Cubs MLB Roster

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40 players are on the MLB RESERVE LIST (roster is full) 

28 players on MLB RESERVE LIST are ACTIVE, and twelve players are on OPTIONAL ASSIGNMENT to minors. 

Last updated 3-26-2024
 
* bats or throws left
# bats both

PITCHERS: 15
Yency Almonte
Adbert Alzolay 
Javier Assad
Jose Cuas
Kyle Hendricks
* Shota Imanaga
Caleb Kilian
Mark Leiter Jr
* Luke Little
Julian Merryweather
Hector Neris 
* Drew Smyly
* Justin Steele
Jameson Taillon
* Jordan Wicks

CATCHERS: 2
Miguel Amaya
Yan Gomes

INFIELDERS: 7
* Michael Busch 
Nico Hoerner
Nick Madrigal
* Miles Mastrobuoni
Christopher Morel
Dansby Swanson
Patrick Wisdom

OUTFIELDERS: 4
* Cody Bellinger 
Alexander Canario
# Ian Happ
Seiya Suzuki
* Mike Tauchman 

OPTIONED: 12 
Kevin Alcantara, OF 
Michael Arias, P 
Ben Brown, P 
Alexander Canario, OF 
Pete Crow-Armstrong, OF 
Brennen Davis, OF 
Porter Hodge, P 
* Matt Mervis, 1B 
Daniel Palencia, P 
Keegan Thompson, P 
Luis Vazquez, INF 
Hayden Wesneski, P 

 



 

Minor League Rosters
Rule 5 Draft 
Minor League Free-Agents

Buck O’Neil (1911-2006)

John J. "Buck" O'Neil, the ex-Negro Leaguer probably best-known as one of the "stars" of the Ken Burns PBS Documentrary series "Baseball" in the 1990's, died yesterday in Kansas City. He was 94. O'Neil was born in Florida in 1911 and attended Edward Waters College in Jacksonville. He signed his first professional baseball contract in 1935, and toured with Syd Pollock's Ethopian Clowns. He joined the Memphis Red Sox of the Negro American League in 1937, and moved to the NAL Kansas City Monarchs in 1938. He played 1B for the Monarchs for many years (where he was a long-time teammate of the legendary Satchel Paige), helping the Monarchs win four-straight NAL pennants 1939-1942. O'Neil joined the U. S. Navy after the '42 season, and served three years as a Seabee in World War II, before returning to the Monarchs in 1946. O'Neil won the NAL batting title in 1946 while hitting .346, and played in the Negro League World Series that season as the Newark Eagles (champions of the Negro National League) led by Monte Irvin, Larry Doby, and Leon Day defeated the Monarchs in a hard-fought seven games to win the Negro Leagues championship. Buck was named player-manager of the Monarchs in 1948, and over the next eight years, helped develop many future major leaguers. What is less well-known about O'Neil is his Cubs connection. As the "color barrier" broke down and as Major League Baseball began to integrate in the late 1940's and throughout the 1950's, Chicago Cubs owner Phil Wrigley developed a relationship with Monarch's owner Tom Baird and manager Buck O'Neil that resulted in the Cubs acquiring a number of African American players from the Monarchs, including future major leaguers Ernie Banks, Gene Baker, George Altman, and J. C. Hartman. In fact, most of the black players in the Cubs organization in the 1950's came to the Cubs from the Kansas City Monarchs. So in a way, the Monarchs were a Cubs "farm" club. (The one Monarch the Cubs let get away in the 50's was a good one, that being future star Yankee catcher Elston Howard). O'Neil was hired as a Cubs scout by Phil Wrigley in 1955, the first African American scout to work for an MLB club. Among the players signed by O'Neil during this period was star Southern University outfielder and future Hall of Famer Lou Brock. O'Neil was appointed to the Cubs "College of Coaches" in 1962, becoming the first black MLB coach. He never rotated into the "Head Coach" slot, but if he had, he would have been the first African American manager in big league history. As a mamber of the College of Coaches, O'Neil rotated between the Cubs major league club and minor league clubs. Although the hiring of Leo Durocher as manager after the 1965 season ended the College of Coaches on the Major League level, the College of Coaches continued to operate throughout the Cubs farm system throughout the 1960's into the 1970's. After leaving the College of Coaches, O'Neil went back to scouting for the Cubs, and signed outfielder Oscar Gamble in 1968. He later served as a scout for the Kansas City Royals, and was a member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame Veterans Committee. 17 Negro League players previously overlooked were elected to the Hall of Fame last February, but O'Neil was not among them. Not bitter over not being admitted to the HOF, O'Neil spoke at the induction ceremony for the 17 Negro Leaguers in Cooperstown this past August. O'Neil was also one of the founders of the Negro Leagues Hall of Fame & Museum in Kansas City in the 1990's, and Arizona Phil and Mrs. Arizona Phil had the pleasure of meeting Mr. O'Neill there in 1997. And let me tell you, that was a thrill!

Comments

shame about o'neil...supposedly not the greatest player, but one of the greater spokesmen and workers of his historic cause. he'll find his way into the hall somehow, sometime...if for no other reason than some executives get in...for contributions to the game on whole.

He did lead the Negro league in hits and won two championships, I believe. That's a pretty good accomplishment player wise on top of everything wise. He seemed like such an awesome guy. Despite all the racism directed his way, he managed to eternally stay happy and exuded such class. We could all learn from him.

The rumor is the Twins are expected to pick up Torii Hunter's 12 million dollar option. But Torii says he doesn't want just one more year, he wants to stay in Minn longer than that. Well all he is going to get is 1 more year if he keeps thinking he wants 13+ million a year. Kind of surprised that Minn might do that.

OT post here, but if the Yanks get bounced today by the Tigers, I'd just love for Steinbrenner to insist on trading A-Rod to a team like, say, the Cubs???

When they get bounced, you can say BYE BYE to the most overrated maanger in MLB history, Joe Torre. And it makes perfect sense for them to add Girardi ASAP. Hendry better not take too long or Girardi will be gone.

Yea, A-Rod ain't coming to the Cubs. Here's a disgusting post I found on another Cubs forum regarding A-Rod being available this winter: "But what if the deal is Arod for Prior/Pie/Hill/Murton/prospect. I would have to think about it - I may still do it, but it would take some thought." Can anyone believe this friggin' crap? Miguel Cabrera is a better and much younger player who you could aquire for that package of players. I don't understand the obsession with A-Rod. He was maybe the best player in MLB a few years ago, but he's quickly moving past his prime. And I think his ability to divide a clubhouse will follow him anywhere he goes. Fanboys obsessed over a name.

So you think Girardi will get along with Stenbrenner anymore than he did with Lorie? I think a better fit for the Yanks if Jt gets bounced would be the ever popular player manager Dusty "Dude" Baker.

Pinella probably is looking at Yanks job right now, and makes more sense. Stein will want an ass kicker in there with a pedigree. RIP Buck, always a joy and priviledge to hear his stories.

In "Zim: A Baseball Life," former Cubs manager and Girardi mentor Don Zimmer described the organizational meeting in which Yankees owner George Steinbrenner wanted to get rid of Girardi. "I got up from the floor and said, `George, it's a shame you have it in for Joe Girardi. I know you like tough people, and I can assure you there's no one in this room as tough as Joe Girardi. I remember you saying `your people' don't think Girardi can do anything. Here's their opportunity to speak up.'" http://tinyurl.com/lqzeg Doesn't seem like a lot of love by Steinbrenner for Girardi. Of course Cashman supposedly has a bit more control now. If the Yanks do trade A-rod for whatever reason, I would hope they'd do it for a big time pitcher cause it's pretty obvious that's what they need. One who's not 40+ years old.

http://tinyurl.com/ktugw Possibly one of the best opinions pieces I've ever read, nice to see Rick Morrisey wake up. Too much to cut and paste but it's on the Cubs finding a new manager and it is fantastic, imho.

hahaha, Fox announcer: "Listen to the Roar! Tigers in 4!" Dude had that one ready for weeks. Well that blew up my bracket, stupid good pitching!!! But always good to see the Evil Empire crumble. Players take Leyland off the field on their shoulders. Things you'll never see happen to Dusty.

#12 of 12: By Rob G. (October 7, 2006 06:31 PM) hahaha, Fox announcer: "Listen to the Roar! Tigers in 4!" Dude had that one ready for weeks. Well that blew up my bracket, stupid good pitching!!! But always good to see the Evil Empire crumble. Players take Leyland off the field on their shoulders. Things you'll never see happen to Dusty. -- ROB G: And that Fox announcer to whom you refer is none other than Northwestern alum and ex-Cubs announcer (1997) Josh Lewin, who was the Tigers play-by-play guy 1998-2001.

DET running around the field with champaign spraying fans like they won the WS. Hey boys, still got 2 more series' to win.

anyone care to guess why Giambi sat for Melky Cabrera today and A-rod batted 8th? Way to go Torre! A's vs. Tigers looks like a fun series, both teams havve no real weaknesses.

Rob G.: "Players take Leyland off the field on their shoulders. Things you'll never see happen to Dusty." Nor should you after a NLDS win.

#5 of 16: By mannytrillo (October 7, 2006 05:15 PM) When they get bounced, you can say BYE BYE to the most overrated maanger in MLB history, Joe Torre. And it makes perfect sense for them to add Girardi ASAP. Hendry better not take too long or Girardi will be gone. Did you ever think maybe the ball isn't in Hendry's court? Girardi and Big Lou may have told Hendry they won't make a decision until after any potential Yankee situation settles itself out. Comments like this, along with comments bitching about how Hendry couldn't sign a particular FA, make me wonder if people believe that all Hendry has to do is snap his fingers and that FA player/coach has a signed contract. Its a two-way street..... just because Hendry hasn't/didn't do something doesnt mean he had the option to act in the first place.

anyonet think Anderson should of had that ball? Maddux is lucky Loduca got thrown out at 3rd or this could be much worse.

has anyone even hit a ball hard this inning off Maddux?

LNL: "Did you ever think maybe the ball isn't in Hendry's court? Girardi and Big Lou may have told Hendry they won't make a decision until after any potential Yankee situation settles itself out." And if they did say that, then Hendry should say that we are moving forward and not going to wait till it is convenient for you (Girardi and/or Pinella) to make a decision on my organizations next manager. If you are interested, we would love for you to interview, if you would like the NYY job more or wait till you have more options (thus more bargaining chips), you can go ahead and wait, but we are not waiting for you. Hendry should in no way be held over a barrel because of a possible NYY opening. If he is letting himself, and thus this organization do so, then I have even less respect for him, which wasn't much in the first place.

Girardi wants to be the Cubs manager, he's not waiting for anything. Piniella would probably love to get the Yanks job, but I doubt Torre is going anywhere. The Marlins hiring a guy the day they fired somebody is a rather unique thing. Otherwise this stuff usually takes a few weeks, be patient folks. They'll probably start doing interviews next week and maybe there's somebody on a playoff team that might take a little longer.

I for one will be surprised if Torre is brought back. Pinella seems the logical choice, and a Steinbrenner favorite, and Cashman will push Arod to the Angels and the west coast is a perfect fit for a guy who chokes under pressure. Jaret Wright probably gone, don't think Sheffield's option will be picked up either. The Yankees showed no passion in the last 2 games and I think Georgie is gonna do some casa-cleaning. Wang, Posada, Rivera and Jeter were the only Yankees who showed up. This will probably mean that they'll go even harder after that Japanese pitcher too.

Arod? Does anyone really believe he's worth 27 million? I'd rather the Cubs drop loads of money on Ramirez than spend 27 million on Arod in '07 (oh yeah, in '08, '09, and in '10 by the way). And it also wouldn't take "Prior/Pie/Hill/Murton/prospect", he could be acquired for much less.

Let me spread a rumor that I heard in the middle of the summer and that I passed along at that time. I think recent events make this rumor even more interesting. The rumor I heard came from the producer of a sports radio show in Madison, WI. According to the rumor, Hendry had a meeting with Lou Pinella over the summer to get a feel for Pinella's potential interest in managing the Cubs in 2007. From what I heard, it was just a "feeling out" meeting. During the meeting, Pinella indicated that he would likely not be interested in managing a team like the Cubs that was so far away from being competitive. But he said that if Hendry had some big moves in mind, Pinella was willing to talk. Pinella went on to say that he had just been in NY to broadcast a game and that he had met with ARod (Remember, Pinella was ARod's first big league manager in Seattle). Arod was in the midst of a terrible slump at the time and he had turned to Pinella for help. Supposedly, Pinella indicated that ARod was very unhappy in NY and it did not appear that the Yankees were overly thrilled with him. Pinella indicated that it was possible that a deal could be made for ARod during the off-season. If the Cubs could make a move to obtain ARod, Pinella supposedly said that he would be interested in managing the Cubs. Considering recent events with ARod in NY, I think the possibility of the Yankees trading him are greatly increased. I can't imagine that ARod is excited about playing for the Yanks again next year after being constantly lambasted by the fans and media in NY. And I'm sure the other Yankees players are tired of dealing with the daily drama that surrounded ARod this past year. It must have been a distraction to them. Trading ARod could move him to a team where he would be comfortable and it could prevent further problems/distractions in the clubhouse. Whether this rumor is true or not, I have no way of knowing. Obviously, a lot of things would need to fall into place for this to become a reality. But it is fun to think about.

Ryno: "Arod? Does anyone really believe he's worth 27 million? I'd rather the Cubs drop loads of money on Ramirez than spend 27 million on Arod in '07 (oh yeah, in '08, '09, and in '10 by the way)." The Cubs wouldn't have to pay him anywhere close to $27 million per year. Firstly, the Texas Rangers are picking up $9.57 million per year as part of the trade with the New York Yankees ($67 million over the last 7 years). Secondly, I am sure the Yankees would have to pick up a good portion of his remaining salary, $5 million per year at minimum. So that leaves his remaining salary to be under $13 million per year [$27 million - $9.57 million (TEX share) - $5 million (NYY share) = $12.43 million left]. At under $13 million, it is a no brainer, money wise. Especially if we could unload Izturis contract. Of course, then we would have to see what it would take prospect wise to get him, but financially it would not be a problem. But we need to see if NYY is even thinking about trading him and if he will waive his no-trade clause (unless when a player waives it once it is void).

LNL: "Did you ever think maybe the ball isn't in Hendry's court? Girardi and Big Lou may have told Hendry they won't make a decision until after any potential Yankee situation settles itself out." And if they did say that, then Hendry should say that we are moving forward and not going to wait till it is convenient for you (Girardi and/or Pinella) to make a decision on my organizations next manager. If you are interested, we would love for you to interview, if you would like the NYY job more or wait till you have more options (thus more bargaining chips), you can go ahead and wait, but we are not waiting for you. - Unlike your boy Dusty, most managerial candidates donít come into a job with literally zero other opportunities. There is no doubt Girardi, Big Lou and probably any other candidate we plan on going after is going to have multiple interviews and weigh his options. Both Girardi and Lou have already interview with the Nationals and Iím sure that wonít be their last stop either. Being that the first round of the playoffs is not over yet, I donít think it is unreasonable to think that our candidates, at this point, would not be willing to commit to Hendry until they figure out what other options they have. Our organization is coming off a 96 loss season, no world series since 1908, a front office in flux, and an owner that some speculate could sell the team. If you were an impartial baseball guy simply looking for the right situation, would you not want to weigh your options also? If Hendry is to go by your thinking, we might as well quit thinking about Big Lou right now. No way in hell he signs anywhere before he sees how the Yankee situation shakes out. Hopefully Girardi doesn't feel the same way, but if there is one job that could pull him away, it's the Yanks. My point was, you have no idea what people are telling Hendry. No it may not be specifically ìIím going to wait for the Yanks situation to shake out, Iíll get back to youî but they may make it clear to Hendry that they wonít be signing with the Cubs until they interview with multiple teams and see what options they have. Nothing different than what FA players do ALL THE TIME. Lets not throw Hendry under the bus for not signing a specific manager ìASAPî yet.

LNL: "If you were an impartial baseball guy simply looking for the right situation, would you not want to weigh your options also?" Absolutely, and I would of already figured out the the Cubs situation isn't the right one for a guy who has other options. "If Hendry is to go by your thinking, we might as well quit thinking about Big Lou right now. No way in hell he signs anywhere before he sees how the Yankee situation shakes out." If Pinella is going to wait for the NYY situation to shake out, then yes, we should stop thinking about Pinella as a legit option (unless tomorrow Steinbrenner fires Torre ans starts interviewing right away). But what if the NYY wait till November 1st or Thanksgiving to decide what to do with Torre, should we wait till then? I say no way... "No it may not be specifically ìIím going to wait for the Yanks situation to shake out, Iíll get back to youî but they may make it clear to Hendry that they wonít be signing with the Cubs until they interview with multiple teams and see what options they have." And that is fine if those interviews with other teams fit in OUR timetable. If Hendry and McD want a manager by November 1st, then they need to make a decision based on those availible at that time.

Both Girardi and Lou have already interview with the Nationals and Iím sure that wonít be their last stop either. They have?

And that is fine if those interviews with other teams fit in OUR timetable. If Hendry and McD want a manager by November 1st, then they need to make a decision based on those availible at that time. No kidding. Heres what you originally said: "it makes perfect sense for them to add Girardi ASAP. Hendry better not take too long or Girardi will be gone." Notice no mention of waiting until a November 1st deadline and allowing a manager to weigh other options. Merely the need to add Girardi "ASAP" without any regard for what options Girardi may want to weigh before he commits. You didn't say anything about it being OK if other possibilities fit into our timetable. You merely said that if the candidate wanted to wait and interview with other teams ("thus giving the candidate more bargaining chips") then we should move on. I think anyone would agree that if Big Lou or Girardi held out on us for 6 weeks or so it gets a little ridiculous and we need to move on. But you were already calling for Hendry to hire Girardi "ASAP", which may, just may, not be a possible option right now. Lets let this interview carousel shake out first before we start demanding that Hendry find a candidate to sign immediately or else. Again, the ball may simply not be in his court right now. And after all, I'm sure in your mind if there is one thing Hendry has been successful at, its hiring a good manager. Lets give him the time to do it correctly.

Both Girardi and Lou have already interview with the Nationals and Iím sure that wonít be their last stop either. They have? --- Yes Rob: http://tinyurl.com/hmhcr

LNL: "Merely the need to add Girardi "ASAP" without any regard for what options Girardi may want to weigh before he commits." Of course if that is who Hendry wants to hire, he should go get him ASAP and not wait around to see what NYY does. Yes no rush, just go by your own time frame not anyone elses. "You didn't say anything about it being OK if other possibilities fit into our timetable. You merely said that if the candidate wanted to wait and interview with other teams ("thus giving the candidate more bargaining chips") then we should move on." I said: "And that is fine if those interviews with other teams fit in OUR timetable." "But you were already calling for Hendry to hire Girardi "ASAP", which may, just may, not be a possible option right now." I am sorry, you might iof interpeted that wrong or I didn't make myself clear enough. It was meant if Hendry wanted him as our manager, he should go get him ASAP. I have not backed anyone as a possible new manager yet.

And I'm sure the other Yankees players are tired of dealing with the daily drama that surrounded ARod this past year. --- That's just it, I'm sure the Yankees front office is sick and tired of seeing the media jam mics in the faces of the Jeters and Posadas and bogging their team down with all the Arod crap. Who is backing Arod, why isn't Jeter sticking up for him, blah blah blah blah, is just as big a story in NYC as Arod's struggles themselves. If Pinella and Arod are tight and Pinella does inherit the job in 2007 then maybe Lou pushes the front office to keep Arod which makes me rethink my position and I don't want Pinella in NY because I don't want another year of NY media vs. Arod coverage. Pinella isn't going go manage the Nationals even with Soriano back. Their pitching is bad and even furthur away from contending than the Cubs. Even if Torre does stay for his final year you still might see Lou sit out 2007 and wait for the Yankees job. Even if the Yankees win in 2007 Torre's not coming back.

mannytrillo: Firstly, the Texas Rangers are picking up $9.57 million per year as part of the trade with the New York Yankees Owned! Seriously, though, he'd be worth the hypothetical $13, a "no-brainer" as you said, but there's only room for one 3rd baseman, and I'd rather the Cubs keep Ramirez for 13 mil, simply because of his age. Just my opinion.

If the Cubs were to get A-Rod (and that's a monumentally big "if"), I would I guess he'd be moved back to SS. Unless, of course, he's being acquired to replace Ramirez who has left for free agency.

BTW, not implying Arod is old, just saying Ramirez is younger.

I think ARod would probably be moved back to SS whether Ramirez is re-signed or not. ARod was one of the best SS in baseball before going to the Yankees. The only reason he moved to third was because of Jeter.

Ryno: "there's only room for one 3rd baseman, and I'd rather the Cubs keep Ramirez for 13 mil, simply because of his age. Just my opinion." I'd have no intention of him playing 3B. He would be playing SS.

"Of course if that is who Hendry wants to hire, he should go get him ASAP and not wait around to see what NYY does. Yes no rush, just go by your own time frame not anyone elses." Again, that may not be an option. Even if Hendry may want to sign him, he may want to conduct his interviews and see what his options are. It's a two-way street and it may be a bit premature, and naive, to assume that just because we offer, its a done deal. (See Furcal, Rafael) "I said: "And that is fine if those interviews with other teams fit in OUR timetable." No you didn't. You are trying to spin your orignal position into a new argument now. You originally said that if a candidate wanted to wait until they had more options, or "bargaining chips" we should move on. (See Post #20). I guess since Big Lou or Girardi may have more "bargaining chips" since they interviewed with the Nats, its time to move on. Brenly also reportedly has an interview set up with the Giants, so I guess he is out also. My orginal point was simply that it may not be possible for Hendry to move ASAP on Girardi, in order to preempt the Yanks, because Girardi may not be open to signing with us ASAP. I dont think that position is a stretch. It's amazing how that point has gotten spun over the course of a half dozen posts. Oh well.

A-rod over Ramirez is a marginal upgrade. It's an upgrade, don't get me wrong, but not nearly as impactful as if he were to be acquired to play SS and Ramirez was still playing 3b. If they were to dump A-rod, which I doubt, I would guess one to two pitchers would do it. Maybe Hill and Guzman. I guess it'd depend on how much the Cubs would pay of cours.e Thanks for the link on the interviews, they sure flew those under the radar.

Rob G -- Why do you think it is such a stretch that the Yankees would trade ARod? This year has been a mess for ARod (even though he was still one of the top 3rd basemen in the AL) and the media attention has been a huge pain in the clubhouse. The fans, the media and even his own team have turned on him. At this point, I almost think it is more likely that ARod gets moved than that he stays.

LNL: "Again, that may not be an option. Even if Hendry may want to sign him, he (Girardi) may want to conduct his interviews and see what his options are." And again, that is fine as long as it fits in Hendry's timetable. If Hendry wants him, offer him a deal, if Girardi says I want to see what my other options are, then Hendry should say you got a couple days or we need to move on. "You originally said that if a candidate wanted to wait until they had more options, or "bargaining chips" we should move on. (See Post #20). I guess since Big Lou or Girardi may have more "bargaining chips" since they interviewed with the Nats, its time to move on." Yes, the key word being "WAIT". Hendry should not have to wait for X manager to wait weeks for another job to possibly open up or wait for other interviews. I don't care about what interviews X manager has had already or is currently doing. i have a problem with "WAITING" for X manager becuase there might be more opening/interviews down the road sometime. "My orginal point was simply that it may not be possible for Hendry to move ASAP on Girardi, in order to preempt the Yanks, because Girardi may not be open to signing with us ASAP." That very well may be true, but then I just hope we don't "wait" for Girardi to make his decision for more than a couple days.

Thanks for the link on the interviews, they sure flew those under the radar. - Yes they did. Not on the headlines at MLB.com or ESPN.com's baseball page. Chicagosports.com has Girardi in Chicago early this week to meet with Hendry but no timetable for Brenly or Big Lou. Also closes with any changes in Torre's situation potentially impacting both Girardi's and Piniella's availability. http://tinyurl.com/puzz4

*When they get bounced, you can say BYE BYE to the most overrated maanger in MLB history, Joe Torre. And it makes perfect sense for them to add Girardi ASAP. Hendry better not take too long or Girardi will be gone.* Yeah, Mannytrillo, parrotting my idea from the previous thread.

I don't understand this part from LNL's link: "Girardi is expected in Chicago early this week to meet with Hendry. He also will talk to interim President John McDonough." Is John McD going to be also interviewing all the potential managers? If so, WHY?? Isn't it the GM's job to hire the manager? Can't Hendry just give him a run down of how the interview went? McD has to have him own sepcial intercvew with him? UGH, only the Cubs!!!

Why do you think it is such a stretch that the Yankees would trade ARod? I'm not sure if i think it's a stretch, just unlikey. Every off-season after the Yanks get bounced we here people saying that Torre's on the hot-seat, there's gonna be a big shakeup and all that happens is they keep adding players. And A-rod's worth a lot to them beyond baseball as well. He also has a no-trade clause and you generally have to give a guy a good reason to waive those. Going from the Yanks to the Cubs is not a good reason. Maybe, just maybe if Lou Pa is the manager and they are buddy-buddy, then just maybe. I still think it's a long-shot, but hey, baseball's weird.

Rob G -- You bring up a really good point. I've heard ARod refer to himself as an "AL kind of guy." He would need to have a really good reason to waive his no-trade clause to go to an NL team. Pinella might be a good enough reason. I wonder what kind of relationship ARod has with Girardi. They were together on the Yanks last year when Girardi was the bench coach.

Who knows what the plans are, but if the prez wants to familirize himself with the candidates, I don't think it's a big deal. Hell, maybe they know each other, McDonough has been here since the Dallas Green era. Well I knew there was a high-scoring game in this Mets/dodgers series waiting to happen. Bummer for Maddux....

"You originally said that if a candidate wanted to wait until they had more options, or "bargaining chips" we should move on. (See Post #20). I guess since Big Lou or Girardi may have more "bargaining chips" since they interviewed with the Nats, its time to move on." Yes, the key word being "WAIT". Hendry should not have to wait for X manager to wait weeks for another job to possibly open up or wait for other interviews. - Manny, Your posts aren't even relating to the original argument anymore. I am agreeing with everything you are now saying. The problem is, you didn't originally say wait for WEEKS... you just said that if we had to wait for them to conduct further interviews, we should move on. That position is just not reasonable given the current interview carousel that is going on, at least if you want one of our "Big 3" Again, my orginal point was simply that it may not be possible for Hendry to move ASAP on Girardi, in order to preempt the Yanks, because Girardi may not be open to signing with us ASAP. I still dont think that position is a stretch. Keep spinning it all you want, but it boils down to that in my mind. Lets give it some time and see how these interviews shake out. My opinion... we sign Girardi within 2 weeks, but he will conduct other interviews and thus have some "bargaining chips" to use in contract negotiations.

LNL: "The problem is, you didn't originally say wait for WEEKS... you just said that if we had to wait for them to conduct further interviews, we should move on" Well, I apologize if I wasn't clear and I guess I should have been more specific. I thought it was kind of obvious, as I wasn't asking for anything that isn't normal hiring practices.

No big deal at all. I had no intentions of geting into a discussion about the correct timeframe to allow a candidate to spend exploring his options outside of Wrigleyville. I just didn't agree with what seemed to be your assertion in Post #5 that without a doubt Hendry has the power to sign Girardi at any point he pleases, especially this early in the process. I guess we will find out together how much posturing Girardi plans on doing before deciding to take the job. For our sake, I hope its not much if that is the direction Hendry plans on going, but I would be suprised if Girardi doesn't at least act like he is exploring other options simply for contract leverage.... and I dont feel that should/will stop us from pursuing him. In another note, I hate the Mets, but I do take some pleasure in seeing that fucker Furcal not advancing in the playoffs. Maddux, Nomar and Lofton are of course a different story.

A-Rod at SS (provided A-Ram is still at 3B) would infinitely improve the Cubs offense. Let's not get carried away by the anti-Arod hype. The guy is still one of the top hitters in baseball. To me, this is a classic change of scenery type of situation. He needs to get of NY. The whole atmosphere there is just radioactive at this point. I'd trade pussy Prior and worthless Wood for the guy. Maybe that wouldn't work (it probably wouldn't) but the Yanks would not be working from a position of strength in the deal and could possibly set themselves up to get hosed. Another bonus to ARod at SS: bye bye Cesar.

mannytrillo: Is John McD going to be also interviewing all the potential managers? If so, WHY?? Isn't it the GM's job to hire the manager? Can't Hendry just give him a run down of how the interview went? McD has to have him own sepcial intercvew with him? UGH, only the Cubs!!! I'm getting the feeling this John McDonough is micromanaging way more than the hands-off McPhail ever did. I keep hearing things like "we" when it used to be "Jim". Micromanaging is usually a bad thing, but like AZ Phil said, it sounds like Hendry is on a short leash. I'd be concerned about this, but after last year's misery any kind of change can't be all that bad.

Ryno- If it means Hendry is on a tight leash, then anything is worth it.

Horatio: Another bonus to ARod at SS: bye bye Cesar. Let's not get ahead of ourselves... Izturis: good arm, injury prone... sounds perfect for the Cubs starting rotation.

Little Nate Lewis: In another note, I hate the Mets, but I do take some pleasure in seeing that {expletive} Furcal not advancing in the playoffs. Yeah, I was happy too. I really don't like the Dodgers lately, mainly because their organization does what I wish the Cubs organization would do. It's a jealousy thing for me.

Man I was perusing "Dodger Thoughts" off and on during the game, reading through some of the comments. Those boys hate Kenny Lofton and it's not a group that usually gets on a guy for no good reason.

Manny: "Is John McD going to be also interviewing all the potential managers? If so, WHY?? Isn't it the GM's job to hire the manager? Can't Hendry just give him a run down of how the interview went? McD has to have him own sepcial intercvew with him? UGH, only the Cubs!!!" --- Ryno: "I'm getting the feeling this John McDonough is micromanaging way more than the hands-off McPhail ever did. I keep hearing things like "we" when it used to be "Jim". Micromanaging is usually a bad thing, but like AZ Phil said, it sounds like Hendry is on a short leash. I'd be concerned about this, but after last year's misery any kind of change can't be all that bad." --- I'm getting the feeling that neither one of you considered the possibility that McDonough and Joe are friends. It doesn't say anything about McDonough interviewing Girardi.

I just don't see what's so great about that Morrissey column. Sure, alot of that stuff sounds good and romantic, but who's the last guy in professional baseball to walk into a new environment and act like he owns the place? Morrissey needs to address that shit to ownership... the people who can actually instill that attitude. It's not like Hendry and Baker were trying to sell a product to anyone. They were trying (in their own very misguided way) to win.

Let's not get ahead of ourselves... Izturis: good arm, injury prone... sounds perfect for the Cubs starting rotation. That was a good one, Ryno. I had a good chuckle. I'd love to see him throwing a towel with Mark Prior. BTW, I wonder if Prior cuddles his towel and sucks his thumb when he goes to sleep? Re: that Morrisey column, I believe I said the exact same thing in a comment to a recent post. Rick must be reading my stuff again.

Recent comments

  • crunch (view)

    yeah, for me this isn't about who's better at 3rd.  it's madrigal, period.  for me it's about who's not hitting in the lineup because madrigal is in the lineup.

    occasional play at 3rd for madrigal, okay.  going with the steele/ground-ball matchup...meh, but okay, whatever.

    seeing madrigal get significant starting time...no thanks.

  • Dolorous Jon Lester (view)

    Yeah I am very disappointed Madrigal is starting. He has no business as a starter. He is AAA insurance, a back up at best. Sure his defense looks fine because he plays far enough in that his noodle arm isn’t totally exposed. It comes at the cost of 3B range.

    He’s garbage, and a team serious about winning would NOT have him starting opening day.

  • crunch (view)

    in other news, it took 3 PA before a.rizzo got his 1st HBP of the season.

  • Eric S (view)

    With two home runs (so far) and 5 rbi today … clearly Nick Martini is the straw that stirs the Reds drink 😳

  • crunch (view)

    madrigal at 3rd...morel at DH.

    making room for madrigal or/and masterboney to get a significant amount of ABs is a misuse of the roster.  if it needed to get taken care of this offseason, they had tons of time to figure that out.

    morel played almost exclusively at 3rd in winter ball and they had him almost exclusively there all spring when he wasn't DH'ing.

    madrigal doing a good job with the glove for a bit over 2 chances per game...is that worth more than what he brings with the bat 4-5 PA a game?  it's 2024 and we got glenn beckert 2.0 manning 3rd base.

    this is a tauchman or cooper DH situation based on bat, alone.  cooper is 3/7 with a double off eovaldi if you want to play the most successful matchup.

    anyway, i hope this is a temporary thing, not business as usual for the rest of the season.  it will be telling if morel is not used at 3rd when an extreme fly ball pitcher like imanaga is on the mound.

  • Arizona Phil (view)

    There are two clear "logjams" in the Cubs minor league pipeline at the present time, namely AA outfielders (K. Alcantara, C. Franklin, Roederer, Pagan, Pinango, Beesley, and Nwogu) and Hi-A infielders (J. Rojas, P. Ramirez, Howard, R. Morel, Pertuz, R. Garcia, and Spence, although Morel has been getting a lot of reps in the outfield in addition to infield). So it is possible that you might see a trade involving one of the extra outfielders at AA and/or one of the extra infielders at Hi-A in the next few days. 

  • Arizona Phil (view)

    18-year old SS Jefferson Rojas almost made the AA Tennessee Opening Day roster, and he is a legit shortstop, so I would expect him to be an MLB Top 100 prospect by mid-season. 

  • Arizona Phil (view)

    Among the relievers in the system, I expect RHRP Hunter Bigge at AAA Iowa and RHRP Ty Johnson at South Bend to have breakout seasons on 2024, and among the starters I see LHP Drew Gray and RHP Will Sanders at South Bend and RHP Naz Mule at ACL Cubs as the guys who will make the biggest splash. Also, Jaxon Wiggins is throwing bullpen sides, so once he is ready for game action he could be making an impact at Myrtle Beach by June.

  • Arizona Phil (view)

    I expect OF Christian Franklin to have a breakout season at AA Tennessee in 2024. In another organization that doesn't have PCA, Caissie, K. Alcantara, and Canario in their system, C. Franklin would be a Top 10 prospect. 

  • Arizona Phil (view)

    The Reds trading Joe Boyle for Sam Moll at last year's MLB Trade Deadline was like the Phillies trading Ben Brown to the Cubs for David Robertson at the MLB TD in 2022.