MLB Trade Speculation: Why Alfonso Soriano Won't Be on the Move

With the MLB trade deadline only a few days away and arguably the biggest name, Carlos Beltran, taken off the market, there are at least a few names left rumored to be on the move.

Just don't expect the Chicago Cubs' Alfonso Soriano to be one of them.

There was early speculation that Soriano could be back with the New York Yankees and while he is not opposed to waiving his no-trade rights, it's hard to see anyone take him and his massive contract, especially at the age of 35.

With $18 million owed to him for each of the next three seasons, Soriano's contract makes him borderline untouchable, especially when he's been hitting .249. Compare that to the 2007 season when he finished .299 and led the team in home runs, runs and triples.

The Cubs have stated that should the right offer come their way, they would not mind absorbing a high percentage of the more than $60 million left on his deal, however how much remains to be seen.

General manager Jim Hendry has been vocal about moving players not vital to the Cubs' future, hinting at moving big name players to make room for a younger crop.

The big question lies in Soriano's contract. He's owed big money, but even if the Cubs eat up a large portion of his contract, prospective teams are left to wonder if he is even worth the risk.

Soriano could definitely end up as a designated hitter until the end of his contract, but as the days pass it seems increasingly unlikely.

So, as the deadline approaches, first baseman Carlos Pena might be the only one leaving Chicago, because it looks as though Soriano will be a Cub still.