Cubs And Jonny Gomes

Glad the Cubs are giving Jonny Gomes a strong look.

He’s in his peak years as a 29-year-old, and still has potential, especially as a strong right-handed bat off the bench.

Last season Gomes batted .267 overall, .307 against left-handers, hit 20 HR and drove in 51 RBI for the Reds.

He did it in only 98 games played, despite Cincy fans begging Dusty Baker to start him.

Of the three reported ‘fourth outfielders’ the Cubs are targeting -Jermaine Dye, Xavier Nady & Jim Edmonds (okay, I’m including Edmonds for my sake), Gomes would easily come as the most affordable. (Rick Ankiel, who was also speculated to be in the Cubs’ mix, signed with Kansas City Thursday.)

Drawbacks to signing Gomes? Durability is the top issue. He’s yet to play in more than 117 games through five full seasons. His defense, though versatile, is average as well.

The plus side…coming off the pine he’s a right-handed bat with power, he’s cheap, can play both corner outfield positions, he’s cheap, would costs the Cubs little if he under performs, could be valuable trade bait come July, and he’s affordable/cheap.

I’m not saying Jonny is tops on my list, but the mystery of Gomes’ career –just what kind of player is this guy?– intrigues me. It’s a small risk on the Cubs part financially, so I’d be happy to see them take the chance.