Report: Cubs and Cardinals in the lead for Vicente Padilla
La Prensa in Nicaragua reports that the Cubs and Cardinals are in the lead to sign free-agent pitcher Vicente Padilla, according to Cesar Batista, a close friend who is linked with the agency that represented the right-hander.
Batista also says the White Sox, Orioles, Nationals, Braves, Mets, Red Sox and Dodgers have expressed interest.
Batista adds that formal negotiations will not begin until after the Winter Meetings.
