Trading Greg Maddux will be more difficult than just letting go of emotional ties and finding the right deal. It turns out that he does have a no trade clause in his contract, which he conceded on Friday, reports the Chicago Tribune. Maddux appears not to have known. A couple of weeks ago the Chicago media, and The Sports Xchange in a report published here by CubsNet.com, reported that Maddux said he had "a handshake agreement that the Cubs will consult with him on any serious trade possibilities." Maddux's agent, Scott Boras, then said he did have a no trade clause. So Maddux can stay if he wants, and he does appear happy, despite the Cubs' situation. At the same time, he appears open to going elsewhere. So it remains up in the air as to what will happen with him.

Mastrick at The View From the Bleachers suggests keeping Maddux and eventually making him a player coach (and, presumably, after that just a pitching coach). But how many megastars have decided to become assistant coaches? Any?