The Cardinals, Brewers, Reds, Cubs and Astros have all grabbed headlines on MLBTR today. Here's the latest on the NL Central, starting with a longtime Pirates pitcher…
- Left-hander Paul Maholm told Kevin Kennedy and Jim Duquette on MLB Network Radio that he wanted to sign with an NL Central team. The Pirates expressed some interest in the left-hander, but the Cubs ultimately signed him.
- Cubs GM Jed Hoyer told Casey Stern and Jim Bowden on MLB Network Radio that he wanted to sign Maholm because of his youth, sinker and competitiveness.
- Hoyer says the Cubs are happy to have obtained some starting pitching depth and downplayed the idea that Matt Garza will be dealt now that Maholm's aboard. "Because we have six starters doesn't mean we're going to pare down to five by any means," he said.
- Cincinnati second baseman Brandon Phillips told told Stern and Bowden he was happy to see the Reds pick his option up earlier in the offseason. He says he’s now focused on the upcoming season and doesn’t sound optimistic that an extension will be finalized any time soon. Phillips expressed his desire for an extension earlier in the offseason, explaining that he’s not going to give the Reds a hometown discount. "There’s no homeboy hookup. That ain’t going to work," Phillips said.
“There’s no homeboy hookup. That ain’t going to work.” That has to be one of the best quotes of the offseason. The only Reds related quote that I can think of is that is better Jim Bowden tweeting after the the Latos trade, “The Padres just tebowed the Padres.”
Boras should try that line in future negotiations.
In My opinion The Maholm signing is great, i Predicted this signing for the contest. And wanted him to be a cub.
But now i see a deal for Garza happening real soon. And If if does happen, Then Kerry Wood will resign. I know your probably thinking How does a Garza trade Bring wood back? but i could see the Money Garza woulda made in Arbitration going to Wood.
Sorry for the rambling, its bed time.
Phillips would look good in another uni if Reds could get back a real good leadoff outfielder—I dont think in his case a big contract helps anyone,but him
right he should keep playing like one of the best second baseman while not getting paid like it. nothing wrong with what he is making but when you see what other lesser players are getting I see his point. and who do the reds have to replace him? stop with the small market excuse and sign him to 3-4 year deal.
good luck with maholm , he is a innings eater and give up 4-5 runs a game but eat innings , poor innings but innings