Cubs Sign Double-Play Combo

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Dec 8, 2004 4:39PM

The Cubs locked up their middle infield for at least the 2005 season yesterday, agreeing to terms with both shortstop Nomar Garciaparra and second baseman Todd Walker. Both players chose to stay with the Cubs despite more lucrative offers elsewhere.

Nomar, the popular former Red Sox star, turned down a multi-year deal offered by Aneheim to sign a 1-year deal with the Cubs and hopes to begin negotiating a longer-term deal. Looks like Mia Hamm does like Chicago. His contract is worth at least $8 million, with another $3 million in possible incentives.

Walker also signed a 1-year deal, with a mutual option for 2006. His base pay will be $2.5 million -- not Nomar money, but Chicagoist would take it. Walker was offered more money and a guaranteed second year by Texas, but turned it down.

The Cubs are finally starting to solidify their lineup for next season, although they still have a number of remaining unanswered questions -- how do they replace Moises Alou and will they be stuck with Sammy Sosa and his magically disappearing muscles? The recent steroids scandal could sure make teams that were interested back away... fast!