Thanks For The Memories

Greg Maddux is gone. Gone for Cesar Izturis. Yes, the Cubs got a guy with a career OBP of .295. No wonder Jim Hendry wanted him.

It's very clear what Hendry is thinking. He's thinking that in 2007, he'll have only 1 hole in the infield: second base. He's thinking that they'll keep Juan Pierre for 2 years, bat Izturis 2nd (big mistake), sign or trade for a second sacker, and find a Carlos Lee for left field. He'll then try to get a starter and the Cubs will contend in the putrid NL.

Ironcially, he's right.

The real problem is that making a patchwork team the basis for contention is not the way to construct a team. The way to do it is to acquire a bunch of pieces that have the potential to be good and make the good ones great. Izturis will never be great. But, he will be better than Neifi Perez and Ronny Cedeno. And, in 2007, that might be all you need to get a playoff spot in the NL. And THAT might allow Jim Hendry to keep his job a little longer.

It will also keep the fans spinning the turnstyles. Hell, we all went crazy over an 88 win team. Why build a 100 game winner when people flock for sub-90?

We also see that the Dodgers get $2mm from the Cubs in the trade. Couln't the Cubs have sent some MORE money over and gotten a GOOD player back?

At least Greg doesn't have to see this anymore. He didn't deserve this crap. Todd Walker, he did deserve to be a part of this. If there's a real winner today, it's Todd.

And, at least Jim Hendry got SOMETHING for the nearly worthless Greg Maddux. A 26-year old Neifi has at least some value. More value than Greg would have had in 60 days.

Good work....?