Cubs, Rays scouting Pedro in Dominican Republic

The Cubs are another team that's been scouting Pedro Martinez in the Dominican Republic, where he continues to throw regularly, according to National League sources.

The Rays said they had scouts look at Martinez recently, as well. A Rays person said the chances for them to sign Martinez still appear "slight.''

While Martinez doesn't appear close to making a decision, his continued workouts show he has a strong interest in returning. The Cubs' main problem this year has been their offense, so it's somewhat curious they are in the mix.

One possible Cubs complication is their ownership situation, which is in limbo. The Cubs worked around the uncertainty in the winter, so it may not be a problem, but the Ricketts family's purchase of the team from Sam Zell has moved slowly.

Martinez has been looking to make $5 million. He also would prefer a team in the race. It isn't known whether the National League is favored, but that seems to be a recent preference of pitchers.