Cubs deal Gerut, trade Dubois

[aTrUeCUBsFaN]

07/18/2005 11:24 PM ET
Cubs deal for Gerut, trade Dubois
Acquisition brings defensive skill to depleted outfield
By Kyle Jepson / Special to MLB.com

CINCINNATI -- After Monday night's game against the Reds, the Cubs acquired outfielder Jody Gerut from the Cleveland Indians in exchange for outfielder Jason Dubois.

Although Gerut doesn't fill all the Cubs' needs -- the team is still in need of a leadoff hitter -- the 25-year-old will help a depleted outfield defensively, Gerut's greatest strength.

Gerut has committed just eight errors in his career, which includes more than 200 games played defensively.

In 2003, the left-handed batter broke into the Majors with his best season thus far. Gerut led the Indians in home runs (22) and RBIs (75). He was also named Rookie of the Year by The Sporting News.

In his next two seasons, though, Gerut was plagued by knee problems.

Gerut played in 134 games in 2004, but batted just .252. This season, he missed much of the first half of the year, but returned to bat .275 in 44 games.

Dubois was in his second season with the Cubs.

After playing only 20 games last year, Dubois was batting .239 in 52 games this season. He was optioned to Triple-A Iowa on July 7.

Kyle Jepson is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

[awefullspellare]

Good trade. Dubois wasn't much great and Gerut could be very good if he gets healthy.

[Providence A's]

I don't think the Cu-hubs are done trading...

[awefullspellare]

I don't think the Cu-hubs are done trading...

Probably right. We probably ending up getting some RP or OF. Whether or not it's anyone who makes much of an impact is the only question in my mind.