Karros Money

That's what the cost is for the guy who wins the Cubs a title. Carlos Beltran agreed Tuesday to a $9 million, one-year contract with the Kansas City Royals. Beltran is a free agent after this year and the Royals have said its unlikely they will be able to sign him to a long-term deal.

Sign Maddux for $6 million, trade Patterson, Clement and a top minor league pitcher for this guy. $93 million would be the payroll.

Given the cash that rolled/is rolling in, it's a no brainer.

Would KC do that deal? I dunno. They get a $3 million savings, two hot youngsters (well, one if you count out Korey), and a solid starter that will help them win a division.