Latest news and rumors: Rizzo’s wedding, Machado’s decision and more |
An early edition of The Hot Corner Today, as I know, many of you are consumed with the college bowl games. The big one relating to CubsHQ (we have “family” there) is the Cotton Bowl (Notre Dame vs. Clemson), which will be played today at 3:00 PM Central.
Things are starting to shake in the world of baseball as well, and as always, check back frequently with CubsHQ for the latest.
Cubs’ 2019 Opening Day: 89 days. Congratulations: Congrats are in order for Anthony Rizzo, and his fiancé, Emily- the two are tying the knot in Florida on Saturday after becoming engaged in June of 2017. Rizzo will be joined by several former teammates including Dexter Fowler, David Ross, and Eric Hinske. Fowler’s daughter, Naya, will serve as the flower girl for the ceremony. The Captain’s wedding celebration, featuring the wonderful flower girl. (Via @aliyafowler). pic.twitter.com/uini09Epx9
Birthday wishes: Happy birthday, Theo Epstein. The Cubs’ VP of Baseball Operations turns 45 today.
Manny Machado: Has Machado decided…finally? According to Dan Clark of the Baseball Writers Association of America, Machado has weighed his offers and options and is expected to sign with the Yankees. Per Clark, he will be announcing in “early 2019.” Have heard that the #Yankees, #Phillies, and #WhiteSox have all made their final offers to Manny Machado, and it is indeed New York where he’ll be heading. Announcement expected early-January.
Jose Martinez: The White Sox, Rays and Astros are all reported to be “involved” with the Cardinals in talks regarding Martinez. MLB Trade Rumors: In their continuing look around the league, MLBTR has named what they perceive to be the Cubs’ three biggest needs: (1) Solidify the backend of the bullpen, (2) See if Heyward’s albatross can be moved with a cash incentive, and (3) Add depth in the upper minors. In my opinion, the bullpen and the minors may take a little work, but offloading Heyward’s massive contract is going to take a small miracle. 2019 HOF Ballot: Next years ballot is out and includes the names: Rick Ankiel, Jason Bay, Lance Berkman, Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Freddy Garcia, Jon Garland, Travis Hafner, Ted Lilly, Derek Lowe, Edgar Martinez, Fred McGriff, Mike Mussina, Darren Oliver, Roy Oswalt, Andy Pettitte, Mariano Rivera, Scott Rolen, Curt Schilling, Gary Sheffield, Sammy Sosa, Miguel Tejada, Omar Vizquel and Billy Wagner. Angels: The Angels have reached a deal with the free-agent catcher, Jonathon Lucroy. The deal is reported to be one-year, $3.35M. With incentives, Lucroy can earn up to $4.525M for 2019. The Angels are also now showing interest in free-agent 2B, Josh Harrison and free-agent reliever, David Robertson. Dodgers: Although Nick Castellanos is still in the mix, Los Angeles is now trying to re-sign Yasmani Grandal in the wake of the Puig and Kemp trade in an attempt to add more right-handed power. Mariners: Seattle is reported as being “increasingly comfortable” that they’ll be able to trade newly acquired 1B/DH Edwin Encarnacion before spring training opens. The White Sox, Rays and Astros are all currently showing interest. Padres: In addition to targeting David Robertson, JT Realmuto, and Corey Kluber, San Diego is now also showing interest in Noah Syndergaard. Rangers: Texas re-signs RHP Adrian Sampson to a minor league deal. Yankees: NY reporting that thus far, Milwaukee is the only team in the running to land pitcher, Sonny Gray, through a trade.Cubs’ news and notes
Latest news and rumors from around the league
