Examining the Cubs Trade Market

The Cubs have yet to discuss any major traded with any team around major league baseball. However, Paul Sullivan reports that, that may soon change in the next two to three weeks if the Cubs do not come out of their season long slump. Among the players that Sullivan mentions could be on the trading block are Derrek Lee, Ted Lilly, Kosuke Fukudome, Tom Gorzelanny, and Xavier Nady.

It makes all the sense in the world for the Cubs, who have a bloated payroll, to become sellers. Not only would it open some flexibility it would give them the chance to play young players such as Tyler Colvin, who has looked very good in limited action. One thing, that Sullivan mentions is that both Derrek Lee and Kosuke Fukudome have no trade clauses. But, it is likely Lee would waive his no trade clause for a contending west coast team, specifically the Angels or Giants.

Sullivan also points out that when Aramis Ramirez comes back from the disabled list, the Cubs will have to either trade or release Chad Tracy or Jeff Baker as both are out of minor league options. The Cubs have long liked the versatility of Baker as he is capable of playing second and third, as well as playing right field. And, in the end, that is likely going to be the reason why Baker remains with the team, and Tracy will probably be released.

Another thing that Sullivan points out is that Lou Piniella has quietly implemented Koyie Hill as the starting catcher. While Hill has not provided much offense for the Cubs, his defense is the main reason why he has been taking the starts away from Geovany Soto. After having a strong April, Soto’s numbers have fallen down to .266/.407/.453 with 7 home runs and 16 RBI’s, and has fallen quickly out of Lou’s favor. As if it even had to go mentioned, Sullivan reports that the Cubs have no interest in White Sox Catcher A.J. Pierzynski.

Jon Paul Morosi, of Fox Sports, is another baseball writer that believes the Cubs will try to trade Kosuke Fukudome before the trading deadline. As if Lou was serious when he said he is going to put Tyler Colvin in the lineup everyday, there is not longer a place for Fukudome on this team. However, as Morosi notes, it is going to be extremely difficult for the Cubs to be able to trade him. Given that he has no trade clause that for 15 teams, and he is still owed $21MM over the next two seasons it will be difficult to trade him. The Cubs may have a match with the Red Sox, as they are looking for a outfielder, and they could match up bad contracts with Mike Lowell, and then have the Cubs take on majority of Fukudome’s salary in 2011.  Morosi, also suggests that the Cubs entertain the idea of trading Ryan Theriot.

Sports Illustrated baseball insider Jon Heyman is reporting that it is likely that the Cubs will trade Xavier Nady to help clear the logjam the Cubs have in the outfield. This move is one that I’ sure many have seen coming, as Nady just is not a fit with a National League team. Which is why he will most likely be traded to an American League team where he can either DH or play first base. The Angels are thought to have some interest in Nady. If remember the Cubs elected for Nady over Johnny Gomes, who might I add, currently leads the National League in RBI’s.