The Buzz

The Cubs will gladly entertain trade offers for 34-year-old centerfielder Lance Johnson. When Johnson missed 14 starts with a strained groin and hip flexor, he was replaced in 10 of those games by Brant Brown , 26, who hit .333 with two home runs and 10 RBIs. Johnson won't be easy to deal, however, because the two-year, $10 million contract extension he signed in November '96 runs through next season.