Cubs Bullpen Session

–I wonder what Mark McGwire didn’t like about Sammy Sosa?

According to former Cub Steve Trachsel, who served up McGwire’s record-setting 62nd home run in 1998, cheater Mac was never a fan of cheater Sammy.

–Lou Piniella, however, feels bad for McGwire saying:

“It was difficult doing what he did. It was probably something that needed to be done. America forgives and forgets. I don’t think there is anybody out there that hasn’t done something that they don’t feel sorry for.”

“I would probably think that down the road he will be a Hall of Famer. Maybe not in the first few ballots, but people tend to forget, and rightfully so.”

–Mark Grudzielanek signed a minor-league deal with the Cleveland Indians. I always thought the former Cubs second baseman was a bit under appreciated, and not just during his two-year stay in Chicago.

He carries a .290 lifetime batting average, including .314 with the Cubs, and plays solid defense, which includes a Gold Glove Award with Kansas City in ‘06.

–The Cubs continue to eye-ball right-handed reliever Kiko Calero. He managed his best season last year with Florida posting a 2-2 record and 1.95 ERA in 67 games. Through seven seasons his overall record is 14-12 with a 3.24 ERA. I’d say sign him up!

–The Cubs quietly moved first base coach Matt Sinatra to the front office to handle administrative duties and replaced him with Ivan DeJesus. Although Sinatra will continue to work with the catchers, he won’t be in the Cubs’ dugout during game days.

–The Cubs would love to bring back Reed Johnson as a fourth outfielder, but Johnson wants more playing time. If the popular Cub comes down in asking price and submits to more of a bench role it’s likely he’ll be resigned. If not, Reed’s probably playing elsewhere in 2010.

–The Annual Len & Bob Bash is tonight at the House of Blues. Tickets are still available (312.923.2000) for the 7pm show which also includes performances by G. Love, Special Sauce and The Baseball Project.

All proceeds benefit the Chicago Cubs Charities. Good music, good cause!