The Chicago Cubs acquired right-handed relief pitcher Luis Vizcaino in exchange for fifth starter Jason Marquis earlier this winter. The trade was sold to fans as the Cubs moving a high-paid veteran for bullpen depth.
Time to call bull.
The Chicago Tribune is reporting that Vizcaino is in danger of not coming north with the Cubs this Spring, likely making him a free agent. Is anyone really surprised?
Vizcaino's numbers in 2008 were...not good. While he did win a game last year (to only two losses), his 5.28 ERA and 1.46 WHIP lead anyone to wonder how this guy is still in the majors. Helen Keller had a better chance of getting a left-hander out last year. Vizcaino allowed eight home runs and 17 runs in 17.1 innings against lefties last year.
Did I mention that he'll be 35-years-old in August, and he's making $3.5 million in 2009?
When the Cubs dealt Marquis to Colorado, I called it a fire sale of a deal with no expectation that Vizcaino would make the Cubs roster. In fact, if Vizcaino makes the Cubs roster, I still believe the team won't win their division.
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