Bruce Levine

  (1:15 PM)

I told you both GMs were going to be active. Yee of little faith. And I doubt that they are both done at this point. The Sox would love to sign Rafael Soriano. Moneywise it won't work right now. Welcome ...

Orv (Taylorville, IL)

With the waiver claim of Max Ramirez, are Koyie Hill's days as the backup catcher numbered?

Bruce Levine

  (1:16 PM)

Not necessarily. The Cubs really like Hill. But they also have Welington Castillo on a fast track as well so it's not just Max Ramirez coming along.

Preston (Harrisonburg, VA)

Lots of $$ coming off books, is it assumed in league circles that the Cubs will target Prince next offseason? They'd still be a bat short if A-Ram were to leave, though.

Bruce Levine

  (1:17 PM)

Correct. That's the problem. They have an option on Ramirez. If they want to keep him it will cost them $15 million. Fielder will get $20-plus million. But they are worried about 2011 right now.

skip (aurora)

Are the Sox still in the discussion on Rafael Soriano and any chance they can dump Teahan for a bag of balls?

Bruce Levine

  (1:19 PM)

No chance on the latter. He's making too much money. And they think he will be a valuable backup. Soriano's agent, Scott Boras, has been looking for a three- or four-year contract and he wants Rivera-type money. So far the fish ain't biting on that proposal. The Sox would still love to have him. He would definitely complete what would be one of the stronger bullpens in baseball.

Demo (Addison, IL)

I believe giving up our top prospects for Matt Garza was a bad idea. Garza's numbers in the past years are suspect. What do you think of the trade??

Bruce Levine

  (1:21 PM)

I think it's a wait and see. Top prospects are just that. Garza is a major league pitcher who won 15 games last year and has averaged 197 innings the past three years. The Cubs feel they are covered in all areas from this trade. Let's see how it works out.

Jason (WI)

Gut feeling does Cashner start or in bullpen?

Bruce Levine

  (1:21 PM)

The consensus is that he will be a starter in spring training. The other variable is that he pushes one of the other candidates in what should be a lively competition for the fourth and fifth spots.

Adel (Chicago, IL)

Any trade scenarios for Edwin Jackson?

Bruce Levine

  (1:22 PM)

I haven't heard any at this point. There have been rumors about the Sox trading Danks, Floyd, Buehrle. I believe they are staying with the starting group they have especially with the uncertain status of Peavy.

Eli (Chicago)

Did the Cubs make a similar offer for Greinke? If not, why not?

Bruce Levine

  (1:24 PM)

The Cubs were not in a Greinke mode because of the $26 million he was owed. They talked about it in meetings but their payroll could not afford a pitcher making that much.

Jay (Chicago)

I hear different experts offer different opinions on Archer's ceiling. I've heard #2 all the way to back-of-the-rotation guy. What do you say?

Bruce Levine

  (1:25 PM)

Nobody is that smart. What we do know is that he made great strides last year. He seems to have a power arm. Command of his pitches are the only question. If he stays healthy he will probably be a good pitcher. That's as far as my expertise will take you.

Joe (Chicago)

Are the Sox going to resign Freddy Garcia? He had an amazing year last season. What salary is he looking for?

Bruce Levine

  (1:26 PM)

I have not heard any Freddy talk. At this point the Sox couldn't promise him a starter's role. That will be either Sale, Harrell or another young pitcher.

Thomas (MI)

What's the latest word on the renovation plans? Anything new? Also why do you think they did the new ticket plan? Just a way to sell more tickets...I think they're worried about ticket sales dropping.

Bruce Levine

  (1:28 PM)

I agree that they are looking for creative ways to sell tickets. There is nothing wrong with that. However, the Cubs don't have to worry much about averaging 35,000 people a game. What they want to do is average 40,000. The Cubs are re-structuring theur business plan. The city and state have both shown interest in talking to the Cubs about a creative plan to renovate the ballpark.

James (Chicago)

I keep hearing that the Sox are out of money. Yet they keep spending away. Do you think because of the recent signings that they have a deal they are discussing to drop payroll?

Bruce Levine

  (1:29 PM)

I doubt it. Reinsdorf made a commitment to go for it this year. I think they try to win every year but they've thrown $13 million more at their payroll than they ever have. The Sox are hoping to respond by fans buying more tickets.

Colmone (Gary's Basement)

I recently read a rumor about Fukudome and Gorzelanny going to the Angels for Willits and Kazmir. Have you heard it or is there any truth to it?

Bruce Levine

  (1:31 PM)

Have not heard it. Interesting names. I'll look into it.

Marty (Monee)

Jared Mitchell---when can I expect to see this kid swiping bases at the cell?

Bruce Levine

  (1:32 PM)

He's going to need a year in the minors after coming back from a broken leg.

John (Atlanta, ga)

Do you think the acquisitions of Garza, Wood and Pena along with the core of young players are enough to compete in an improved NL Central in 2011?

Bruce Levine

  (1:33 PM)

It'a always interesting to look at teams on paper. Last year on paper the Reds were picked by most to finish third orfourth. I believe the Cubs have put themselves back in position to compete which is all you can really ask. The rest is up to Mike Quade and Co. to get it done.

Tom (Chicago)

Do you have a HOF vote, and would Blyleven have gotten it?

Bruce Levine

  (1:34 PM)

I do not and yes, he would have.

PAUL (cleveland)

are carlos Q or danks going to sign an extension

Bruce Levine

  (1:35 PM)

I don't know if the Sox are offering Quentin an extension, not after a very so-so year. They have been trying to get Danks to sign long term for two years. My guess is he will continue to take it one year at a time.

charlie (chicago)

Does Hendry feel that he needs to improve the leadoff spot? That's the biggest hole they have right now from my view. Curious if Cubs see as the same issue or no.

Bruce Levine

  (1:37 PM)

It's an interesting topic. One I've broached with Cubs officials on numerous occasions. The response is always how many teams actually have a prototypical lead-off man? There are only 6-7 teams that have a speed player leading off with a .350 OBP or better. Jeter isn't exactly a speed demon so obviously OBP is more important than speed. Fukudome and Soto are the two highest OBP guys from last year.

Amer (Chi)

Harold Baines got 4.8% for the HOF, so is there no way he can be eligible now?

Bruce Levine

  (1:38 PM)

He can be voted in by veterans' committe. Just have to wait a bit.

Steve (Milwaukee)

As of right now would you say 1.Stl, 2. Cin, 3. Milw, 4. Chi in NL Central?

Bruce Levine

  (1:39 PM)

I kind of like Milwaukee right now. The key is goign to be the bullpen, and if their young closer closer can continue to do a good job.

mike (cleveland)

who gets more saves this year. sale or thornton

Bruce Levine

  (1:40 PM)

I'll go with Thornton. He'll probably have 7 or 8.

Kevin (San Diego)

How is the market for Fukudome and Gorz still look?

Bruce Levine

  (1:40 PM)

I don't think all that good for Fukudome. The Cubs have heard from 4-5 for Gorzelanny. Baltimore and Detroit are two of the teams, although Tigers just signed Penney.

Phil (Chicago )

It's looking like Blake DeWitt is the leadoff hitter. Cubs have any other options assuming Fukudome is on the bench or traded?

Bruce Levine

  (1:41 PM)

Lots of options. Castro could be the guy, depending on whether he sees enough pitches.

Bill (north side)

Does Hendry still have the Rangers on speed dial or are those trade possibilities on the back burner now?

Bruce Levine

  (1:42 PM)

Looks like those deals are not going to happen at this point. Chirinos was the key for Texas.

Aneeq (Miami, Fl)

Have there been talks on any team signing Crede or Dye?

Bruce Levine

  (1:42 PM)

Haven't heard on either.

Illini Bill (Rockville, VA)

I think the Sox need improve their outfield defense and could have done it with Fred Lewis. What do you think?

Bruce Levine

  (1:43 PM)

Fred Lewis is a nice backup player. Not an everday guy. Eighth or ninth inning guy at best.

Jamie (Waterloo, IN)

The Cubs opening day outfield will be? _____________

Bruce Levine

  (1:43 PM)

Soriano, Byrd and Colvin.

Bobby (Des Plaines)

Ive heard some things that the cubs are saving for pujols next year? Could this actually happen?

Bruce Levine

  (1:44 PM)

Anything is possible. The Cubs have the money to purchase anyone they want. Just depends.

Illini Bill (Rockville, VA)

Who will get the most saves for the White Sox this year?

Bruce Levine

  (1:44 PM)

Sergio Santos.

Brad Feather (Chicago, Illinois)

With the aquisition of Garza, what will the Cubs final rotation look like? I assume pretty heavy on the rightys again. Also, will the Cubs still be utilizing a 6 man outfield rotation? Please say no....

Bruce Levine

  (1:45 PM)

Highly doubtful on the six-man outfield. Dempster, Garza, Zambrano, Cashner and Samardzija.

Elmer Fudd (Chicago)

Is Matt Garza, at best, a number 2 in the rotation...most likely a number 3? Where do the Cubs project him?

Bruce Levine

  (1:46 PM)

200 IP, 15 wins makes you a 1 or 2 on a decent team. Cubs feel his best days are still way ahead of him.

Ladas (Chicago)

Rumors true you were consultant for filming of movie Moneyball?

Bruce Levine

  (1:46 PM)

No but I consult Tom Hanks on chewing tobacco in "A League Of Their Own." He wasn't a very good student.

Mike (Chicago)

With Buehrle, Jackson, Peavy, and Danks the white sox have to be considered one of the best Rotations in the League, No?

Bruce Levine

  (1:47 PM)

It's a good rotation. But you can't include Peavy at this point. Buehrle's win total has been way down over the last 6 seasons from Aug. 1 on. One question is whether he's thrown too many innnings.

Alan (Buffalo Grove)

Who plays third when A-Ram takes his annual stints on the DL this year?

Bruce Levine

  (1:48 PM)

Jeff Baker and DeWitt can handle it.

Drew (Chicago)

Ramirez, Soriano, and Pena have been in decline for the past 2-3 seasons, why would they suddenly turn that around?

Bruce Levine

  (1:49 PM)

Good question. I don't know if Ramirez has been in decline, he was injured in 2009 and put up big numbers for 81 games. Last year was a tale of two different halves. We'll see.

John (Chicago)

Would it be wise to trade away Gorzelanny? I mean he is our only left handed starter. It would make mor sense to trade someone else.

Bruce Levine

  (1:49 PM)

It's great to be left-handed, and even greater to be effective. I thought he suffered from a lack of run support. But the Cubs feel they can possibly do without him.

Phil (Chicago )

In your projected rotation, are Gorzelanny and Wells in the bullpen or traded? On Samardzjia, do you feel he will earn the spot or the fact that he is out of options play into the decision?

Bruce Levine

  (1:50 PM)

He's out of options. They'll give him a great shot to make the team. If not, Wells and Gorz if he stays will battle for the fifth spot.

Aaron (Chicago)

Samardzija? I know hes out of opt but should we really buy into this year is the year for him again? Also all righties seems like a bad idea?

Bruce Levine

  (1:52 PM)

Didn't really impact the 2003 Cubs. Lots of teams have won without a left-handed starter. But I'm with you. I'd like to have a little different type pitcher going in a series. This will be Jeff's final shot. The organization still believes in him and he believes in himself. Let's see what happens.

Matt (Chicago)

Do the sox pull another off last minute deal and sign soriano to even a 1 year deal?

Bruce Levine

  (1:52 PM)

Probably not what Boras has in mind. I don't see the Sox putting up $10M for him, either. Then again, Jerry and Kenny always surprise me.

BJ (Indiana)

Where will Randy Wells end up?

Bruce Levine

  (1:53 PM)

Either in the rotation, a long man or back at Triple-A. He does have an option left.

Dre ( the 757)

Do you think Brett Jackson or Vitters will be up this season? What do you think the lineup will look like opening day?

Bruce Levine

  (1:54 PM)

If Vitters and Jackson are in the lineup by June, that's probably not going to be a good sign. DeWitt, Castro, Pena, Ramirez, Byrd, Colvin, Soriano, Soto.

Adam (Chicago)

Did the Cubs ever really consider moving Marmol? It's not like they have a closer waiting in the wings.

Bruce Levine

  (1:55 PM)

They never considered it.

Bowgren (Chicago)

I'm looking to update my Will Ohman jersey collection. Any idea as to what number he will wear for the ChiSox?

Bruce Levine

  (1:55 PM)

No idea. How about a big ?

BJ (Indiana)

What about Carlos Silva?

Bruce Levine

  (1:56 PM)

I leave him out because of the disappointing way he ended the season. If he shows up in good shape, he'll compete for a spot.

john (parma)

will gordon beckham take a step forward in his development this year?

Bruce Levine

  (1:57 PM)

I think so. The Sox still have some concerns about his swing. It has a little loop to it, but he came on strong in the last 2 months. I look for good things.

Illini Bill (Rockville, VA)

Do you think that the White Sox will try to trade for a "name" outfielder?

Bruce Levine

  (1:57 PM)

They already have names: Pierre, Rios and Quentin.

Bob (Chicago)

Do you see any scenario where Big Z gets traded before pitchers report in a couple months?

Bruce Levine

  (1:57 PM)

Zero.

Bill L (Tinley Park)

Bruce whats your opionion on the NL Central having 6 teams and the AL West having 4? Doesnt make much sense to me and it doesnt seem fair.

Bruce Levine

  (1:58 PM)

Apples and oranges. The AL only has 14 teams. NL has 16. Therefore, with 3 divisions, somebody will have to have an odd number.

Mike W (office)

How much better are the Sox going to be than the Cubs?

Bruce Levine

  (1:58 PM)

On paper, they look better. I have the Sox at 93 wins and the Cubs at 87.

Jason (South Carolina)

Does Ozzie get an extension? Or does it depend on how the Sox finish?

Bruce Levine

  (1:59 PM)

If the Sox win the division, he automatically gets one more year on his contract. If they don't, it depends what kind of season they have.

JT (Naperville)

Speaking of Vitters, do we think he will be ready to step up if A-Ram suffers a season ender? Is his patience at the plate getting any better or is he still seemingly afraid of hearing ball 4?

Bruce Levine

  (2:01 PM)

I can't tell you I know as much about him as I should. The consensus is he'll hit in the majors, defense is below average and his attitude wanders.

Adel (Chicago)

What role do you think Omar Vizquel will play this year. I doubt he will play as many games as last year.

Bruce Levine

  (2:02 PM)

Ideally you don't want him to play a lot. But he was the catalyst when they went on their 25-5 run. Vizquel is still a very solid backup.

Brian (Chicago)

With your roatation and starters for the Cubs....im now depressed. thanks

Bruce Levine

  (2:02 PM)

Don't thank me, I didn't put the 25-man roster together.

Al (Chicago)

What's the timetable on Peavy? I've heard May/June...

Bruce Levine

  (2:02 PM)

Heard all kinds of different scenarios from April-June. The Sox are on record saying they'll take it slow.

Ladas (Chicago)

Unfortunately Plesac isn't available, who do you see teaming up with Hughes ? Bill Murray, Bobby Denier, Micky Morandini, or Eric Karros

Bruce Levine

  (2:03 PM)

Right now there are 4 candidates: Gary Matthews, Keith Moreland, Dave Otto and Doug Glanville.

Tony (Decatur, IL)

A non-Chicago question: Why do people consider the Panda as a 3b when he has the body of a Prince-like 1b? Would the Cubs be interested in him if Pena has a year like last year?

Bruce Levine

  (2:04 PM)

Sandoval is not a free agent any time soon.

Jon (Prospect Heights)

Cubs bullpen this year? Marmol, Wood, Marshall and who?

Bruce Levine

  (2:05 PM)

Grabow. Don't forget, he's on his way back from injury.

Bowgren (Chicago)

Any chance Oney Guillen gets a shot at the Cubs broadcasting job? He clearly is an outspoken individual.

Bruce Levine

  (2:06 PM)

I think Oney is a talented young man who knows baseball. Little young for color commentating.

Fred (Chicago)

When will they have the Garza press conference?

Bruce Levine

  (2:06 PM)

It will be at the Cubs convention this week.

Andy (Indianapolis)

what is the word on sale? is he going to be worked as a starter

Bruce Levine

  (2:07 PM)

If you tell me whetherh they get Soriano, I can give you that answer. Right now he's in the pen.

Bowgren (Chicago)

Overall, what's your take on the Garza trade? Do you like it? Did we give up too much?

Bruce Levine

  (2:08 PM)

Can I have 3 years to answer. Right now, any time you get yourself a 15-game winner it's a good thing, especially a 27-year-old who's under your control for the next three years.

Mike (Chicago)

What happend to your "Cubs only have 6-7 million to spend" stance?

Bruce Levine

  (2:09 PM)

That's what they had. Obviously the Cubs aren't done yet. And I'm sure Mr. Ricketts signed off on a few extra million to bring in Garza.

PJ (Mount Prospect)

When was the last time the Cubs had a prospect as hyped as Strausberg or Harper? You think Harper is going to be the real deal?

Bruce Levine

  (2:10 PM)

The last time the Cubs had a prospect like that was Kerry Wood.

Paul (Longmont, CO)

Will Garza be at the Cubs Convention this weekend?

Bruce Levine

  (2:10 PM)

Yes.

Jay (Denver)

Soriano has been a bust. Why not bench him. Why accept losing over playing your best team possible. Do you think Quade has the guts (and will be supported) if he decides to do this?

Bruce Levine

  (2:11 PM)

Yes, yes and yes. I believe Soriano will be benched if he doesn't perform. Quade showed the guts to bat him seventh last year.

Fita (Chicago)

Do you think this Sox team is built to beat their division teams

Bruce Levine

  (2:11 PM)

I think Detroit and Minnesota will be tough teams to beat.

Scott (Chicago)

Which signing goes down as the most ridiculous in the future: Jayson Werth or Carl Crawford? Or perhaps Cliff Lee?

Bruce Levine

  (2:12 PM)

I'm going to go with Werth. That's mind boggling. He's a good player and might be for a couple more years, but not seven.

Dan (Merritt Island, Fl)

When do our big contracts come off the board? Soriano, Fukodome, Silva, etc and how do you think the Cubs should trade or spend in the next few years

Bruce Levine

  (2:14 PM)

Soriano has 4 years; Fukudome after this year; Silva after this year; Cubs have option on Ramirez for 2012.

joe (Chicago)

Wasn't Ohman thrown under the bus by Lou couple of years ago? Should Sox fans be concerned?

Bruce Levine

  (2:15 PM)

Only concern Sox fans should have is if he gets left-handed hitters out. The Sox have had problems controlling their clubhouse.

Geoff (Chicago)

How much better will the White Sox offense be this season if Beckham can improve from last year. I think he is the key to the offense.

Bruce Levine

  (2:15 PM)

I agree. To me, he has to be the No. 2 hitter and drive in 80-90.

Bruce Levine

  (2:16 PM)

Keep your eyes on Kenny and Hendry. They never rest or think their team is complete. Stay tuned to ESPNChicago.com and ESPN 1000 for Cubs convention coverage this weekend, including tomorrow with updates from Harry Caray's caravan luncheon.