Cubs Win Fukudome Sweepstakes
ESPN 1000 is reporting the Cubs have signed outfielder Kosuke Fukudome from Japan, and in the process Jim Hendry's offseason has been saved. If they weren't able to sign Fukudome, I don't know what they would have done in Right Field next year because most the viable MLB free agents have already signed. Hendry said he had a trade in the works, but who knows how that would have gone down. Whatever, it's a happy day for Cubs fans.
So what does Fukudome bring to the table? A lot. The 2006 MVP hits for average, has speed, shows pop, and plays excellent defense. He hit .351 with 31 bombs two years ago, and while you can't count on that sort of production with the promotion to the bigs, you can certainly pencil in .300 or so with maybe 20 homers. The great speed and defense won't be affected in the slightest. And tell me this guy won't have good fundamentals. All they do in Japan is practice fundamentals for nine hours a day. The only concern I have is four years for a completely unproven commodity. But what the Hell, that's what it took to get him and it's only money. Good move by the Cubs.
The 2008 team is starting to take form. I'd still like to see another starting pitcher, and maybe another veteran reliever. But beyond that the only possible upgrade I see is with the potential Brian Roberts trade with the Orioles. On the surface, he doesn't look like much of an upgrade over DeRosa. Unless, of course, you factor in that a) he plays in a tougher league, b) has made a couple of All-Star teams, c) is two years younger than DeRosa, and d) adds a much-needed left-handed bat to the lineup. I heard an interview with DeRosa on the radio the other day, and I really feel for the guy. He pretty much did everything the Cubs asked this year, and yet it's his position where the Cubs are concentrating most on finding an upgrade. That's the business of baseball, I guess.
Here's what I'd like to see, assuming the Cubs can put the cherry on top of their offseason by acquiring Brian Roberts. Go into next season with Pie in Center, Fukudome in Right, and Theriot/Roberts in the infield. DeRosa would be relegated to super-sub status, able to start across the diamond at five positions when guys need a day off. (1st, 2nd, 3rd, SS? and RF) If Pie ends up being a bust, a not unlikely outcome, shift Fukudome to Center and start DeRosa in Right. DeRosa wouldn't exactly be a world beater for a corner outfielder, but he'd be a more than capable bat until Hendry can swing a midseason trade.
I think this roster, as constructed today, is good for 88-90 wins. One more move can put them over the top in the NL.
Go Hendry!