Cubs Knock On Wood, Mets Knocking On Octavio Dotel’s Door

The Cubs made sure they hung on to their one-time phenom, Kerry Wood, if only for just one more year.

The contract guarantees him $4.2 million and Wood can earn an additional $3.45 million in performance bonuses. It appears that Kerry Wood turned down offers that were much more lucrative and longer as well.

Wow, what a steal. I sure would have loved to see Kerry Wood in a Mets uniform. I have always loved his makeup and desire. You cant fault him for being loyal to the franchise that bore him, it’s just another one of his redeeming qualities.

However, it does take another quality arm out of the free agent pool. Some of the New York newspapers and sports sites are reporting that the Mets have engaged relievers Shawn Chacon and Octavio Dotel.  

I think either of them would be upgrades over Mota or Sele who have since been banished. Of the two I like Octavio Dotel a little bit better than Chacon, because he has some experience as a closer and looked very sharp at times last season.

In 33 games last season, Dotel went 2-1 with a 4.11 ERA pitching for the Royals and the Braves. His velocity got better as the year wore on, and he struck out well over a batter per inning. He is expected to be fully healthy to start the season for the first time in a few years.

I think he would be a great addition to the bullpen.