[EmpireWF]

Earlier this week, Aramis Ramirez opted out of his contract with the Cubs and filed for free-agency. It appears to be just a move to gain more leverage in negotiations as the Cubs will have exclusive rights until November 11th according to MLB.com.

If the Cubs can't come to terms on a new deal with Ramirez, expect the Angels and Dodgers to target the slugging third baseman. However, if you read into it, it appears the Cubs are talking as if Ramirez is not leaving by any means. We'll find out in a few weeks.

[MVB]

If I were Ramirez, I'd be looking for the escape hatch too. There's a lot of contending teams out there who'd love to have Ramriez. Why not take your talent to a place where it won't be wasted? ( Unless of course the Cubs are willing to pay through the nose to keep you on their team.)

[MJHMarc]

If the Cubs were smart they would've resigned Aramis Ramirez and traded him immediately when his value is high.

Just remember, they could've had A-Rod!

[cwstech]

Screw A-rod man. That big contract will hurt the Cubs in acquiring talent at other positions. Ramirez will receive good money this year because he is a consistent talent on offense and defense. And he will be back in a Cubs uniform. He knows that he can more money, so this is leverage to receive more money from the Cubs.