Posted by basebal5 on Friday, January 19, 2007 at 10:18 pm

There were all kinds of things going on today. Some deals were finalized…there were conference calls…there were luncheons…Here's a synopsis of the day's activities.

 

Cubs Sign Samardzija

The Chicago Cubs today announced that the club and right-handed pitcher Jeff Samardzija have agreed to a five-year Major League contract with club options for the 2012 and 2013 seasons. Samardzija, who will focus solely on his baseball career, will report to Big League camp in Mesa, Ariz., on February 14.

 

Samardzija, 21, was Chicago’s fifth round selection in the 2006 First-Year Player Draft. He made seven starts between Single-A Boise and Single-A Peoria, posting a 2.70 combined ERA (9 ER/30.0 IP) and was named the Cubs’ fourth-best prospect by Baseball America at season’s end.

 

Samardzija was also a star wide receiver on the Notre Dame football team. He led the football team with 78 receptions and 1,017 receiving yards in 2006, his senior season, and was named first team All-America by the Football Writers Association of America. In 2005, he set Notre Dame single-season records for yards receiving (1,249) and touchdown catches (15).

 

Comments from Samardzija:

“I am pleased to announce that today I have reached an agreement on a five–year Major League contract with the Chicago Cubs.  Consequently, I will devote my full time and attention to professional baseball and forego a potential career in the National Football League.  I am honored to be given the opportunity to pursue this career path as a member of the Chicago Cubs. This is a dream come true for a kid who grew up in Northern Indiana looking up the road at this great city and its loyal fans.  I feel very comfortable that this is exactly where I belong. 

 

“Obviously, my decision means I have played my last football game.  That does not mean I have lost my passion for the game.  I will always love football.  My four years at Notre Dame – playing for the Fighting Irish – were amazing.  I could not have asked for more from my teammates, our fans, and our coaches.  I appreciate fully that another amazing experience awaited me in the NFL.  But, as much as it seemed like a real possibility last summer, I have concluded that playing two sports professionally is impossible. 

 

Indians Sign Nixon

The Cleveland Indians today announced the club has signed free agent OF Trot Nixon to a one-year Major League contract for the 2007 season.  The deal is worth an estimated $3 million, and Nixon can earn an additional $2 million in incentives.

 

In 2006 Trot hit .268 (102-381) with 24 doubles, 8 homer and 52RBI in 114 games.  He compiled an on-base percentage of .373 after drawing 60 walks over the 114 games, hit .311 (82-264) in the first half with 6HR & 43RBI in 78 games and hit .288 (83-288) off RHP.   

Cleveland Indians Executive Vice President and General Manager Mark Shapiro on today’s announcement – “The addition of Trot Nixon not only gives our club another quality outfielder who excels against RHP, but it gives our team another veteran presence with championship experience and adds to the overall depth of our organization and Major League club for 2007.”   

 

To make room for Nixon (who will wear #33) on the 40-man roster the Indians have designated RHP Jeremy Guthrie for assignment. 

 

Braves and Pirates Finalize Swap

The Atlanta Braves and Pittsburgh Pirates completed a four-player trade today, as the Braves acquired left-handed relief pitcher Mike Gonzalez and minor league shortstop Brent Lillibridge from the Pirates in exchange for first baseman Adam LaRoche and minor league outfielder Jamie Romak.

Gonzalez, 28, was perfect in save opportunities in 2006, converting all 24 chances.  In 54 games, he posted a 3-4 record and 2.17 ERA, the fifth-best ERA among all National League relief pitchers. Gonzalez's .213 opponents' batting average ranked eighth in the league.

“Mike has established himself as one of the top relief pitchers in baseball,” Braves Executive Vice President and General Manager John Schuerholz said. “We believe that his addition to our club has strengthened our bullpen – especially in the late innings.”

 

Our own Rob McQuown took part in the Schuerholz conference call later in the day and you can read about it here.

 

Royals Media Forecast Luncheon

Craig Brown attended the Kansas City Royals media forecast luncheon today. This year, Luke Hudson, John Buck and general manager Dayton Moore were the headliners at the luncheon.  Craig got a chance to mingle with the guys before the event kicked off…Read all about it and check out some pictures here!