The news was expected but few seemed to notice. There's a small note on cubs.com but since June, most have known that there would be new announcers in Wrigley Field next season and for the first time since the early eighties, the man behind the mic will not be named Caray.

Chip Caray has left the Cubs to join the Braves announce team which includes his father, the underrated Skip Caray. While Chip insisted the decision had not been finalized until this week and had nothing to do with the Steve Stone controversy, both dance around the story.

There were two major factors in the move: the move of many Cubs games to Comcast Sportsnet and the death of his uncle, Chris Caray. After his uncle's passing, Chip sensed that he wanted to be closer to his father. Nothing wrong with that. Comcast wants to create it's own "brand" and new announcers could help with this.

Add in the possible exit of Sammy Sosa - yes, the Cubs will shop him heading into his walk year - and the Cubs off-season could be every bit as dramatic as the Cubs second half. When the team takes the field next season, it's unclear who the voice may be. Early contenders include the radio team of Pat Hughes and Ron Santo, former announcer (and current Rangers announcer) Josh Lewin, and Marlins announcer Len Kasper.

**UPDATE**

Two separate sources have told me that Steve Stone has had "ongoing discussions" with the White Sox in regards to their commentary position. The idea of a Hawk and Stony show is ... well, I'd watch just to see, much in the same way I probably couldn't turn my head from an actual train wreck.

One of those sources also told me that the Tribune is "locked in" on Jon Miller (Giants, ESPN). I love Miller and think that would be a pretty good pick if they can get him.

The final part of this update is that the Cubs *are* considering ending the "guest conductor" parade. Frankly, it's tired and there's better ways to remember Harry.