Mike Cameron and the Chicago Cubs: Are They a Fit?

Originally posted on BringingHeat.com

The latest news on the Chicago Cubs search for a center fielder is revolving around signing Mike Cameron in the near future.

Cameron, who will be 37 years old at the start of the 2010 season, remains an elite defender in the outfield. Offensively, he really is a hallmark of consistency. 

Cameron is annually a reliable run producer; the past three seasons he’s also hit 21 or more home runs while averaging a mediocre, albeit acceptable, .330 OBP.

Some people complain about his lower batting average and higher strikeout totals, but they are rendered almost meaningless if he’s getting on base acceptably and hitting with his normal power.

When recently asked about Mike Cameron, Lou Piniella replied simply that he loved the guy.

Cameron likely won’t be signed until Milton Bradley is moved in an eventual trade. With Bradley heading out, it allows Fukudome to return to right field, the position where he was an elite defender on the North Side in 2008. Having Cameron and Fukudome manning two-thirds of the outfield would be a top-notch defensive situation.

The Brewers paid Cameron $10 million this past season, but with the market the way it is and factoring in Cameron’s age, he could get a two-year deal averaging around $8 million.

Curtis Granderon is still on the minds of the Cubs, but it seems that no team will make a move for him until the Tigers drop their high trade demands. Rumors have also linked the Cubs to free agent center fielders Marlon Byrd and Rick Ankiel.

If Cameron brings his top-of-the-line defense, consistent offensive production, and quality character to Chicago, I’m sure the organization would be very happy with his signing.