Cubs, Marmol Avoid Arbitration

The Cubs and Carlos Marmol agreed on a one year contract worth $2.1 million, thus avoiding arbitration.

Marmol, is finally coming into camp knowing that he is going to be the Cubs closer for the 2010 season. As the last two years he lost the job to the likes of Kerry Wood, and Kevin Gregg.  Marmol, once being anointed the closer late in the 2009 season, went 11 for 11 in save opportunities

Marmol also heads a bullpen, that in all likelihood will be filled with young arms. Here is a look at the projected bullpen for the Cubs this year.

Closer- Carlos Marmol

Set Up Relievers- John Grabow, and Angel Guzman

Middle Relievers- Esmalian Caridad, and Jeff Gray

Long Relievers- Carlos Silva, and Tom Gorzelanny

Although their bullpen is subject to change pending on who wins the the fourth and fifth starters spot in spring training. The fifth starter in all likelihood will be a fill-in spot, while Ted Lilly is out for the month of April.

The Cubs also are still looking for a veteran reliever that is inexpensive. On the free agent market they are monitoring Chan Ho Park, and Kiko Calero. They also are having on going trade discussions with the Blue Jays regarding pitcher Jason Frasor.

The Cubs TV schedule was released today, they have a record low 58 games on WGN, but that number could increase to 60 pending on what six games are picked by Fox and ESPN.