The signing of outfielder Joey Gathright to a one-year contract was a signal by the Cubs.
No, Gathright isn't the primary left-handed bat GM Jim Hendry has promised to deliver this spring. Nor is he going to replace Milton Bradley as Hendry's top choice this winter. But the signing of Gathright is a clear message to Felix Pie that Pie's days as a Cub most likely are numbered.
In some ways, that's stunning news. Pie, 23, has been the Cubs' top position-player prospect the last few years, and he's even had the "phenom" tag bestowed on him. He was the Cubs' Opening Day center fielder in 2008.
However, his inconsistency at the plate drove manager Lou Piniella crazy, and Pie soon found himself in the minor leagues, getting special instruction. Pie is out of minor league options, and the Cubs don't see him as a role player, so their preferred avenue now is to trade him. He was mentioned in the talks for San Diego pitcher Jake Peavy.
Gathright will be a fourth or fifth outfielder. His on-base percentage was an unspectacular .311 this year, and he provides little or no power. The Cubs like his defense and his speed -- he stole bases in 25 attempts for the Royals in 2008. Kansas City decided not to offer him a contract, and the Cubs picked him up for $800,000.
