NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. -- Chicago Cubs free agent pitcher Travis Wood is receiving interest from 10 teams, including seven in the National League who like his versatility, according to his agent, Darek Braunecker.
Wood, 29, would like an opportunity to start again after making the All-Star team in 2013. He lost his starting role the following season but has proven to be a durable and reliable commodity as a reliever. He went 4-0 with a 2.95 ERA last season helping the Cubs win their division. He also stranded 37 of 42 inherited runners before tiring some down the stretch.
Wood has more value in the National League, as he can be used as a pinch-runner, pinch-hitter or even an extra hand in the field. He has nine career home runs and one more in the playoffs, becoming the first reliever since 1924 to hit a postseason home run. Wood will continue to talk with teams about starting or relieving, including the Cubs, who have admitted they have an opening in the bullpen for a pitcher of his qualities. A deal with a team wasn't imminent, according to Braunecker.