The Cubs are lovable, but no longer comfortable as lovable losers. With lofty expectations and growing frustration with outfield production, Chicago inquired again Tuesday about center fielder Preston Wilson.
The Rockies have shopped Wilson, a free agent at season’s end, but the Cubs have shown the most interest, while also focusing on Oakland’s Mark Kotsay.
Two factors emerged that could help accelerate negotiations. Wilson admitted before the game that he would be open to financial concessions to help facilitate a deal. And reliever Todd Wellemeyer, among the prospects the Rockies are seeking, was demoted this past weekend, perhaps influencing his availability.
“I have conversations with a lot of teams,” Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd said. “I think you can understand why I can’t get into specifics.”
Wilson has $6.3 million remaining on his contract, a hefty price that looms large in all discussions. The Rockies want prospects – ideally shortstop Ronny Cedeño, who was called up Tuesday – and approximately $4 million in salary relief. It’s hard to accomplish both, which is why Wilson’s flexibility could play a role.
“If I have a chance to go win, I would do what it takes to help the team(s) to make that happen,” said Wilson, who broke up Roger Clemens’ no-hit bid with a 422-foot fourth-inning home run.
Outfielder Gabe Kapler and reliever Todd Jones deferred money owed by the Rockies to pave their exits.
Cubs general manager Jim Hendry has a history of making big moves in July, but it’s unclear whether Chicago would part with the type of young players the Rockies are seeking. The New York Yankees also are pursuing Kotsay.
DeJean eases back in
Released by the Mets with a 3-1 record and 6.31 ERA, Mike DeJean is eager for a fresh start in Colorado, his stay in New York spoiled by a leg injury and ineffectiveness.
“First and foremost, I didn’t pitch well,” DeJean said. “My workload was very inconsistent. It wasn’t the job I signed up for.”
DeJean will throw a second consecutive bullpen session for pitching coach Bob Apodaca today, followed by a simulated game Friday in St. Louis, at which point DeJean could be activated. Matt Anderson, who has a minor-league option remaining, is the likely odd man out.
Footnotes
Dr. James Andrews recommended rehabilitation for Rockies reliever Blaine Neal after an exam Monday. Neal has an inflamed elbow and may not throw for up to a month. … Shawn Chacon, out with a strained left hamstring, has at least one rehab start remaining. He said he felt fine Sunday, “except when (Fresno) beat me around in the second inning.”
