Cubs Lose Interest in Acquiring Infielder Kurt Stillwell

The Padres’ hopes of acquiring free agent infielder Kurt Stillwell were bolstered Wednesday when the Chicago Cubs decided they were no longer interested in Stillwell.

Larry Himes, Cub general manager, said their interest in Stillwell was squashed Wednesday when shortstop Shawon Dunston was provided a clean bill of health by Cubs doctors for the bulging disc in his back. Dunston will begin workouts on time with the Cubs, and is expected to be full-strength by the second week of spring training.

“All reports are that he’s fine,” Himes said. “He shouldn’t have any problems playing all year long.”

The Cubs could renew their interest in Stillwell if they trade second baseman Ryne Sandberg--who has given the Cubs a March 1 deadline to either trade or sign him--but the Cubs are expected to keep him.

Stillwell still has two other teams interested in his services, according to agent Scott Boras, but the Padres’ two-year, $3.5 million offer still is the highest proposal provided by any team.

In other news, because of a scheduling conflict with the San Diego Chargers, the Padres will move their scheduled Aug. 27 game against the Pittsburgh Pirates to Friday, Aug. 28.

Also, former Padre pitchers Calvin Schiraldi and Atlee Hammaker have signed minor-league contracts with the Kansas City Royals, and Chicago White Sox, respectively.