan and Jim Memelo starts at at 4:00.

Here are some notes from day two of the Cubs Caravan and more:

• Today tour 1 of the Cubs Caravan stopped at Lincoln Library in Springfield and O'Brien Field for the Peoria Chiefs fanfest.
• Tour 2 went to Augustus H. Burley High School, St. Luke Academy, Harriet Beecher Stowe School and USO of Illinois.
• Carrie Muskat wrote about the Cubs lead-off situation. She expexts to see Blake DeWitt, Jeff Baker and Kosuke all get ABs there.
• Mike Quade said yesterday that he always views the previous year's division champs as the favorites going into the season. In this case, Mike thinks the Reds are the team to beat.
• Dave Otto, Gary Matthews, Keith Moreland and Doug Glanville are the four guys in the mix for the open spot in the Cubs' radio booth.
• Gordon Wittenmyer provided another update on the opening day starter's race. It is still between Garza, Zambrano and Dempster.
• Kerry Wood is still thinking about 2003. He also mentioned in his chat with Fred Mitchell that he is glad to be home.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted from the Convention all weekend long!

Midweek Quick Hits as the Cubs Caravan Gets Underway

There's a lot going on in the world of the Chicago Cubs. The Cubs Convention is just two days away! Let's catchup on the latest notes:

• The Cubs Caravan started today. Tour one stopped at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse (Cubs Caravan Luncheon) and Cleveland Elementary School. Tour two also went to the luncheon as well as Lake View High School, Mt. Carmel Academy, Prospect High School and the Boys & Girls Club of Rockford.
• Mike Quade made his return to his Prospect High School, where he attended.
• Bruce Miles reports that Andrew Cashner wants to start. Add another name to the rotation mix, as James Russell is expected to get a shot to stretch out in the spring.
• Quade said that Matt Garza is in the mix for the opening day assignment along with Dempster and Zambrano.
• Miles also reports that the Cubs are not counting on Angel Guzman at all. They will see how he progresses in Spring Training but will not rush it.
• If you missed it earlier, the Cubs have signed Reed Johnson to a minor league contract and avoided arbitration with Koyie Hill.
• Johnson is expected to compete with Fernando Perez for the fifth outfield spot.
• Paul Sullivan writes that Quade hasn't committed to a lead-off man, but he has said that Blake DeWitt and Jeff Baker are in the mix.
• The report date for pitchers and catchers is set for February 13 with the first workout taking place the following day. The first full squad workout is set for February 19.
• There was a report from 670 the score today that Kerry Wood's contract has a clause to become the team's radio broadcaster after his retirement in it. The Cubs have denied the report and Wood told David Kaplan that he has no interest in broadcasting.
• According to multiple reports, the Cubs new radio broadcaster will not be named this weekend. The station and the team will wait to make the announcement until close to the first broadcast of the spring.
• The full schedule for the Cubs Convention has been released.
• Be sure to vote on our new poll up on the right sidebar!

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

An Early Look at the Cubs Convention

The 26th annual Cubs Convention is only ten days away! A full list of attendees will probably be announced next weekend with a schedule for sessions released next week. Plans include honoring Ron Santo and welcoming back Kerry Wood. For now, here is the partial list of attendees from Cubs.com and Vineline!

• Kerry Wood
• Carlos Pena
• Greg Maddux
• Carlos Zambrano
• Aramis Ramirez
• Carlos Marmol
• Marlon Byrd
• Mike Quade
• Starlin Castro
• Tyler Colvin
• Chris Archer
• Jay Jackson
• DJ LeMahieu
• Chris Carpenter

As always, the annual Cubs Caravan will tour the Chicagoland area the week leading up to the Convention. Members of the Cubs organization will tour schools, hospitals and make other stops January 12 and 13. Here is the full list of attendees for the Caravan. Usually most of these guys are also at the Convention.

• Justin Berg
• Bob Brenly
• Randy Bush
• Andrew Cashner
• Ivan DeJesus
• Bob Dernier
• Blake DeWitt
• Pat Hughes
• Len Kasper
• Dave Keller
• Sean Marshall
• Dave Otto
• Mike Quade
• Mark Riggins
• James Russell
• Lester Strode
• Randy Wells
• Carlos Zambrano

The annual Cubs Caravan Luncheon will take place at Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse next Wednesday and will feature Mike Quade among other players and coaches.

More on the Convention and the Caravan next week!

Quick Hits Before the Holidays: Searching for Pat's Partner, Kap's New Show, The Cubs Convention & More

Here's the latest Cubs news and notes:

• Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune says that the field for the Cubs radio analyst is wide open. Former Cubs are preferred but others will be considered.
• The search for Pat's new partner will be a joint effort between the radio station and the Cubs.
• Lou Piniella has no plans of going back into broadcasting. Another guy unlikely to take over for Santo is ex-Cubs broadcaster Steve Stone, who is now with the White Sox.
• Click here for a breakdown of candidates and be sure to vote on our new poll on the right sidebar.
• Pat Hughes' input will be considered but he will not have the final say. The station is hoping to have a decision by the Cubs Convention next month.
• Speaking of the Cubs Convention, a partial list of attendees has already been released. Kerry Wood will make his return while Carlos Pena is welcomed to the Cubs.
• Mike Quade will be there for his first Convention as the skipper and Aramis Ramirez is scheduled to make his first visit to the midwinter gathering.
• Other guys expected to return include Carlos Zambrano, Carlos Marmol, Starlin Castro, Tyler Colvin and Marlon Byrd.
• Chris Archer, Jay Jackson, DJ LeMahieu and Chris Carpenter will all attend and take part in the minor league session on Sunday.
• The 2011 Cubs Caravan luncheon is set for Jan. 12. Mike Quade, Andrew Cashner, Koyie Hill, Sean Marshall, Randy Wells and James Russell will all be at the luncheon, which is emceed by Len Kasper.
• WGN Radio's weeknight sports show will return to the airwaves tonight. Sports Central received the boot last April, but now David Kaplan returns with "Sports Night" when the Hawks and Cubs don't play. The show will be three full hours (7:00-10:00 CT).
• Len Kasper will be one of the rotating cast of co-hosts, a group which also includes Glen Kozlowski, David Haugh, Brian Noonan, Dave Eanet and Phil Rogers. The show will focus on the Hawks, Cubs and Northwestern since they all play their games on WGN-720. Jim Hendry and Mike Quade will be frequent guests on the program.
• The Cubs signed former Astros farmhand Polin Trinidad, a left handed pitcher.
• The team is still looking for pitching. They are still in the mix for Brandon Webb and Matt Garza.
• Pat Hughes was given a five year contract extension by WGN Radio through 2015.
• David Kaplan recently inked a new contract with Comcast Sports Net that includes hosting duties on the Cubs pre- and postgame shows.

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

Cub Pre-Convention Roundup: Non Roster Guys, The Caravan, the Bullpen, and More

Non Roster Invites
The full list of Chicago Cubs non roster invites to Spring Training was released today. In addition to everyone on the 40 man roster, to following prospects will be in camp to try to impress manager Lou Piniella and his staff:

• Josh Vitters, 3B
• Andrew Cashner, RHP
• Brett Jackson, OF
• J.R. Mathes, LHP
• James Russell, LHP
• Casey Coleman, RHP
• Thomas Diamond, RHP
• Jeff Kennard, RHP
• Vince Perkins, RHP
• Robinson Chirinos, C
• Steve Clevenger, C
• Blake Lalli, C/1B
• Chris Robinson, C
• Darwin Barney, SS
• Matt Camp, INF/OF
• Starlin Castro, SS
• Bryan LaHair, 1B
• Bobby Scales, 2B/3B
• Brad Snyder, OF

Cubs Caravan Updates

The Cubs Caravan got underway today. Carrie Muskat provided us with some updated, include the info that Lou Piniella expects the Cubs to win the division. The team is still looking for a veteran right handed reliever and a 4th outfielder, but outside of that Lou feels the Cubs are "pretty set to go". Today Caravan stops included 4 schools for the Cubs Spotlight on Ready, 1 Boys & Girls clubs for the P.L.A.Y. program, a hospital visit, and the sold out Cubs Care Luncheon. Bruce Miles was at Harry Caray's for the lunch, and blogged on it afterwards. Randy Bush, Cubs assistant GM, told Miles that the Cubs haven't ruled out resigning Reed Johnson. I'll have more on the caravan as it continues tomorrow!

Coaching Swap

According to Cubs.com, Ivan DeJesus will serve as the Cubs first base coach in 2010. Matt Sinatro, who was the first base coach, will fill the role that DeJesus previously held as an assistant to Lou Piniella. Matt will still work with Cub catcher, but now will also be involved with the advance scouting reports.

Lilly Injury Update

Cubs lefty Ted Lilly could throw while in Chicago. Mark O'Neal checked up on Ted recently and Lary Rothschild hopes to see him pitch while they are in town for the Convention.

Updates from the Owners Meetings

According to Bruce Levine, the Cubs will decide on either Naples or Mesa next week. They are looking a 3 sites in Florida and two in Naples. Levine chatted with Crane Kenney about the situation. Jim Hendry told Bruce that his time was well spent at the meetings, and 27 of the 30 GMs were there. Hendry planned to talk to some teams about possible moves tonight.

Jason Bourgeois in Cubbie Blue?

Our friends over at Hot Stove Cubbies have a source that tells them that the Cubs are ready to acquire Jason Bourgeois from the Astros. This was posted at 11:30 this morning, and so far we have heard nothing from big league sources. If nothing else, something to keep an eye on.

Calero Still on Cubs' Radar, Bell Probably Staying Put

Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports reports that the Cubs are among the teams that have checked on Kiko Calero. The interest is "contingent" on how confident they are in the health of his shoulder. The Cubs are committed to Marmol as their closer, but would like to add another late inning guy. Today, I chatted with former Cubs broadcaster Andy Masur right here on Everything Cubs Blog. One of the many interesting things Andy told me was that he doesn't see the Padres moving Heath Bell this off season, but maybe at the trade deadline. While Masur thinks it would be "frustrating" for Bell to have to share time with Marmol as Cubs' closer, Heath could be an option in July if Marmol struggles in his new role in the first half. I would encourage everyone to click the link above and check out the full Q&A!

The Cubs Convention is the day after tomorrow!

I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always!

Countdown to the Cubs Convention: 8 Days

Yesterday, it was announced the former Cub great Andre Dawson will be going into the Hall of Fame. Shortly after, the Cubs released (via Muskat's blog) the Dawson will be at the Cubs Convention!

I'm looking forward to seeing The Hawk at the Hilton next weekend. I'm sure he'll be getting thunderous applause, he may even surpass Ron Santo for the loudest cheer when introduced at the Opening Ceremonies (well, maybe not, but both will be loud.)

They'll probably have a special session to honor Dawson.

Also released yesterday was some info on two events that are always associated with the Convention: the Cubs Caravan and the Len & Bob Bash.

The Cubs have announced the list of attendees for the caravan. Click here for the schedule of events which was released a few weeks back. Here are the list of Cubs that will be on the tour with what tour they're on and what day(s) they'll be on.

January 13 Group One:

• Lou Piniella (A.M. only)
• Rudy Jaramillo
• Bob Brenly (A.M. only)
• Oneri Fleita
• Alan Trammell
• Koyie Hill
• Micah Hoffpauir
• Andres Blanco
• James Adduci
• Welington Castillo
• Brett Jackson
• Elio Benitez
• Hector Febregas

January 13 Group Two:

• Randy Bush
• Larry Rothschild
• Mike Quade
• Lester Strode
• Jeff Samardzija
• Randy Wells
• Justin Berg
• Esmalin Caridad
• Andrew Cashner
• Len Kasper

January 14 Group One:

• Bush
• Fleita
• Jaramillo
• Quade
• Strode
• Hill
• Hoffpauir
• Wells
• Berg
• Blanco
• Adduci
• Cashner
• Dave Otto

January 14 Group 2:

• Piniella (A.M. only)
• Rothschild
• Trammell
• Ryan Dempster
• Tom Gorzelanny
• Jeff Gray
• Esmalin Caridad
• Welington Castillo
• Brett Jackson
• Pat Hughes

Since the are on going on the Caravan, I would expect Gray, Gorzelanny, Dempster, Wells, Hoffpauir, Hill, Samardzija, Blanco, Caridad, the coaches, the broadcasters, the front office people listed, and a few of the minor leaguers listed to go to the Convention. Last year, I don't think there was anyone who went on the Caravan but didn't go on the Convention.

Caravan info link from Cubs.com.

Tickets are still available for the January 14 Len & Bob Bash at the House of Blues in Chicago.

I full list and schedule for the Convention should be coming out any day know. As soon as I hear something, I'll post it. Unless their is other news to report, our series on the Sports Central segment will be concluded with tomorrow's post.

More posts to come soon! I'll have more on Dawson, the latest from the Cubs rumor will, and more posted tonight & tomorrow.

Cubs Caravan Info, Bruce Levine Chat, and More

The Cubs Caravan tour is coming up! The stops for each tour have been announced!

Tour 1
Day 1 (Wednesday January 13):

• Hospital Visits- Northwestern Hospital
• Cubs Care Luncheon (sold out)- Harry Caray's Restaurant
• Cubs Spotlight on Reading- De Duprey/Von Humboldt Schools
• P.L.A.Y. Program

Day 2 (Thursday January 14):

• Cubs Spotlight on Reading: Lincoln Library & Museum
• Peoria Chiefs Fan Fest- O'Brien Field/River Plex

Tour 2

Day 1 (Wednesday January 13):

• Cubs Spotlight on Reading- Alexander Hamilton Elementary
• Cubs Spotlight on Reading- Uplift Community School
• Cubs Care Luncheon (tickets sold out)- Harry Caray's Restaurant
• Cubs Spotlight on Reading- Crispus Attucks Elementary School
• P.L.A.Y Program- Northwestern Boys & Girls Club Gary, IN

Day 2 (Thursday January 14):

• Cubs Spotlight on Reading- James Blaine Elementary School
• Cubs Spotlight on Reading- Hawthorne Scholastic Academy
• Cubs Spotlight on Reading & P.L.A.Y. Program Waukegan School District
• Private Event at the Naval Training Center- HUSO Illisnois

The participants in the caravan have not yet been announced for this year, but I'll post them on this site as soon as they are. Last year Tour 1 featured Lou Piniella, Bob Brenly, Jim Hendry, Len Kasper, Dave Otto, Oneri Fleita, Matt Sinatro, Lester Strode, Ivan DeJesus, Darwin Barney, Jeff Samardzija, Kevin Hart, Neal Cotts, Micah Hoffpauir, Kevin Gregg, Felix Pie and Joey Gathright; while Randy Bush, Pat Hughes, Cory Provus, Oneri Fleita, Larry Rothschild, Alan Trammell, Mike Quade, Gerald Perry, Brandon Guyer, Kevin Hart, Carlos Marmol, Kevin Gregg, Jeff Samardzija, and Sean Marshall were on Tour 2 a year ago.

That week will be a busy one for the Chicago Cubs because Len Kasper and Bob Brenly will be hosting their 4th annual Len and Bob bash, which will be Thursday night. Len and Bob will "reprise their role as honorary rock stars" this year for a few songs, after taking a year of from performing last year. All proceeds benefit Chicago Cubs Charities.

In addition, the Cubs will have the Cubs Convention which starts on Friday (January 15) and runs through Sunday at the Hilton Chicago. The annual gathering of Cubs fans is the highlight of the offseason for any big Cub fan who attends.

Some more Cubs stuff going around tonight:

• According to Nationals beat write Bill Ladson, Matt Capps will sign with either the Cubs or Washington. He is expected to make his decision tomorrow (Wednesday) night.
• The Royals signed Brian Anderson today. Scott Merkin says the Cubs were also interested in Anderson.
• We've heard the past few days the a four team trade that would have sent Bradley to Tampa Bay fell through before the Cubs shipped Milton to Seattle. The Cubs would have gotten Pat Burrell and Luis Castillo, and the Angels would have sent Gary Matthews Jr. to New York.
• The New York Yankees have sent outfielder Melky Cabrera, who the Cubs had interest in, to the Braves for Javier Vazquez. The Cubs have lost out on yet another outfielder: Granderson, Cameron, and now Cabrera. Marlon Byrd and Rick Ankiel are now their best bets.
• Chip Caray will return to the Braves broadcast booth. The former Cub broadcaster was recently sent packing from TBS.
• Former Cub pitcher Jason Marquis has signed with the Washington Nationals.
• The Cubs Reporter reviews the 2001 Cubs season.
• John Grabow wants Capps on the North Side.
• An MLB.com Q&A with Aramis Ramirez

Carrie Muskat had her Cubs Inbox earlier this week:

• Reed Johnson could still come back to the Cubs, but it depends on who Jim Hendry is able to acquire.
• Kosuke is an excellent right fielder and an average center field, so the Cubs are looking to get stronger up the middle by moving him to right.
• Marlon Byrd and Scott Podsednik are both option for the Cubs, and it may come down to which player fits better on the payroll.
• Starlin Castro is not the far away from the big leagues.
• The Cubs feel that a combination of Mike Fontenot, Jeff Baker, and Andres Blanco will do the job at second base.
• The core of the team that won 97 games is still in place. The Cubs are depending on better performances from Soriano, Fontenot, Zambrano, and Soto.
• Carrie thinks it could be Double-A Tennessee's turn to play at Wrigley Field.

Bruce Levine chatted Chicago Baseball today. Here's what he had to say:

• Johnny Damon is looking for at least $11-12 million per season on a multi year year deal right now. That isn't going to work for the Cubs, but if his demands become more realistic the Cubs may listen.
• Jeff Baker probably won't be the Opening Day starter at second base unless to opponent is a strong left handed pitcher.
• The Cubs rotation is solid. Right now, whether Randy Wells is a 15-game winner or a 9-game winner is the question.
• Look for Starlin Castro mid to late season, depending on whether or not the Cubs are competing.
• The Cubs are looking at rehabs like Kelvim Escbar and Ben Sheets.
• The North Siders may not be able to afford Aroldis Chapman.
• Levine thinks the Cubs have listened on Kerry Wood trade ideas from Cleveland, but "that ship has sailed".
• Look for the Cubs to be very active over the next 10 days (don't we always hear that?). They could sign Capps sometime Wednesday.
• The Cubs feel good about Marlon Byrd, and they are seriously considering signing him. Rudy Jaramillo worked with Byrd in Texas.
• Carlos Silva will be given every chance with the Cubs, including in the bullpen.
• First and foremost the Cubs are looking at CF and the bullpen. After that, they may look for bench help. Reed Johnson could be brought back to solidify the bench.
• Hendry may sign both Capps and Byrd. The organization definitely has enough money for both of them.
• When asked about Carlos Zambrano trade talk, Levine said two word, "It's over."
• Jim Hendry has made mistakes, but it's time to move on.
• The Cubs like Orlando Hudson, but he's not their first priority right now.
• Jaramillo and Soriano worked very well together with the Rangers.
• "Look for Jim Hendry to bee extremely aggressive, even during the holidays." Interesting- maybe we'll get a big Christams Present from Hendry.
• Jim is still looking at some veteran pitchers. A guy like Jose Contreras might be considered.
• Who knows what Lou Piniella will do in Spring Training. Once he sees Starlin Castro's talent, he may end up being our Opening Day short stop. You never know.
• The Cubs would love to trade Kosuke, but there's not much of a market for him.
• Josh Vitters is going to hit. However, he is not a finished product at third base. He may end up at first.
• The Ricketts family really likes Ryne Sandberg, but ideally the GM names the manager. Piniella's contract expires after 2010.
• Bruce expects Geovany Soto to return as a better conditioned athlete when he reports to Mesa in mid-February.

Len Kasper joined the Danny Mac show today on WSCR 670 The Score:

• Len thinks it's possible that Milton Bradley could have a good season in Seattle.
• The "other stuff" besides Bradley's play on the field is what got him sent packing.
• Kasper has no idea how Carlos Silva could help this team.
• Carlos throws strikes, but he gives up a lot of hits.
• Silva will get a chance because Lilly will start the year on the DL.
• Milton was baffled as to why writers wanted to talk to him so much. He didn't understand that he would be in the spotlight no matter what. For whatever reason, Bradley doesn't like the spotlight.
• Len called Bradley an independent guy, a loner, and very smart and sensitive.
• Milton is not a good fit for a big market like Chicago.
• Kasper is 99.9% sure that Carlos Zambrano isn't going anywhere. He's the Cubs number 1 starter, Ted Lilly has gone down, and Big Z had a better ERA in 2009 than '07 and '08.
• Winning the Cy Young may never happen for Zambrano, but if he stays in Chicago his whole career, he could become the greatest Cub starter in terms of longevity and wins since Fergie Jenkins.
• The NL Central is 100% up for grabs. It doesn't take much to get back to the top of this division for the Cubs.

That's it for now, I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always as the Cubs could be making a move just before the holidays!

Cubs Roundup: Capps, Cameron, Santo, and More

Breaking News: Mike Cameron has agreed to a deal with the Boston Red Sox. Scratch him off the Cubs shopping list.

Capps Wants to Close
We heard yesterday that the Cubs were interested in non-tendered reliever Matt Capps. Capps was a closer with the Pirates, and according to MASNsports.com "the opportunity to close" is going to be a major factor in Matt's decision as to who to sign with. Capps has 8 or 9 teams outside of the Cubs interested in his services.

Cameron Update
Do to focusing on the Milton Bradley situation, the Cubs may have lost out on another one of their outfielder targets. Mike Cameron, who the Cubs have been interested all winter, is in "serious talks" with the Boston Red Sox. Jerry Crasnik says that they have made "significant progress" towards a 2 year deal.

Santo Returns to Cubs Radio
Cubs legend and should-be Hall of Famer Ron Santo will be back in the Cubs radio booth for the next 3 years. Today he signed a new deal that lasts through 2012. Ronny and his partner Pat Hughes have been a fixture on Cubs radio since 1995. Pat is signed through 2010 and is expected to return after that. The contract allows for Ronny to take certain road trips off due to his health conditions. Santo is looking forward to the Cubs Convention in January.

Naples Update
Naples, Florida is still trying to sell it's pitch to get Cubs Spring Training. Their new effort is to get the Collier County community involved. Muskat has said that an announcement is expected next month. The Cubs may still be leaning towards Mesa, but Phil Rodgers seems to think that the Cubs are going to announce that they will spend future springs in Mesa.

Cubs Luncheon
The Chicago Cubs will host their third annual Cubs Caravan luncheon on January 13 at Harry Caray's restaurant in downtown Chicago. The luncheon gives fans to get a chance to get to know the Cubs. The space is limited to 120 guests. Lou Piniella will headline the event. The rest of the list of people that will be on the Caravan has not yet been released. There will be more stops on the week long Caravan, including several more events open to the public. I will let you know as soon as I hear anything more about the Caravan.

Fossum to Japan
Casey Fossum, a left handed pitcher who spent time in the Cubs' organization this season, has signed a one year $600,000 contract to play for the Hanshin Tigers in Japan next season. Fossum is 40-53 with a 5.45 ERA in his big league career. He had signed with the Cubs this season after opting out of a contract with the Yankees. Fossum went 6-3 with a 3.88 ERA for AAA Iowa in 12 games this year.

Notes from Carrie Muskat's Inbox

• The Cubs will head into Spring Training with 8 pitchers for 5 spots: Michael Parisi, Ted Lilly, Carlos Zambrano, Ryan Dempster, Randy Wells, Sean Marshall, Jeff Samardzija, and Tom Gorzelanny.
• Carrie thinks that drafting Parisi in the Rule 5 Draft helped give them more insurance for the rotation with Lilly injured.
• The Cubs new more about Harden's health than any other team, so they decided to let him go.
• Muskat listed Rick Ankiel, Marlon Byrd, Mike Cameron, and Scott Podsednik as possible additions to the Cub outfield.
• Ryan Theriot is the leading candidate for the lead-off job.
• The easier travel in AZ could be key factor in the Spring Training decision.
• Thomas Diamond will get an invite to Spring Training.
• Chris Robinson isn't quite ready for the big leagues, so the Cubs weren't worried about losing him in the Rule 5 Draft.

Pat Hughes on WGN Radio with David Kaplan

• It's season number 15 for Pat and Ron coming up next year.
• Pat's first interview on WGN was with Kap 15 years ago.
• Hughes can't believe it's been 14 years.
• Ronny and Cub fans everywhere always believe that next season will be a special year. Pat "doesn't think there's any other way to approach it".
• The Cubs have been a good team for the better part of the decade, so that gives the Cubs' fans reason to believe.
• 2009 was not a disaster, it was a winning season. It was disappointing because they did not win the division, but with all the things that went wrong it was really not that bad of a year.
• Pat hopes, thinks, and feels that this will be a solid team again.
• A lot can happen between now and Opening Day, but he doesn't think the Cardinals are going to be as strong next season.
• Hughes has a lot of fun with his Baseball Voices CDs. He was surprised that a lot of people enjoyed the CDs. They make a good holiday gift: www.baseballvoices.com is the website. There are 2 new ones: Milo Hamilton and Dave Niehaus.
• There is so much time to fill on the baseball broadcast, that you have a chance to have some fun. Pat says that separates broadcasting baseball from other sports.
• Hughes doesn't take for granted working with some great announcers over his career.

A few more notes from Sports Central:

When asked about Starlin Castro, Kaplan said that there are no untouchable prospects in the Cubs organization, end of story. David doesn't see any room in the budget to add a starting pitcher. The Cubs have not contacted Mark DeRosa this offseason. Castro could be there to play short stop in late 2010, early 2011.

Ron Santo on Chicago Tribune Live with Kaplan

• Santo's doing very well. Life is good, and it's always nice for him to go out and spend the winter in Arizona with his family after a tough season.
• Ron thinks that the whole Bradley thing never worked because "Bradley never made it work". He was very surprised in Milton's year.
• Ronny feels that if the Cubs win this coming year, Lou will stay on. Piniella loves Chicago, the Cubs, the fans, and he's a winner.
• If it wasn't for Lou, Ronny doesn't think the Cubs would have ended up in second place.
• Whoever plays for Piniella moves it up a notch.
• Santo hopes the Cubs stay in Arizona because the travel is so much easier. Players like to go where the cities are closer together.

Kaplan doesn't see any way the Cubs move to Florida. He would be stunned if they moved. David Schuster from 670 the Score says that he wouldn't be stunned, because "money makes the world go around, and if they feel they can make more money in Florida, that's where they'll go." If the Ricketts have a personal preference from Florida, that could sway it.

Pat Hughes joined the guys on CTL next:

• Hughes says "anything is possible" and the decision will come down to where the better deal is (on Cubs' Spring Training).
• Pat joked about Ron saying that his wife bought him a "sit-up chair". Pat asked, "Would you please explain to me what that is?"
• When asked about the Ricketts, he said, "I just hope he likes the radio broadcasts." Then added that Tom seems like a very nice man who has a great passion for the Cubs with his strong Chicago roots.
• Pat doesn't see Milton Bradley with the Cubs in 2010 in almost any scenario.
• Hughes talked more about his Baseball Voices series. He is offering free shipping on all orders, and there are a total of 8 CDs on www.baseballvoices.com.
• Mike Cameron seems like a leader, has some power, and is a very good defensive player.

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

Bring on the Convention, 2009 Spring Training Broadcast Schedule, Caravan Update

Happy Friday! The Cubs convention is only 1 week away! Finally, the off season is almost over. Harry Caray used to call the convention the unofficial Opening Day. WGN Radio has announced their coverage for the convention:

Friday Jan 16. 3-7: Steve Cochran will host live remote broadcast from Boulevard Room.
Saturday 4-6: David Kaplan hosts Sports Central at Convention (recorded on Fri. )
4-4:30- Lou Piniella and Larry Rothschild join Kap
4:30-5- Jim Hendry and Crane Kenney
5-5:30- Ted Lilly, Ryan Dempster, Reed Johnson, and Aaron Miles
5:30-6- Pat Hughes, Ron Santo, Len Kasper, and Bob Brenly

Segments that will be recorded for possible later broadcast and inclusion on the website:
"Meet Cubs Management" John Williams and Dave Eanet are joined by Lou Piniella, Jim Hendry, Randy Bush, and Crane Kenney
"Not for Women Only" Kathy and Judy are joined by Ryan Theriot, Jeff Samardzija, Sean Marshall, Reed Johnson, and Aaron Miles.
"Game Day Experience" Nick Digilio and Cory Provus are joined by Mike Fontenot, Joey Gathright, Kevin Hart, Koyie Hill, and Ted Lilly
"The Clubhouse Entertainers" Steve Cochran is joined by Ryan Dempster, Lee Smith, Ron Santo, and Randy Hundley.

If you're stuck in the house and have nothing to do or just can't wait until next weeks convention to hear some Cubs talk here are links to audio from segments from past Cubs Conventions:

Sports Centrals with Kap and Waddle:
2000
2001 Part 1
2001 Part 2
2002: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4
2003: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4
2004: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4
2005: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4
2006: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4
2007: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4
2008

Spike O'Dell's Yearly "Meet Cubs Management" Segment:
2002
2003
2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

Kathy and Judy's Yearly "Not for Women Only Segment"

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

John Williams Hosts...

"Life in the Bigs" from 2000

"Pitchers Mound" from 2002

"Getting Started" from 2004

"27 Outs" from 2006

"So You Wanna be a Major Leaguer" from 2007

"A day in the life of a major league" from 2008

Steve Cochran hosts...

"The Skipper and his crew" from 2004

"Behind the Mic" from 2005

"Voices of the Cubs" from 2006

"Tales from the Bullpen" from 2007

"Storytelling with Cubs Legends" from 2008

There you have about 35 hours worth of past convention audio. That should keep you busy.

The Cubs have announced the list of players, coaches, broadcasters, and front office members that will be on the 2009 Cubs convention which is next Wednesday and Thursday.

Tour #1 features:

Lou Piniella (Mornings Only)

Bob Brenly (Wednesday Morning Only)

Jim Hendry (Thursday Only)

Len Kasper (Wednesday Only)

Dave Otto (Thursday Only)

Oneri Fleita (Wednesday Only)

Matt Sinatro

Lester Strode

Ivan DeJesus

Darwin Barney

Jeff Samardzija (Wednesday Afternoon Only)

Kevin Hart (Wednesday Morning Only)

Neal Cotts (Wednesday Only)

Micah Hoffpauir (Thursday Only)

Kevin Gregg (Thursday Only)

Felix Pie

Joey Gathright

Tour #2 features:

Randy Bush

Pat Hughes (Thursday Only)

Cory Provus (Wednesday Only)

Oneri Fleita (Thursday Only)

Larry Rothschild

Alan Trammell

Mike Quade

Gerald Perry (Thursday Only)

Brandon Guyer

Kevin Hart (except Wednesday morning)

Carlos Marmol

Kevin Gregg (Wednesday Only)

Jeff Samardzija (except Wednesday afternoon)

Sean Marshall.

And the Cubs have also announced the 2009 Spring Training Broadcast Schedule:

WGN Radio (11 Games):

Feb. 25 VS LAD

Feb. 26 VS Mil

March 4 VS CLE

March 6 VS LAD

March 14 VS LAA

March 16 VS Mil

March 20 VS SD

March 28 VS Col

April 4 VS NYY

WGN-TV (6 Games)

March 4 VS CWS

March 5 VS CWS

March 7 VS Mil

March 14 VS LAA

March 20 VS SD

March 27 VS CWS

CSN

March 22 VS Sea

March 30 VS KC

April 4 VS NYY

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

Cubs Carvan lists taking shape, The Hawks lose at Wrigley, MLB Network on the way

If you have tickets to the one of the stops during the Cubs caravan here is the list of players you can expect to see there:
Cubs caravan stop in Peoria on Jan. 15:

• Carlos Marmol
• Jeff Samardjiza
• Sean Marshall
• Kevin Hart
• Brandon Guyer (outfielder)
• Randy Bush (assistant GM)
• Oneri Fleita (VP of player personnel)
• Larry Rothschild (pitching coach)
• Alan Trammell (bench coach)
• Gerald Perry (hitting coach)
• Mike Quade (3rd base coach)
• Cory Provus (broadcaster)

The event in Rockford at the Boys and Girls Club list: (click for info. )

• Joey Gatright (OF)
• Kevin Greg (RP)
• Felix Pie (OF)
• Micah Hoffpauir (1B)
• Darwin Barney (SS)
• Ivan DeJesus (coach)
• Matt Sinatro (1B coach)
• Lester Strode (Bullpen Coach)
• Dave Otto (former Cub)
• Oneri Fleita (VP of player personnel)

And the Valpo High School event that I'm headed to:

• Len Kasper (Voice of the Cubs)
• Felix Pie (OF)
• Joey Gathright (OF)
• Jeff Samardzija (RP)

I should have full info on the Cubs Caravan and convention soon.

The Blackhawks have lost in the first non-baseball sporting event at Wrigley since 1984. The final score was Red Wings 6 Hawks 4. The best parts of watching the game were an interview with Ryan Dempster and when Fergie, Billy, Sandberg, and others sang a hockey version of Take Me Out to the Ballgame.

MLB Network launch only about an hour and a half away. I think it's about time that baseball gets its own 24/7 channel. My favorite part of this idea is that baseball will no longer go away in the offseason. 5:00 CT is the launch.

I'll update you if any new rumors get out or if news breaks.

Cubs Caravan, Book Recommendation, and Wrigley turns to ice

The Cubs have the plans set for this years Cubs Caravan. Here is the schedule:

Tour Group 1, Jan. 14- stops at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago, Bouchet Academy in Chicago and a charity dinner in Valparaiso, Indiana. (I live in Northwest Indiana very close to Valpo and I have my tickets for the Charity Dinner.)
Tour Group 1, Jan. 15- Agassiz Elementary School, Jahn Elementary School, and Garvy Elementary School in Chicago; as well as Rockford Boys and Girls Club.
Tour Group 2, Jan. 14- Bateman Elemtary School in Chicago and fundraising luncheon at Harry Caray's Restaurant in Chicago. (the luncheon is sold out)
Tour Group 2, Jan. 15- Lincoln Library and Museum and take part in the Peoria Chiefs' charity fan fest.
The personnel who will take part in the winter tours will be announced at a later date. I'll update you whenever they are announced.

I just finished reading a Cubs book called Hoodoo by Grant DePorter, Elliot Harris, and Mark Vancil. DePorter is the owner of the Harry Caray's restaurant chain and he is best know for buying the Steve Bartman ball for $113,824.16 and then blowing it at Harry Caray's in Chicago. This book does a great job of "unraveling the 100-year mystery of the Cubs" and I would recommend it if you need a last minute gift for a Cubs fan for Christmas. Click Here for more info.

Well on New Years Day there will be a game at Wrigley Field. Not a baseball game, a hockey game. The Chicago Blawkhawks will be play the Detriot Red Wings in the Winter Classic. This will be the first time the Hawks have ever played outdoors and this will be the first hockey game ever played at the Friendly Confines. By the way, the Blackhawks are red hot and have won 7 games in a row. Check out the video of Wrigley turning into the Frozen Confines.

Well, there's only 2 more days until X-Mas! Not much going on with Cubs Rumors lately. We can only wait...
I'll keep you posted.

Cubs to Play Sox at Cashman Field, Cubs '09 Spring Training Schedule

The Cubs and the White Sox have added 2 games to their spring training schedule.

The 2 teams will meet in Las Vegas on March 4th and 5th. Both teams will be playing split-squads during these 2 days. The March 4 game will be at 8:05 PM CT. The game on the 5th will be at 2:05 CT. The Cubs and Sox will now play 5 times during the spring.



Here is the Cubs full 2009 Spring Training Schedule:

Feb. 25 VS LAD, Mesa, 2:05 CT

Feb. 26 VS MIL, Mesa, 2:05 CT

Feb. 27 VS TEX, Surprise, 2:05 CT

Feb. 28 VS CWS, Mesa, 2:05 CT

Mar. 1 VS SD, Peoria, 2:05 CT

Mar. 2 VS ARI, Mesa, 2:05 CT

Mar. 3 VS OAK, Mesa, 2:05 CT

Mar. 4(ss) VS CLE, Goodyear, 2:05 CT

VS CWS, Las Vegas, 8:05 CT

Mar. 5 VS CWS, Las Vegas, 2:05 CT

Mar. 6 VS LAD, Mesa, 2:05 CT

Mar. 7 VS MIL, Maryvale, 2:05 CT

Mar. 8 VS TEX, Mesa, 3:05 CT

Mar. 9 VS KC, Mesa, 3:05 CT

Mar. 10 VS SEA, Peoria, 3:05 CT

Mar. 11 OFF

Mar. 12 WBC

Mar. 13(ss) VS Sea, Mesa, 3:05 CT

VS LAA, Tempe, 3:05 CT

Mar. 14 VS LAA, Mesa, 3:05 CT

Mar. 15 VS ARI, Tuscan, 3:05 CT

Mar. 16 VS MIL, Maryvale, 3:05 CT

Mar. 17 VS LAD, Glendale, 3:05 CT

Mar. 18 VS SF, Mesa, 3:05 CT

Mar. 19 VS SEA, Peoria, 3:05 CT

Mar. 20 VS SD, Mesa, 3:05 CT

Mar. 21 VS CWS, Glendale, 3:05 CT

Mar. 22 VS SEA, Mesa, 3:05 CT

Mar. 23 VS OAK, Phoenix, 3:05 CT

Mar. 24 VS COL, Mesa

Mar. 25 OFF

Mar. 26 VS SF, Scottsdale, 3:05 CT

Mar. 27 VS CWS, Mesa, 3:05 CT

Mar. 28 VS COL, Tuscan, 3:05 CT

Mar. 29 VS CLE, Mesa, 3:05 CT

Mar. 30 VS KC, Surprise, 3:05 CT

April 1 VS OAK, Phoenix, 3:05 CT

April 2 VS CLE, Mesa, 2:05 CT

April 3 VS NYY, New Yankee Stadium, 6:05 CT

April 4 VS NYY, New Yankee Stadium, 12:05 CT



The Cubs will host a luncheon with some of the Cubs players during the Cubs caravan. It will be held on Jan. 14 from 11 AM to 1 PM CT at Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse. Tickets are $100. The money will benefit Cubs Care. Space is limited to 120 guests. Jim Hendry will speak about the upcoming season and one Cubs representative will be seated at each table. Tickets go on Sale Wednesday at 10 AM CT by calling 773-404-CUBS.



Also, the Cubs, NHL, and the Chicago Blackhawks will an open skate at Wrigley Field's temporary ice rink on January 4 from 9 AM to 4 PM CT. However, the event for neighborhood residents is already sold out. Find more information at Cubs.com.



And finally, several sources say that the Cubs are expected to sign Joey Gathright to add to the Cubs bench for next year. Gathright was non-tendered by the Royals last week.

I'll keep you posted.