The World Series is over, which can mean only one thing: free-agent frenzy! Between the Cubs and White Sox, 10 players filed for free agency this weekend. Assuming we've seen the last of these guys in Chicago uniforms, we rank them in order of who will be missed most.
1. Mark Buehrle, Sox
2011: 13-9, 3.59 ERA, 205 1/3 innings
He might not fit into the team's payroll anymore, but Sox fans would be thrilled to have him back.
2. Reed Johnson, Cubs
2011: .309, 5 HRs, 28 RBIs
Puts up solid numbers for a backup outfielder and doesn't cost much. Why not bring him back?
3. John Grabow, Cubs
2011: 3-1, 4.76 ERA, 62 1/3 innings
Being a left-handed relief pitcher has its perks when it comes to negotiations.
4. Carlos Pena, Cubs
2011: .225, 28 HRs, 80 RBIs
His batting average is not with $10 million a year. The Cubs would be much better with, oh, let's say Albert Pujols or Prince Fielder.
5. Juan Pierre, Sox
2011: .259, 80 runs, 27 stolen bases
He's been the Sox's "true leadoff hitter." Though last we checked, it's entirely possible to win a World Series without one.
6. Kerry Wood, Cubs
2011: 3-5, 3.35 ERA, 51 innings
He STILL can't stay healthy. Thanks for the memories, Kerry, but enough is enough.
7. Rodrigo Lopez, Cubs
2011: 6-6, 4.42 ERA, 97 2/3 innings
It was nice to have him around to start once in a while, but his numbers should be easily replaced.
8. Ramon Castro, Sox
2011: .235, 4 HRs, 10 RBIs
A reliable backup catcher is important for the Sox with starter A.J. Pierzynski getting up there in years, but that's what Tyler Flowers is for.
9. Omar Vizquel, Sox
2011: .251, 18 runs, 7 RBIs
His versatility and reliable defense were nice for the Sox, but at age 44, he can't have much left in the tank.
10. Ramon Ortiz, Cubs
2011: 1-2, 4.86 ERA, 33 1/3 innings
Incredibly average. There are ton of guys like this—and most of them aren't 38 years old.
