Morning Marquee: Padres sign James Shields; Jake Arrieta pitches in TCU alumni game

It appears the San Diego Padres have won the drawn out war on James Shields. Per reports, Shields has agreed to a four-year deal somewhere in the neighborhood of $75 to $80 million. The Chicago Cubs were a longshot in the race, and were thought to be offering no more than three years guaranteed. While some fans will feel like the Cubs “missed out”, not signing him isn’t a bad thing. With so many unknowns on the roster, and a better free agent pitching class next year the Cubs were better to sit tight.

Texas Christian University held its annual alumni game, and the Cubs’ Jake Arrieta got the start. The outcome for the alumni was not a pleasant however, as the No. 2 ranked Horned Frogs won 9-1. The alumni team included other big leaguers Brandon Finnegan (Royals), Scott Atchison(Indians), Matt Carpenter(Cardinals) and Bryan Holaday(Tigers).

The MLB All-Star game will begin using a “bidding system” similar to the Super Bowl to decide who host the Midsummer classic. The process would begin in 2017, as the 2016 has already been awarded to San Diego. New commissioner Rob Manfred would have it for cities to make their case as why they merit hosting the contest. Manfred did say he believes Wrigley Field would be a great host following the renovations. The Cubs last hosted an All-Star game in 1990.

‘Jake Arrieta start for TCU in alumni game, loses 9-1 to No. 2 ranked varsity’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Report: San Diego Padres land James Shields’ – Friars on Base

‘MLB to mimic Super Bowl bidding for All-Star game’ – ESPN.com

‘Are the Indians relying too heavily on injured players bouncing back?’ – Wahoo’s on First

‘How the Tigers should handle their injuries’ – Motor City Bengals