Hmm what interesting news can I dig up today? How about Magglio Ordonez in a Cubs uniform in 05'?

Ordonez, a 30-year-old Venezuelan, is a reserved guy who tends to keep his feelings to himself. But friends say he is quietly steaming over a series of slights that began last winter when the Sox attempted to deal him to Boston for Nomar Garciaparra. The trade eventually fell through, but the scar never healed.

Now the Sox basically have stopped negotiating with Ordonez, and Williams continues to insist no one in the clubhouse is an untouchable, an obvious reference to the possibility of trading his star right fielder.

The Sox seriously can't be this dumb can they?

So how could this happen?

For everything to fall into place, the Cubs would have to decline their $11.5 million option on Moises Alou, which they are likely to do anyway, and come up with a creative, back-loaded deal for Ordonez. Hendry has proved he can get things done, and it would be up to Tribune Co. to approve a probable payroll increase. Ordonez could be linked with Sosa for years or he could be insurance for the Cubs if contract negotiations with Sosa over an extension beyond 2005 go sour.

Ordonez prefers to stay in Chicago, so a move to the North Side would be his first choice. If not, look for him to try to find a job in a warm-weather city like San Diego or Los Angeles.

Likes Chicago, Whitesox have pissed him off, Alou unlikely to be resigned. Bring on Magglio in 05'! In the mean time we have a division to win. We will get back to you Mags in the off-season, take care buddy!

And ummmm -looks around nervously- keep this Cubs hat in your closet. On the down low.