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This has been a busy afternoon here. Here's more Cubs information, via Tribune beat writer Mark Gonzales:
Cubs claimed infielder Mat Gamel off waivers from Milwaukee
— Mark Gonzales (@MDGonzales) October 3, 2013
Gamel was once a top prospect for the Brewers; he was a fourth-round pick in 2005 and put up big numbers in their minor-league system (.310/.372/.540 with 28 HR and 96 RBI in Triple-A in 2011, for example). He was expected to take over for Prince Fielder at first base and produce power numbers.
Unfortunately, he has not been able to stay healthy; he missed almost the entire 2013 season with a knee injury.
Theo & Co. have been having pretty good luck with injury reclamation projects with pitchers; now they turn their attention to a position player. Gamel, if healthy, could back up Anthony Rizzo at first base and possibly even play a little third (he was primarily a third baseman at the lower minor-league levels). He's 28. Good, low-risk, possible high-reward pickup. There hasn't yet been any word on who will be removed from the 40-man roster to make room, but I have an idea or two (Darnell McDonald? Brett Jackson?).