Is Jim Hendry Exploring the 'Right' Options More from
the Cubs Rumor Mill

post from ChicagoCubsOnline.com on 19 November 2008 01:05:00 AM. © ChicagoCubsOnline.com

Several reports since the end of the season stated one of Jim Hendry's biggest off-season goals was to resign Ryan Dempster....and on Tuesday, the Cubs' General Manager was able to scratch Dempster off his 'to do list'. The Cubs and Ryan Dempster agreed to a 4-year deal that could end up paying the Cubs' best pitcher from a year ago $52 million dollars. Dempster's new deal has a player option for the fourth year worth $14 million as well as a $4 million dollar signing bonus. Dempster will earn $8 million in 2009, $12.5 million in 2010 and $13.5 million in 2011. Dempster is the first starting pitcher to sign this winter and many think he set the market with his new deal.

Once Dempster was 'signed, sealed and delivered', the Cubs rumor mill kicked back into high gear. A report from the Kansas City Star mentioned the Cubs' interest in Mark Teahen, a possibility Bruce Levine reported on Saturday the Cubs were exploring. After the Dempster announcement, Bruce Levine mentioned the Cubs' interest in Milton Bradley during his report on ESPN 1000 Tuesday afternoon...then there are the never-ending, always-changing Jake Peavy rumors. Plus, the Cubs are eyeing Rafael Furcal once again.

Here are the latest rumblings and grumblings....