Quick Hits

• And Now the Astros Dip In
  14 hours ago

  According to GM Jeff Luhnow, the Astros have continued to keep tabs on Jorge Soler. This brings the total of teams rumored to be in on Soler to eight. The Astros join the Phillies, Yankees, Blue Jays, Orioles, Red Sox, White Sox, and of course Cubs in the chase for the coveted Cuban outfielder. The possible last “free” free agent signing left, ahead of the upcoming International salary cap. I hate that the Cubs were out front on this in the news. Now I have nothing to be, but disappointed, if the Cubs don’t sign Soler. [MLB Trade Rumors]

• Compensation in the Hands of Selig
  8 days ago

  The Boston Red Sox and the Chicago Cubs have now officially submitted their written arguments to Bud Selig. Selig, the former owner of a division rival, has stated there is no timetable for an answer. Apparently, this is f’ing rocket science. If the Cubs and Red Sox submitted a list and any of the players match, give that guy. If they don’t, pick a guy in the middle and move forward. Or just rule the compensation over and declare that their will be no winner in this. Ya know, like an All-Star game. [NESN]