The Philadelphia Philles have free agent reliever Kerry Wood on their radar, and they could be an alternative to the Chicago Cubs should the reliever choose to sign elsewhere, according to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN. The general assumption around the sport has been that Chicago is Wood's top choice, but the Cubs' apparent rebuilding effort could convince the longtime Cub to look elsewhere for employment.
If Wood is interested in leaving Chicago to sign with a contender, the Phillies would certainly make some sense as a suitor. They're still looking for bullpen help even after signing closer Jonathan Papelbon, and could use Wood as a set-up man. Even at age 34, Wood was effective in a relief role for the Cubs last season, posting a 3.35 ERA over 51 innings. His command is occasionally shaky, but he can still sit in the mid-90's with his heater.
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