Andrews Expects to Sign as Free Agent with the Cubs
07/11/2004 | 12:00:00 | Baseball
July 11, 2004
By Jeff Honza
www.SIUSalukis.com
CARBONDALE, Ill. - Sometimes great things happen when you least expect them to. Former Southern Illinois University second baseman Greg Andrews would have to agree with that, as the Peoria, Ill., native expects to sign a free agent contract with the Chicago Cubs today.
"It's wierd how things work out," said Andrews. "I received a phone call out of the blue and was surprised because I didn't even know the Cubs were interested in me."
Andrews fielded a phone call from the Cubs on Friday at 10 a.m., CST. By 4:30 p.m., that day, he learned he'd be on a flight out to Mesa, Ariz., at 10 a.m., this morning. Once Andrews arrives in Mesa -- the home of the Cubs' rookie affiliate -- the details of his free agent contract are then to be discussed.
"I'm excited to get the opportunity to continue playing baseball," added Andrews. "I have been a fan of the Cubs my whole life."
Shortly after an outstanding career at SIU, Andrews played 10 games for the Gateway Grizzlies, a member of the Frontier League.
While at SIU, Andrews served as a three-year starting second baseman. A two-time Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Week and second-team all-MVC pick (2003), he ranks on the school's all-time career lists in both doubles and home runs. He was also named to the league's all-tournament team on two occasions and helped lead the Salukis to 67 or more double plays in back-to-back years.
Andrews is second Saluki in as many years to be picked up as a free agent. Toby Barnett signed as a free agent with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2003.