Cubs closer Carlos Marmol was prepared to start a new chapter in his career.
The Cubs reportedly traded closer Carlos Marmol to the Angels for starting pitcher Dan Haren – except the deal fell apart. Marmol broke the news, telling Dominican Republic paper El Caribe that he was traded to Anaheim.
"I am very fond of the City of Chicago," he told El Caribe. "It will always be in my heart. Now I look up to the challenge with Anaheim."
However, a trade that once appeared to be a done deal was never finalized and the Cubs reportedly pulled the offer even though Marmol waived his no-trade clause, agreeing to go to Anaheim. Haren would have been a perfect addition for an organization that is starved for starting pitching.
Even Cubs pitcher Matt Garza believed Marmol was traded to the Angels, tweeting: Gonna be tough to replace a closer like Marmol, for sure! But adding another horse to the stable gives us innings we sorely need!
Marmol is entering the final year of his contract and is owed $9.8 million. Haren, 32, posted a 12-13 record and 4.33 ERA with the Angels in 2012. Haren has a $15.5 million club option for 2013 with a $3.5 million buyout.
Marmol, 30, saved 20 games for the Cubs this season with a 3.42 ERA. During his seven-year Cubs career he has recorded 115 saves.
-- Meghan Montemurro
