I've been doing my fair share of reading on this site among others about the Cubs' interest in Granderson and what people think of the possible acquisition. Very interesting.
Right now on the Cubs' depth chart, young gun Tyler Colvin is the starting center fielder. As of now, I don't see the Cubs taking a risk on the young guy by throwing him into the mix right away. At least I wouldn't.
For those of you who think Colvin is more than ready, do the names Felix Pie and Corey Patterson ring a bell? They were in the same exact position as Colvin. We all know how the two of them turned out. Let's not let Colvin turn out the same way. Give the kid some time. He's 24.
Let's look to the stats and contracts between Fukudome and Granderson.
Fukudome in 2009 was mediocre at best. That is being generous. He hit .259 with 11 home runs and 54 RBI in 146 games. Pretty amazing. Not.
Yes, his defense is very good in the outfield but that is not why he makes the big bucks.
Fukudome's contract is pretty ridiculous for the lack of production he provides. In 2009, Fukudome made $11.5 million. In 2010 Fukudome will make $13 million. In 2011 he will bring in $13.5 million and then become a free agent in 2012. For platoon numbers, Fukudome is not worth the big money he is making.
Let's take a look at Granderson.
In 2009, Granderson played 160 games. He did bat .249 but he had 30 home runs, 71 RBI, and 20 stolen bases. Besides his batting average, pretty good numbers.
In 2009 Granderson made $3.5 million. Granderson doesn't make above $10 million until 2012. The highest he makes is in 2013 if the club picks up his option. If not, free agent market.
Who could the Cubs give away?
If you look to the lack of talent in the Cubs farm system, they have a few names they could shell out. I could see the Cubs and the Tigers agreeing on a trade that includes Josh Vitters and a couple of pitchers. The Tigers SHOULD have a very keen interest in Vitters. Brandon Inge is always injured and when down, Vitters could fill that void.
Pitchers that could be included could be Samardzija, Cashner, and maybe someone like Caridad who showed promise or Gorzelanny who is still fairly young and talented.
If I were the Cubs and the Tigers, I would do a deal that looks something like this.
Josh Vitters, Tom Gorzelanny, and maybe Cashner or Samardzija for Granderson and a prospect from their system. Seems like a fair deal to me.
Jim Hendry, let's get it done.
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