Rumors are flying all over the place about moves that the Cubs might make in the next few weeks...
So I have decided to take a step back and really examine the validity of many of these rumors...I have no sources, so I'm going to use some common sense here when evaluating them.
I have divided the rumors in the 3 categories.
Valid Rumors
--Marlon Byrd-- Since Mike Cameron was signed, Byrd has been their primary target. The reason he hasn't signed yet? Price. Byrd's career numbers justify $6 to $8 million a year. He is probably looking for $10 million+ right now after a very good 2009.
--Rick Ankiel-- Probably plan B if they don't sign Byrd. He'll hit homers. And he'll strike out a lot. And he will be just like Soriano in the field.
--Reed Johnson-- Plan C. I want him back. Probably the cheapest free agent option.
--Ben Sheets-- This would be insurance for Ted Lilly.
--Joel Pineiro-- Pineiro would be a lot of money...but there appears to be some truth here.
Fat Chance
--Felix Pie-- Jim Hendry shouldn't go after a guy he traded one year before...and Pie will likely cost more than the Cubs got for him last year. But the Cubs need a center fielder.
--Louis Castillo-- I honestly don't think the Mets can part with this guy...and I can't see the Cubs figuring out a way of getting this guy. But he would be the best leadoff man the Cubs have had in years.
--Jacoby Ellsbury-- Boston actually needs this guy. And I really don't think the Cubs have anyone that the Red Sox would want.
--Jose Contreras-- Why? In the bullpen? I don't think he would be effective enough out there.
--Jermaine Dye-- Exactly where would he play? But Jim Hendry has made signings like this before...so who knows?
Come on! You aren't even trying here!
--Any rumored trade involving Carlos Zambrano-- Not going to happen. He isn't going to go anywhere...anyone ever heard of a 'No Trade Clause'? And he isn't willing to wave it. (Why would he? Why take a chance on a team not putting up with his tired act like the Cubs do?)
--Melky Cabrera-- Atlanta has been loading up this off-season. Why go backwards by trading away the player you just traded for?
--Mike Lowell-- Again, where would he play? And he's coming off of surgery this week. This made sense if the Cubs were swapping bad contracts, but Bradley is gone now, and the Red Sox don't want any of the Cubs players.
--Ryan Spilborghs-- Really, not a better choice than Reed Johnson or Marlon Byrd. He's a utility outfielder at best. Why would the Cubs trade for this guy? It accomplishes nothing.
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