A Milton Miracle?

The Cubs made headline news when the free-agent signing period began with attempting to swing a deal for pitcher Jake Peavy. 

I would have loved to see Peavy in that rotation, but in the end they were giving up a plethora of prospects in addition to Rich Harden.  The Cubs have some good prospects in their organization including pitcher Jeff Samardzija, pitcher Donald Veal, 3B Josh Vitters, OF Tyler Colvin but departing with a few of these guys and Harden would have left their farm league potential a little dry. 

In order to obtain Harden from Oakland, they had to send a couple of their top prospects over.  So Peavy didn't make much sense for me.  But Bradley.  The Milton Bradley makes a lot of sense. 

I know he's somewhat injury prone and I know he's had trouble with his temper, but the guy can play baseball.  Ramirez, Lee, Soriano, Derosa, Soto...the Cubs big bats in 2008...were all RIGHT-Handed! 

Fukodome barely even hit 10 HR.  I think he'll adjust and have a better season, but he's not likely to hit over 15 HR.  The Cubs never really posed a true Left-Handed power threat throughout their lineup.  We all know Darryl Ward can't play everyday.  Bradley hit .321  22 HR and a .436 OBP.  That's better than any Cub posted last season. 

Ramirez was second with a distant .380 OBP.  We all saw how the Cubs couldn't get on base during their once again short lived postseason.  And Bradley doubles as a switch hitter who hits well from both sides of the plate .312 vs. RHP; .341 vs. LHP.  He's athletic in the outfield and we should expect spectacular plays defensively in the friendly confines.  I don't doubt he may make a stint or two on the DL but if he can play 120-130 games as last season and put up similar numbers, the signing will have taken care of itself. 

And as far as his temper...I believe GM Jim Hendry and Sweet Lou had some serious conversation.  If anyone could handle it, Lou could.  The Cubs could probably use his passion and intensity.  Maybe they could at least make it to the ALCS.  Good move for the Cubs.