What's the Deal with Theo's Deal?

By Chuck Sudo in News on Oct 14, 2011 7:20PM

Three days ago the Cubs owned the local news cycle with the news they were close to a deal to bring Boston Red Sox GM Theo Epstein to Clark and Addison. It's now Friday and Cubs fans still waiting for a formal announcement and wondering if there's really a curse.

What the hell?

The two teams are still haggling over compensation for Boston to release Epstein from the last year of his contract. According to various reports, including the Tribune's Phil Rogers, Evil Empire 1A wants cash and prospects from the Cubs farm system. The Cubs only want to give the loaded Red Sox legal tender and keep what they have in the farm system.

Until the Cubs and Red Sox can reach an accord, Epstein and the Cubs have to keep mum. Given the star-crossed history of the Chicago National League Ballclub and the current dysfunction of the Red Sox, is anyone surprised a deal to bring Epstein to the team has become filled with drama?