Are the Chicago Cubs Ready To Contend in the Playoffs?

It has been an interesting offseason to say the least. 

Though Chicago Cubs fans have been less than excited about the moves made thus far, and are still awaiting that patented last minute Jim Hendry move. 

Jim Hendry has been a tremendous help to the Chicago Cubs who, before he arrived in 2002, looked as though they belonged in Double-A ball. 

He got to work immediately, firing Don Baylor and subsequently bringing in names such as: Dusty Baker, Aramis Ramirez, Derrek Lee, Nomar Garciaparra, Greg Maddux, Lou Piniella, Alfonso Soriano, and Milton Bradley, to name a few. 

While his acquisitions have had their ups and downs, Hendry has shown the desire to improve. But have the Cubs improved at all this offseason?

The Good

Ryan Dempster (17-6, 2.96 ERA in 2008) was signed to a four-year deal on November 18. He was a rock in the rotation last year, and should help hold the staff together for the next few seasons.

Milton Bradley was one of the most sought after sluggers of the offseason. However, many teams were hesitant to sign the outfielder due to his hot temper and injury history. 

Last season, Bradley hit .321 with 22 home runs, and 77 RBI. The Cubs signed the slugger on Jan. 8. 

Reed Johnson batted .303 with six home runs, 50 RBI, and 21 doubles in 109 games.  Add his acrobatically stellar defense, and he is a great keep.

The Bad

Neil Cotts went 0-2 with a 4.29 ERA in 2008.  On Dec. 12, Cotts signed a one-year deal with Chicago.

Chad Gaudin finished 2008 with a 4.40 ERA, and owns a career 4.45 ERA in six seasons. Gaudin’s appearances were limited last year due to back injuries. On Dec. 12, Gaudin was signed on for the 2009 season.

Aaron Miles is a solid utility player, but will never put up power numbers like Mark DeRosa.  Miles hit an impressive .317 in 2008; however had only 31 RBI, and had a lowly four home runs.

Luis Vizcaino is a 34-year old relief pitcher with a lifetime 4.24 ERA. Not a bad acquisition I suppose, but not a fair trade for Jason Marquis.

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