UPDATE: The Cubs ended up trading Gathright for Freel straight up, after our original post, which appears below.Whether it's Steve Trachsel, Corey Patterson, Felix Pie or Rich Hill, the Cubs and Orioles seem to really enjoy talking trades with each other. It makes a bit of sense, considering Jim Hendry and Andy MacPhail worked together as members of the Cubs front office for several years, because they probably feel very comfortable with each other and like many of the same players. The most recent rumor is utility player Ryan Freel.
According to Ken Rosenthal, the Cubs are interested in the services of Freel, who was acquired in the offseason by the Orioles. Freel is a bit frustrated with sitting on the bench for the O's, and he's still owed over $3 million this season.
The move actually makes sense for the Cubs. Considering how well Kosuke Fukudome has adapted to center field and how adequately Micah Hoffpauir can play right field, Chicago don't really seem to have much use for Joey Gathright. Instead, they could use his spot for a guy who can play infield. Freel could handle second or third base, while being able to provide outfield depth if it becomes necessary. Plus, he's a better hitter than Gathright. Freel sports a career .274 batting average and .357 on-base percentage compared to .262 and .327 for Gathright.
Of course, knowing how slowly MacPhail moves in trade talks, they may not have time to get the deal done before the trade deadline.
