The Cubs are plodding through this offseason. They are not even coming up in any ridiculous trade rumors, which is odd. They are always mentioned as they are one of the few teams with the ability to pack on salaries. Is this a sign that they have learned to barter quietly somehow since the resignation of the team President? Or perhaps they really are not seriously active and content to cherry pick whatever is left of the outfield pile?
It seems Japanese outfielder, Fukudome, will narrow down his options this week. So far, he hasn't even expressed definitively that he is coming to the US. He has a legitimate offer on the table from the Tokyo Giants. It is concerning that the Cubs seem locked on this one target. On the other hand, so much energy is focused on Johan Santana and Miguel Cabrera that you can't be sure what the rest of the league has been up to behind closed doors.
The Cubbies are saying the right things, but I want to see something done. This team can contend with a few more pieces. It seems like there are pieces parts out there to be had for young talent. Obviously, the Cubs run the risk of trading the next greatest thing ever, but please give me a bird in the hand (yes, I mean Oriole stud pitcher Erik Bedard). Young talent does not always equate to major league stardom. I'm tired of watching the next great hope fail to materialize as the North Siders trot yet another 5-tool outfield prospect into center field.
Word is that the Orioles and A's are looking to deal. Perhaps the price is not right, I don't know. But Rich Hill, as promising as he is, should not be untouchable. For the likes of Bedard, Dan Haren, Joe Blanton, and Rich Harden you have to give up something. There are rumors swirling about Capuano (a cross border trade is not likely), Jason Bay and Luke Scott.
As a fan, I'm not terribly comfortable with the combination of pitching and balanced hitting the Cubs are ready to run with. I'm not sure how they could be. I am sure they were watching during the latest playoff flop. I have a feeling they are playing it very close to the vest, but it's still a little unnerving to picture the current roster vying with the likes of Boston and New York for MLB mastery.
The Cubs did send recently acquired infielder Omar Infante and reliever Will Ohman to the Braves for reliever Jose Ascanio - a 22-year-old right handed pitcher with 16 major league innings to his name. That certainly makes me feel better.
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