Kerry Wood re-ups with the Cubbies

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Cubs, Wood agree to $4.2M for 1 year

By DAVE CARPENTER
Associated Press Writer
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CHICAGO (AP) -- Given his history of arm problems, even Kerry Wood was surprised at all the interest he drew from other teams in free agency. While Wood was tempted to leave, he couldn't be lured from the team he has pitched for his entire career.

After making the switch to the bullpen last season after a swift recovery from shoulder problems, Wood agreed Monday to a $4.2 million, one-year deal to return to the Cubs, spurning what general manager Jim Hendry said were numerous multiyear offers elsewhere.

He called his decision to stay with the Cubs an easy one.

"Chicago's my home," Wood said during a conference call. "Chicago's been great to me. There's no better place to play, especially if you're winning."

Citing winning might sound odd considering the franchise hasn't won a World Series since 1908. But with the club "on an upswing" and coming off an NL Central title in 2007, he also wants to be part of a Cubs team that finally wins it all.

Now if he could stay healthy and contribute all season...