Examining the Cubs' lineup for 2008

Let's look at the Cubs' starting lineup as it might be, if the season starts tomorrow.

LF Alfonso Soriano (R)
SS Ryan Theriot (R)
1B Derrek Lee (R)
3B Aramis Ramirez (R)
RF ??
2B Mark DeRosa (R)
C Geovany Soto (R)
CF Felix Pie (L)

So this is why the Cubs don't just WANT Fukudome; they NEED him. If Fukudome can handle center, then we can get away with putting Matt Murton in right field. But as of now, there is not a single proven left handed bat in the lineup. Pie had struggles. Maybe in a lineup like that he would really benefit in that you'd be crazy to start a left-hander against it. The other in-house idea is to use Mike Fontenot when possible at second. If he is ready for big leagues, Eric Patterson could fill that role. Also, Daryle Ward can play right field.

But seeing a lineup with Felix Pie is the only left-handed bat shows why the Cubs have to solve their outfield problem with someone who hits lefty. This is also why the Cubs wanted Kaz Matsui; using him at second, they can play DeRosa in his utility role.

If the Cubs can't get Fukudome, they would probably turn to the trade market. What they would have to offer could be Murton, a starting pitcher like Sean Marshall, and maybe Fontenot. But while it can be fun to imagine taking all your leftovers and sending them away for exactly what you need, in the winter meetings the other GMs no doubt are trying to induce Jim Hendry to give up his best prospects like Eric Patterson or Felix Pie, or a young pitcher just established like Rich Hill.