Cubs Looking For Left-Handed Hitter

Looking to acquire a left-handed hitter who can play right field, the Chicago Cubs have shifted their attention to two players, Mark Teahen of Kansas City Royals and Jeremy Hermida of the Florida Marlins, this according to Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago Sun-Times.

The Cubs have been disappointed in the play of right fielder Milton Bradley this year, and now it appears they are actively trying to reduce his role. Wittenmyer notes that the Cubs don't want Bradley to give up batting left-handed, but they have discussed the possibility of giving him a platoon role.

Furthermore, Wittenmyer notes that the Cubs have about $2-$3 million worth of payroll flexibility, which is the prorated equivalent of roughly $5-$8 million in full-contract value.

Teahen, 27, has had a very productive season this year batting .290 with nine homers and 36 RBI's. While Teahen is primarily a third baseman, he has played 11 games in right field this year. Teahen's contract has him scheduled to make $3.5 million this year, and then he will be arbitration eligible for the next two seasons, which should fit right within the Cubs payroll guidelines.

Hermida, 25, has split time at both right and left field this year, and might be a more realistic option for the Cubs. The Marlins have openly shopped Hermida over the last few weeks, as they continue to search for bullpen help. Hermida is batting .249 with 11 homers and 39 RBI's this season. Hermida signed a one-year $2.5 million contract this offseason, and also will be arbitration eligible the next two seasons.