Another Day In Rumors

The Chicago Cubs rumor mill quickly was a buzzing today, as an early tweet by Ken Rosenthal had the Cubs and Dodgers discussing a trade that would send Ted Lilly, and Ryan Theriot to the Dodgers. As of now, it is not clear if the Dodgers still have interest in package deal of Ted Lilly and Ryan Theriot. The one thing that is clear, is that the Dodgers are still very much alive in the Lilly sweepstakes.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have been showing strong interest for the past three weeks now in Lilly, and they are believed to be the favorites to land Lilly. However, the Dodgers are having conversations with the Pittsburgh Pirates about left handed starter Paul Maholm. But, in my opinion the Dodgers are probably using Maholm as leverage against the Cubs. The Dodgers want the Cubs to add in more cash to deal to cover the remaining $4MM on Lilly’s contract. While that remains a sticking a point, the Cubs and Dodgers are still heavy conversations, and George Ofman of WGN Sports is reporting that the two sides are getting closer.

The New York Yankees are also making a hard push to acquire Ted Lilly. First reported by Bruce Levine, and later confirmed by Gordon Wittenmyer.

According to Bruce Levine, the Cubs are seeking a young starting pitcher, who doesn’t have to be in the major league but close, and a left handed bat in any package for Ted Lilly. It is believed that a Dodgers package could revolve around young starter John Ely, and potentially second baseman Blake Dewitt. But, Dewitt may not be involved since the Cubs would only be sending Ted Lilly. As for the Yankees, it is not entirely sure what they are offering the Cubs. The Cubs could have interest in one of their catching prospects Jesus Montero. Montero could be shifted to first, and has shown raw power in the minor leagues so far.

Also in the Bruce Levine report, as well as being reported on ESPN 1000, the Arizona Diamondbacks are said to be interested in Ryan Theriot, and are dangling second baseman Kelly Johnson. Although, the Cubs probably would have to throw in another player to get the deal done. If this indeed the case, I would make the deal in a heartbeat. Johnson on the year is hitting .277/.365/.500 this year while belting out 17 home runs and driving in 51 runners. Johnson, is left handed which the Cubs seek. At age 28, Johnson could just now be entering his prime.