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Starting pitcher Ryan Dempster and closer Kerry Wood are among the Cubs filing for free agency.  Dempster and Wood were keys players in the Cubs’ quest for the best record in the National League.  Should one or both leave, finding replacements would be a key goal at the winter meetings.  Dempster, whose transition from reliever to starter in 08 was a rousing success, will attract plenty of attention on the open market.

A key problem for the Cubs is their ownership status.  Dallas Maverick owner Mark Cuban late this summer reported the crisis in the global credit markets makes a purchase of the Cubs difficult until banks begin lending again.  It’s possible the struggling Tribune Company will be unable to consummate a sale before the beginning of the 2009 season.

As expected, the Dodgers and Derrick Lowe ended their relationship.  Lowe is expected to return to the east coast.  The Dodgers have not been shy about their interest in San Diego starter Jake Peavy.

The big winner this winter should be Brewer free agent C.C. Sabathia, the key to Milwaukee’s successful late season run into the playoffs, despite manager Ned Yost’s firing in September.

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