Cubs sign Walker to one-year deal
CHICAGO -- Todd Walker turned down more money and a guaranteed starting job to sign with the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday because he feels they are close to getting to the World Series.

"It's a great signing for us," Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said. "Who wouldn't want a bat like Todd Walker's?

"We felt we were in need of another left-handed hitter, and to get somebody of Todd's quality is outstanding," Hendry said. "He's a career .290 hitter. He was the toughest guy in the American League to strike out last year. This is not a reflection on what we had."

Walker, 30, batted .283 in 144 games with the Boston Red Sox last year, hitting 13 homers and 38 doubles while driving in 85 runs. He struck out 54 times, an average of once every 12 plate appearances.

Nice pick-up Jim. Now where's Pudge?