Naming Names

Sports Illustrated's web site has the bulk of its info available for free (unlike another popular sports site that's moved all its columnists behind a pay wall). Well, John Donovan starts the hot stove talk today by throwing out 20 names. Some are hot names, some are cold. Some are cheapies and some he thinks are busts.

Here are a few names that could help the Cubs next year.

Kevin Millwood - I like this guy. He's 31, not too old. He's been fairly healthy this year, but his history has a few injuries in it. Low walk totals. The .302 OBP against is a little high and his G/F ratio is sneaking up. Perhaps the new Wrigley bleachers will slow down the wind tunnel and make the park a little less homer friendly.

Rafael Furcal - Too drinky for me, but he's the best available. He fills two huge holes (leadoff and SS) and he's still plenty young. If were certain he wouldn't be another Kyle Farnsworth, I might be convinced to take a shot at him.

B.J. Ryan - Could be the perfect fit to tandem with Ryan Dempster. He's a lefty. He's younger than Billy Wagner. Sub-.300 OBP against. BB/K ratio increasing each of the last four years.

Johnny Damon - He's too old for me. At this point in a career, nagging injuries start to creep up and the legs start to slow down. I can't see a 4 year, $48 million dollar deal for this guy being a smart deal.

To summarize: Yes to Millwood and Ryan. No to Damon. Eeee-Yeee to Furcal.

Discuss.