It has been a disappointing first half for the Chicago Cubs, a team that was expected to compete for the division crown prior to the start of the season. However, GM Jim Hendry has watched his team flounder and instead of adding as the trade deadline approaches, he will be subtracting. Here is a rundown of players who may be headed out of town in the near future:
Ted Lilly- Here is the kind of guy that you hear about every year at the trade deadline. A left-hander that can eat innings and give you quality starts that nearly every contender is interested in. Lilly is in the last year of a four year deal which makes trading him almost inevitable at this point. The most recent rumors show interest coming mainly from the Mets, Dodgers, and Tigers but other teams are still in play. Hendry and Ned Colletti (Dodgers GM) reportedly discussed the possibility for a deal involving Lilly, as he seems to be their top choice at the moment in terms of starting pitching.
Xavier Nady- The Texas Rangers are already big winners in the trade market after acquiring Cliff Lee on Friday. Now they have their sights set on the veteran Nady who would come in and platoon at first base with Chris Davis. The Cubs would likely receive a solid Single-A or Double-A prospect in return which would make this a nice deal for both sides.
IF Trio of Ryan Theriot, Mike Fontenot, and Jeff Baker- Expect one, or possibly two of these three to be in other cities by the time August rolls around. Ryan Theriot is receiving the most attention from other teams, and talks with the Tigers were heating up last week. However, discussion between the Tigers and Cubs has slowed and now the Colorado Rockies appear to be very interested in the Cub second baseman. Once one of these guys go, expect the Cubs to bring up prospect Darwin Barney as they look towards the future.
Tom Gorzelanny- The Giants had a scout at Wrigley Field last week watching Gorzelanny pitch. The left-hander has thrown the ball well this year, and would be a good addition for whoever gets him. However, this is a guy that I would like to see the Cubs hang onto for the future. He is still young (about to turn 28) and they can keep him on the team for a low price. With what he has showed this season (4-5, 3.16 ERA) I think it would be wise to not let him go.
