The Cubs completed their big deal with the Dodgers Wednesday, trading catcher Todd Hundley and outfielder Chad Hermansen for first baseman Eric Karros, second baseman Mark Grudzielanek and $2 million.
Since finishing 67-95, the Cubs have hired manager Dusty Baker, signed free agent reliever Mike Remlinger and traded for catchers Damian Miller and Paul Bako.
Karros, 35, is owed $8 million next year and his contract includes a 2004 club option for $9 million with a $1 million buyout. If he reaches 500 plate appearances next season, his 2004 salary would be guaranteed. The first baseman hit a career-low 13 home runs while batting .271 with 73 RBIs.
Hundley will get $6 million next year and $6.5 million in 2004. The catcher will get an extra $500,000 for 2004 if he makes 100 starts next season.
Grudzielanek was due to get $5.5 million next season, with a 2004 club option for $6 million with $500,000 buyout. As part of the trade, he agreed to restructure his contract into a new deal that calls for a $2 million signing bonus, a $1 million salary in 2003 and a payment of $3 million within two months of the end of the 2003 season.
