MESA, Ariz. (MCT) — His days with the Cubs haven't been the best of Alfonso Soriano's career, except maybe when he deposits paychecks.

Since signing that $136 million contract before the 2006 season, Soriano has seen respect for him spiral downward as his performance hasn't fulfilled expectations.

But now managers Lou Piniella and Mike Quade are gone, and there's a new regime with a new way of looking at things. Yes, the new bosses tried to trade Soriano — most likely still are trying — but he believes he's starting fresh under manager Dale Sveum.