The Cubs say they are "intrigued" by right-hander David Patton, a Rule 5 draft pick. The Cincinnati Reds took Patton in the Rule 5 draft at the winter meetings and traded him to Chicago.
Through March 20, Patton had worked in seven Cactus League games, giving up seven hits in 7 2/3 innings. More important, at least in the eyes of manager Lou Piniella, he hadn't walked a batter and had struck out nine. "I'm going to tell you this: He's in the picture here," Piniella said.
Patton, 24, is a fastball-curveball pitcher who has impressed the field staff with his aggressiveness on the mound and his willingness to go right after hitters.
Two things possibly working against Patton are that he has not pitched above the Class A level and that the Cubs have several veteran, and more expensive, pitchers in camp. However, the Cubs think Patton's stuff is more than good enough.
This is a decision that could go down to the final day of spring training.
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