The Cubs settled their arbitration with Matt Garza for a little less than half the difference. Most commentators seem to think that means the team is still shopping a guy who, though not a genuine ace, is arguably the only very good starting pitcher they have. I rather think the opposite is the case, simply because if they were really determined to trade him, they would have let the case go to arbitration. They would surely have won the award at their number, as Garza's number was just off the wall.
You have to wonder what Garza's connections are really up to. From their actions, one would suppose the two sides are amenable to an extension but pretty far away on price. I still think an extension is possible this year, but I also think Garza is gambling on having a really breakout year that is going to put him up in the $15MM range when he hits free agency. Clearly the Cubs think he is dreaming here, but they are in a good position with him. Should they contend this season, they can keep him in the knowledge he is under team control for another year. Should they flop, they are likely to be able to move him at the deadline for a good deal more than they are likely to get now.
The Cubs have designated Blake DeWitt for assignment in order to clear a roster space for Adrian Cardenas, a AAA second baseman/utility infielder they have claimed on waivers from the Oakland system. This is a smart move. DeWitt has never lived up to his promise and was a rather superfluous addition to the team once they acquired Ian Stewart from the Rockies to play third base. I had thought they might get something for DeWitt, and maybe they still will.
Cardenas is four years younger, a good deal more versatile, and looks like a reasonably patient left-handed hitting prospect. He was once rated among the top ten A's prospects, but the organization seems to have given up on him.
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