With the looming "Albert Pujols Extension Deadline" quickly approaching, it was widely believed that the two sides would ultimately not agree in time.They were simply too far apart in both years and average annual salary, and Pujols may view the open market as a gold mine.It is never entirely out of the question that an agreement can be reached, but "The Machine" wants no part of a year-long distracting negotiation. He will enter camp without a deal, and subsequently remain without one until season's end.This inevitably breeds rampant speculation as to his whereabouts in 2012, potential trade packages, what teams ...
The Chicago Cubs have hired Mike Quade as permanent manager for 2011 and beyond, and have officially removed his interim tag from 2010.He did a fantastic job in his short time as skipper in Chicago, and deserved this opportunity after a long career in the minors.Did he deserve the spot over Cubs hero and fan favorite Ryne Sandberg, however? Many fans may disagree, much like the dispute in New York over Don Mattingly's prospects of managing before Joe Girardi's eventual hire.That said, it is far more important for the Cubs to hire someone who already knows the players, and is ...
