"Theo Epstein thought enough of Carlos Pena five years ago to sign him with the Red Sox organization. Does he think enough of Pena now to keep the pending free agent in a Cubs uniform next year?

Pena, for one, thinks the hiring of Epstein as the Cubs' next GM bodes well for his chances.

"No doubt,'' said Pena, who hit just .225 in his only season as the Cubs' first baseman — but whose 101 walks, .357 on-base percentage and left-handed power provided unique value to a mostly free-swinging lineup.

"He is the type of person I definitely appreciate and a professional that I appreciate,'' added Pena, who played 11 games for Boston's Class AAA team in August before finishing that 2006 season with the Red Sox. "Even playing against him so many years [for Tampa Bay in 2007-10], and playing for him briefly in 2006, I've got nothing but good things to say about Theo.

"I'm excited. I'm excited about the ballclub.'' "