As we approach the winter meetings, all kinds of crazy rumors are making the rounds.  First and foremost is a possible three-way deal between the Rangers, A’s, and Cubs as reported by Sunday’s edition of the Chicago Tribune.  WSCR, a radio station in Chicago, has cited tomorrow’s Phil Rogers column about the trade.

The details:  The Cubs send Kerry Wood and $6MM to the Rangers for Kevin Mench.  The Cubs would also surrender Todd Walker and prospects and would receive Barry Zito from Oakland.  It’s unclear what prospects would go Oakland’s way, although it’s fair to speculate Beane would ask for #1 prospect Felix Pie.  Thanks to Alex and Mike for passing it along, and you can read a message board thread on the deal here.

My opinion?  Doesn’t sound valid in the proposed form.  As mentioned on the Inside The Ivy message board, it sounds more like a Phil Rogers opinion column.  Rogers can’t be reached to confirm the rumor.  The Cubs have plenty of starting pitcher and outfielder options on the table, and can make a deal without surrendering Pie.  Given that Beane holds the cards with six starters, only the Cubs’ very best could entice him.  I don’t think this deal happens.

I’ve also been informed that George Ofman from WSCR is reporting that Rafael Furcal will make his final decision by noon CST on December 4th.  It’s still unknown which way he’s leaning.  It’s well-known that the Dodgers have put in a three-year, $39MM bid for the shortstop.  The offer is a smart one and mitigates L.A.’s risk nicely.  Given that it could bring Furcal more money in both the short and long term, the Dodgers must be a serious option.

A source in the Red Sox organization mentions that the Cubs have interest in 31 year-old right fielder Trot Nixon.  Nixon hasn’t had 500 at-bats since 2002, but he’s hit well when healthy.  Nixon mashes right-handers but struggles mightily with southpaws.  The Red Sox are rumored to have interest in Corey Patterson.

Thanks to Alex, Mike, Nick, and Cody