The Cubs drafted Trevor Gretzky -- yep, he's Wayne's son -- this week. At first glance, this might sound like what the Dodgers did for Tommy Lasorda back in 1988, when they drafted his godson (some kid named Mike Piazza) with the 1,390th (!) pick of the draft.
That would be a slight mischaracterization. For starters, teams aren't in the habit of cashing in high-round draft picks as favors to former greats (Trevor was taken in the seventh round). Second, Gretzky the Elder doesn't have any ties with the Cubs; he played in Edmonton, Los Angeles, St. Louis and New York during a 22-year NHL career. Chicago's interest in Trevor has everything to do with talent.
A high school senior, Gretzky has committed to play baseball at San Diego State next year. The Cubs, obviously, will try to change his mind. As for why Gretzky chose baseball over hockey, here's what he told MLB.com in a February interview:
"I was introduced to it in New York, when my dad was playing for the Rangers," Trevor said. "I remember him taking me to a Yankee game, and ever since then I wanted to play and it's been my dream to be in the Major Leagues since then."
The Chicago Tribune also reports that the Cubs drafted another player with a recognizable name: Shawon Dunston Jr. was taken in the 11th round. His dad played shortstop in Chicago two decades ago and was best known for one of the best arms in the league. We're pretty sure Mark Grace would confirm as much.