FanPost

2 interesting notes from Phil Rogers column

I know, I know, most people here think Phil Rogers columns in the Trib are only good for paper training the puppy, but there were a couple of nuggets in the whispers today...

Phil Rogers Whispers

The Cubs are hoping they can develop their own Prince Fielder in Florida high school first baseman Dan Vogelbach, whom they selected in the second round of the draft. Scouting director Tim Wilken normally likes ultra-athletic players, but he fell in love with the 5-foot-11, 240-pounder's big-time power and was impressed that he dropped about 40 pounds from his junior to senior year. Sources indicate the Cubs are finalizing his signing, which could be for almost $1 million more than the slot recommendation. He has committed to the University to Florida.
Now I find this interesting in light of all the criticism of the Cubs last year being so cheap with their signing bonuses to their draft choices. Combine this with the money they put out for Zeke DeVoss and the money it looks like they will have to put out for their other draft picks, it looks like Ricketts really has loosened the purse strings to try to restock the system
The Cubs almost certainly will talk to Pat Gillick about his interest in taking on one more challenge next winter. He's not interested in being a GM but would be a terrific addition if Chairman Tom Ricketts changed his mind about having an experienced baseball/pro sports guy between him and his GM in the chain of command. …
This is indeed a good thing. Gillick will put that professional Baseball man in place that the team has needed for a long tome to help steer whoever is the GM.

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