Cubs Looking at Greinke?

Jim Hendry just brought in Jason Kendall from the Athletics, but he isn't finished making changes to the Cubs current roster. It's well known that he wants to trade Jacque Jones-well, if Bud Selig will let him-and possibly Cesar Izturis as well. Though, if Izturis is gone, who will give Aramis the reacharounds?

One of the players Hendry is keeping an eye on possibly trading for is Kansas City Royals pitcher Zack Greinke.

The non-waiver trade deadline is July 31, and the Cubs could make another move or two before then. Manager Lou Piniella said he thinks general manager Jim Hendry will "possibly do a little tinkering."

There are broadcast reports the Cubs are interested in Kansas City right-hander Zack Greinke, who is 4-5 with a 4.65 ERA in 31 appearances, including seven starts, this season.

Greinke could be a valuable addition to the Cubs pitching staff. He's been a starter throughout his career, but has worked primarily out of the bullpen for the Royals this season. That would give the Cubs flexibility should Jason Marquis or Rich Hill continue to struggle.

I wouldn't be expecting a major move from Hendry or the Cubs at the deadline for a few reasons. First and foremost being that with the pending change in ownership, it's pretty clear the Cubs aren't going to add more payroll. Second, there just aren't that many big names out there, and finally, the Cubs don't really need to make a big move. Plugging a few holes here and there, and getting rid of Jones and Izturis is all they really need to do to have a shot at the NL Central.

So those rumors you may have heard about Jon Garland returning to the Cubs? I wouldn't get my hopes up.