Hamilton to the Cubs?

I'm still not sure I would. Maybe. I'll think on it.

The Cubs continue to talk to teams about a possible trade of former ace Mark Prior, who's not expected to return from shoulder surgery until at least May in his final season before becoming eligible for free agency. If they can't move him, the Cubs are faced with a tough decision on Dec. 12, the deadline for offering arbitration. They want an option year with any 2008 contract for Prior.

Hendry said he has talked this week with Prior's agent, John Boggs, but appeared no closer to deciding what to do with Prior if he can't be traded. The Padres, Rangers and Reds are among the interested teams.

Highly regarded scouting guru Gary Hughes, who gave Hendry his start in professional baseball, was honored with a lifetime achievement award by Baseball America on Tuesday night.

''The things he's done for the game, behind the scenes, you can't put into words,'' said Hendry, who got visibly emotional as he discussed Hughes. ''The people he's broken in, the people he's helped ... he should have been a general manager a long time ago.''

In response to a Toronto-based rumor, Hendry said he has not talked to any teams about trading pitcher Ryan Dempster.

Hendry also said he won't trade Felix Pie or Sam Fuld - who was honored Tuesday as the Arizona Fall League MVP - and the two prospects could go to spring training as the Cubs' center-field pool.

Despite rumors that the Reds are shopping talented, young - and lefty-hitting - center fielder Josh Hamilton, the Cubs haven't discussed Hamilton with the Reds and don't appear to have much interest.

2008 NL Central Champs!