Harden Staying

The Cubs picked up Rich Harden's 2009 option year and will pay Harden $7 million in the final year of a four year deal he inked with Oakland.

The 26-year-old pitcher went 5-1 with a 1.77 ERA in 12 starts with Chicago after the July 8 trade. Harden struck out 181 in 148 innings and had a .183 batting average against. His one post-season start was unspectacular, giving up 3 runs in 4 1/3 innings.

Overall, the Cubs think that if they get 25 starts (his combined total with the A's and Cubs in 2008) out of Harden next year and he is productive, then it's a good deal. I agree. $14 million might get you a top pitcher (might) and paying $7 million for one that pitches 85% of his starts and is a consistent 6 innings per start would be worth it. However, you really want to see something more in the playoffs.

Harden was diagnosed with rotator tendinitis and some "subtle instability" in his right shoulder (no tear was detected) and it appears he will not be needing surgery. He should be ready for the start of next year.

Decisions on Wood and Dempster are up next.