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Well, since we're at it regarding trade rumors this afternoon -- see what kind of trouble I can get into when there's no game until 9 p.m. CT? -- let's examine the trade potential for Kevin Gregg.
Let's face it: If Gregg had had the year he's having now in 2009, we might be reminiscing about three straight postseason appearances. Not that Gregg alone could have done that, but he did have five blown saves that year, three of them as the Cubs were spinning out of contention in August. The Cubs finished just 7½ games behind the Cardinals. Who knows?
Anyway, Gregg is having by far the best year of his career to date, with 12 saves, no blown saves, a 1.42 ERA, 0.987 WHIP and 26 strikeouts in 25⅓ innings.
He turned 35 last week. He's certainly not part of this team's future, and credit to Theo and Jed and the scouting staff for finding him on the scrap heap after the Dodgers released him at the end of spring training.
Now, there are at least two teams interested. The Rockies:
The club is aggressively scouting pitchers across the majors, including Brewers starting right-hander Yovani Gallardo and Cubs starting right-hander Matt Garza. The Rockies also are taking a look at Cubs closer Kevin Gregg.
You'll note that the Rox can be added to the list of those interested in Garza. Also, the Braves, who have a connection to Gregg:
Atlanta manager Fredi Gonzalez utilized Gregg as his closer while they were together with the Marlins in 2OO7 and 'O8.
Gregg has done a really good job. The Cubs don't have anyone who can step in right away and close games, unless you think James Russell could close (I, for one, think he could; there's no reason a lefty couldn't be used in that role). Maybe the Cubs should wait a bit on Gregg, to see if they can get more teams interested and start a bidding war.
So what would you want for Gregg? Vote in the poll, weigh in below.