Kerry

Wood

Cubs GM Jim Hendry knows what a waste that would be and confirmed that he’s never discussed that option with anyone. If the season started tomorrow, Ryan Dempster likely would be the Cubs’ closer. Fortunately, there’s still a few months left for the team to figure out a better solution.

Wood missed his start yesterday, but he may try to throw on the side today.

Wood is eligible for free agency after next season. It’s been rumored that he’ll seek $48 million over four years.

“It was very friendly,” Hendry said of his talk with agents Greg Landry and Pat Rooney. “I think both sides would like to get a multiyear deal done if possible. Neither side has made a secret that we’d love to keep Woody and Woody would prefer to stay.” Wood is eligible for free agency after next season. It’s been speculated that he’ll ask for $48 million over four years.

Wood’s three- or four-year deal could be completed this week. Lee’s probably won’t get done until next week. Both would be eligible for free agency at the end of the season if they don’t agree to extensions.

“We’re getting close,” Wood said. “We haven’t gotten too deep into the conversation the last couple of days. I’ve been worried getting here, getting set up and getting things going. From my understanding, we’re pretty close.” Wood has already signed a one-year deal for this year, so there is little urgency to the talks.

Wood becomes a free agent after next season, and because he owns a home in Arizona, speculation is that he’d consider signing with the Diamondbacks.

''It was really something I was born with,’' Wood he said. ''We’ve been giving it treatment the last few years, dealing with it and keeping an eye on it. But it’s basically something that’s going to be there for me. I feel it all the time, really.’' Wood is expected to start Thursday. Hopefully this isn’t a condition that will hinder Wood more as he ages.

Pitching coach Larry Rothschild said Wood will throw a light side session today and take Saturday off. The Cubs will re-evaluate things Sunday. It’s possible Wood’s next step will be a simulated game, followed by a minor-league rehab stint.

Wood is on the DL with a right triceps strain but might return as soon as this weekend when the Cubs host the A’s. This information comes from the Houston paper rather than from the Cubs, so don’t take it as gospel.