Much To Do About A Nothing

You knew the game was over when Jacque Jones and Michael Barrett had to tag team to save the day. Jones dribbled the ball to the plate from medium right field. Barrett, as shocked as anyone that the ball got there, did what he normally does when Jacque makes a throw: Tagged the runner without the ball.

Jim Hendry has really bought himself a pickle. His hand picked catcher, the apple of his eyes for years, has now regressed so far as a player that the Trib is hinting that Barrett may be traded sooner rather than later. That could happen beacuse, whoever takes Barrett, can be rid of him in 4 months when his cotrnact ends.

Jacque is another problem, altogether. Hendry panicked last year and signed Jacque to a three year deal after losing out on Rafael Furcal. That means, the Cubs owe Jacque for 2008, even if they outright release him.

Clearly, this team is pretty bad with those two in the lineup at their positions. There is a solution.

1) Bench Jacque Jones.
2) Send Matt Murton to the minors (This guy is Oceanic 815-quality Lost).
3) Trade for another catcher of Henry Blanco level capabilities.
4) Play Michael Barrett in right field, platooned with Cliff Floyd.

Yes. Right field.

Barrett does have a better bat than Jones. He's got a decent arm. Sure, he sucks as a throwing catcher, but his arm is decent enough for right. He'd be no worse than Jacque or Floyd. And, by moving him to right, the pitchers never have to see him again. How bad is he? Let's put it this way: When Rich Hill calls you out, you might be a shitty catcher.

Can Barrett really play right? I dunno. But he can't be allowed to catch and Jacque can't be allowed to play right.

Aw, prarie shit. DFA both them losers.