Rich Hill may be a long way from Chicago, but Jeff Samardzija is getting closer. (Of course, despite their histories, Samardzija does make quite a bit more money than Hill.) The Cubs are promoting Samardzija to triple-A Iowa, reports Inside the Ivy. Yesterday, Samardzija said on his blog: "Bags are packed. I'll see you guys in Iowa." Followed by him telling us what music he is currently listening to so that "maybe just maybe, I can get some of you to get away from whatever is 'popular' on the tube." (At least he doesn't talk down to his readers.)

The Cubs are apparently intent on promoting Samardzija perpetually notwithstanding the fact that his performance has not dictated promotions. Of the four starting pitchers who have made at least nine starts for double-A Tennessee (Donald Veal, Mitch Atkins, and James Russell being the others), Samardzija has the highest ERA at 4.86. Samardzija's 44/42 K/BB ratio is also poor.

Veal, on the other hand, has a 2.82 ERA. Atkins has pitched the most innings on the team and has a 72/24 K/BB ratio.

It does not take much speculation to guess how other pitchers in the Cubs' minor league system likely feel about Samardzija's consistent promotions, even if they consider him their friend.

The Cubs' top pitching prospect, Donald Veal, isn't taking to double-A too kindly. He struggled again tonight, in his second start of the year, allowing 3 runs in 4 innings on 2 hits and 7 walks. Yes, 7 walks. He now has 10 in 7.2 innings this year.

Baseball Analysts' Bryan Smith has posted his top 75 prospects list, and the two Cubs with food product last names (at least if you ignore pronounciation) make an appearance: Felix Pie at #34 and Donald Veal at #47. (Hat tip: The Detroit Tiger Weblog.) Just two players -- and no honorable mentions -- is a bit disappointing. It's a good thing the Cubs have money to burn.

Cubs' 2005 2nd round draft pick Donnie Veal, a 6'4" lefty, has gotten off to an excellent start at high-A Daytona following his promotion in mid-June. Following yesterday's 7-inning shutout performance, Veal has now thrown 18.2 innings for Daytona without allowing an earned run. He's allowed just 11 hits, though he's walked 8. He has also struck out 13.