Analysis: Cubs Acquire Gregg

Another trade today before the start of free agency, as the Cubs acquire righthanded reliever Kevin Gregg from the Marlins for minor league pitcher Jose Ceda. Here's what to make of it... The Marlins' quasi-fire sale continues, as Florida once again seems determined to get rid of anyone making seven figures. It's a little different than past go-arounds, as the Marlins are committed to building around Hanley Ramirez after signing him to a six-year, $70 million extension in May, and that unlike in other flurries of Florida trades, the Marlins aren't just making moves for the sole sake of reducing payroll. Just as the Marlins had internal options to replace Scott Olsen and Josh Willingham, so too do they have someone already in place to take over for Gregg. In this case, the takeover already has happened, as Gregg lost his closer's job to Matt Lindstrom, the fireballing former Mets prospect. With Gregg eligible for arbitration and one year shy of free agency, the Marlins weren't about to give ... (link)