NEWSLETTER
The Chicago Cubs just did what most of us have been expecting/hoping for/dreaming of for about seven months: they released Carlos Silva.
It was clear that there was not going to be a trade partner, particularly after his recent rant against the organization. When Silva was informed of the roster decision, he took a shot at pitching coach Mark Riggins, and criticized the organization for what he considered a farcical fifth starter competition. Would you make a trade offer knowing that the guy was sure to be released?
The Cubs will be responsible for the $11.5 million remaining on his contract (less $6 million they received from the Mariners last year, and less the Major League minimum if another team signs him). I say kudos to the organization for having the balls to recognize a sunk cost, and drop the dead weight. And I say kudos to me for avoiding the obvious weight joke.
With Silva’s departure, the long, sordid saga that began with the improvident Milton Bradley signing is at a close. Silva did more for the Cubs in 2010 than Bradley did for the Mariners in 2010 after the teams swapped the two malcontents, but ultimately, both proved to be so harmful off the field that carrying them on the field was no longer an option. Time to learn from mistakes made.
And, as I said before, Carlos: please, let the door hit you on the way out.
