We finally have some mystery in the Cubs' spring training camp: Jason Marquis will make more than $16M over the next two years whether he's starting or in long-relief or he's cut. But his family will be affected if he's not starting? Really? And if you want a position, how does it help to inform your boss that you believe you are above competing for it? Here's Marquis' comments today, as reported by MLB.com and the Tribune's Paul Sullivan:


And here's Lou Piniella's reaction:

Well, if that's the case, he can go somewhere else. Win a spot in the rotation, you don't have to worry about it. ... I've got seven starters here for five spots, you know? It's a little bit too early to start talking about what he wants to do or not do.

....

You know, that galls me about Marquis, it really does. I'm not pleased with that comment. We've had a good camp over here, everybody's getting an opportunity. Go out and win a spot in the rotation.

Marquis would do well to go to Piniella immediately and unequivocally apologize and state that he's ready, willing, and able to compete for, and win, a spot in the rotation. Who's Marquis afraid of? Ryan Dempster? Jon Lieber?