Slammin Sammy

I'm glad to see that the Orioles have addressed their need for starting pitching and now feel free to explore other options on the free-agent market.

CHICAGO—The Cubs will trade Sammy Sosa to the Baltimore Orioles, reportedly in exchange for INF Jerry Hairston Jr. and prospects, pending approval.

Executives told the Associated Press Friday the Cubs would pay a good portion of Sosa's $17 million salary for the upcoming season. Sosa would then void his salary for 2006, which currently includes an option for $18 million or a buyout for $4.5 million.

Minor leaguers Michael Fontenot and David Crouther are widely speculated to be involved in the trade. Crouther, a right handed pitcher, was the third round pick of the Orioles in 2001. He went 9-9 with a 5.03 ERA in 27 starts for Class Double A Bowie last season. Fontenot, Baltimore's first round pick in '01, hit .279 for Triple A Ottawa in 2004.

An official announcement is expected some time this week. The trade is still awaiting Commissioner Bud Selig's approval, and possibly that of the Players' Association. In turn, Sosa would have to waive his no-trade clause, plus pass a physical.