The Cubs have been shopping outfielder Milton Bradley and the $22 million left on his contract since the end of the 2009 season.  Sun-Times columnist Gordon Wittenmyer reports that the Cubs are close to dealing Bradley to an unidentified team.  The Tampa Bay Rays have been linked to Bradley rumors with Pat Burrell in those conversations.

Wittenmyer goes on to say that “One source said the two-team deal was ”three-quarters” done by late in the day Tuesday and involved the Cubs receiving another heavy-contract player, who would then be flipped to a third team”.  Jason Stark of ESPN.com indicates that the Rays are pursuing Bradley hard, but the Mets, once believed to be the third team involved, are no longer part of the trade talks.

The other teams rumored to be involved include the Kansas City Royals and Jose Guillen’s one year $12 million contract, the Detroit Tigers and Dontrelle Willis’ $12 million left on his contract and the Toronto Blue Jay’s and Vernon Wells‘ contract.  The Texas Rangers have been rumored to be involved in the Bradley talks.