Not much time today, but here’s the 411 you need:

Carlos Beltran helped the Cubs tremendously simply by leaving the Astos. Without Beltran and Jeff Kent, with Craig Biggio and Jeff Bagwell aging faster than could be stopped by Dorian Gray's portrait, the Astros will likely be a much worse offensive club than last year. Given that they depleted their bullpen as part of acquiring Beltran in 2004, it’s reasonable to think that the Astros, as currently constructed, will fall apart in July or August. That would lead to a trade of Roger Clemens (who will be back in 2005) and bring the NL Central down to a battle between the Cubs and Cardinals.

The Cubs still need to upgrade their outfield and they need a leadoff hitter. Anyone have any ideas on a person who can fit both bills? Jim Hendry made the mistake last year of not getting a true leadoff hitter and Dusty Baker made the mistake of not playing his best option (Todd Walker) in the leadoff role. Hendry needs to make a move that doesn’t give Baker much choice about whom to play where.

Magglio Ordonez is supposedly ready to work out for interested parties. I’ll believe the guy can function when I see it on Mark Giangrecco’s 10:20 sports report. Until then, I believe he looks like this:


Sammy Sosa’s fate now hangs on Carlos Delgado. Should Delgado sign with Baltimore, Sammy’s back in 2005.

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