7/19 Soriano: “I don’t worry”

Cubs outfielder Alfonso Soriano has heard the rumors. It’s July, close to the trading deadline, and his name has been mentioned before.

“I don’t worry,” he said. “I don’t have control of that situation.”

Soriano, 35, would be an expensive addition for a team. His contract with the Cubs runs through 2014, and he is owed $18 million each year. He does have a full no-trade clause and is closing in on 10-and-5 status, but said he would not get in the way if the Cubs approached him about a possible deal.

The Chicago Tribune reported Sunday there were “unconfirmed rumors” that the Yankees were interested but sources told MLB.com there have not been any conversations. Soriano entered Tuesday’s game against the Phillies just 1-for-14 since the All-Star break, and batting .255 overall with 14 homers and 41 RBIs. However, he hasn’t homered since June 19.

– Carrie Muskat