NEWSLETTER
The Chicago Cubs are looking to fill some holes in the outfield, of which there are currently two: center field and primary reserve. Free agent Cub Reed Johnson could fill either role, but for whatever reason, the Cubs seem eager to look elsewhere first.
One option to fill the reserve role is Colorado Rockies outfielder Ryan Spilborghs, about whom the Cubs have contacted the Rockies.
On the trade front, major league sources tell ESPNChicago.com the Cubs and Rockies have had conversations about a trade that could send outfielder Ryan Spilborghs to the Cubs. He’s a solid defensive outfielder who can play all three outfield positions and would come in as the Cubs’ fourth outfielder, the role previously held by Reed Johnson. ESPN Chicago.
As a reserve, the Cubs could certainly do worse. Spilborghs was an excellent reserve in 2007 and 2008 before struggling last year as a nominal starter. Predictably, he’s hit much, much better at Coors Field (.861 OPS) than away from it (.730 OPS). Still, a guy that plays literally all over the outfield, has decent speed off the bench,can hit at least a little bit, and is going to be cheap in salary for a couple more years is a guy the Cubs could use.
One has to wonder how much the Rockies will ask, however. Spilborghs is just one year removed from hitting .313 with an .875 OPS in 89 games in 2008.
