You're acting as if that was a standing agreement the Cubs always had to be in-line with. They didn't have to come to that agreement. And they could have done a better job scouting him, to find out themselves that Hamilton was ready to turn things around. Knowing how early their pick was, they could have done so on their own. Do you really think the Reds did extensive scouting in those 15+ games he played in the past 4 years to determine how he could do? They took him as a flyer also, Narron's brother had worked with him in the past. The Reds have notoriously underfunded their scouting department, it wasn't due to scouting. It may not have been a standing agreement, but it would be a cheap shot to back out and keep the guy. The last thing this team needs is another outfielder anyway. Good luck to him in Cincy.