Fansided

Jeff Samardzija spreads Christmas cheer at children’s hospital

By Patrick Schmidt

Sep 23, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jeff Samardzija (29) pitches against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jeff Samardzija (29) pitches against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jeff Samardzija
Sep 23, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jeff Samardzija (29) pitches against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher has been involved in trade rumors all season long, but today those rumors took a back seat to the spreading of Christmas cheer along with gifts at the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

Samardzija posed for pictures with the children and signed a number of autographs, according to Carrie Muskat. I can never get tired of hearing these types of stories from professional athletes who take the time to visit with children, especially those who could use some extra special care and love from the people they idolize.

Samardzija finished his second season as a full-time starter with the Cubs with an 8-13 record and 4.34 ERA with 214 strikeouts. The club and Samardzija has been unable to come to terms on an extension which has led to his name being bandied about in trade rumors.

Despite the two parties being unable to come to terms on a new deal, the club is unlikely to move him unless they are floored by an offer.

Members of the Chicago Blackhawks did at Lurie’s Children Hospital earlier this month and handed out presents and played games with the patients.

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