Chicago Cubs reliever Kerry Wood took a hometown discount to return to the club last season, and while it's unclear if he's willing to do that again this time around, he still wants to come back to the team again next season. In comments he made on Chicago Sports Net on Thursday, Wood praised the Cubs' hiring of new President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein, and added his interest in continuing to be a Cub.
I'm sure we'll talk about my status at some point is as well. I expect to be back and be a part of the organization and help us go in the right direction.
Wood has been a key figure within the organization for most of the past 15 years, filling key roles both as a starter and a reliever for winning Cubs teams over the years. He posted a 3.35 ERA in 55 appearances with the Cubs in 2011, showing that he can still be a high-quality reliever.
For more on the Cubs, check out Bleed Cubbie Blue, SB Nation's Chicago Cubs blog.