Ramirez Resigns with the Cubs

[catman]

Avoiding free-agency, the Cubs resigned their 3B:
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/6163558

[doublee]

Cubs needed to make this move as they likely were not going to get a comparable bat via free agency and need someone to protect Lee in the lineup.

This will probably rekindle the A-Rod being traded speculation now that Ramirez is off the market.

[catman]

I agree with that. ARod is the best 3B on the market now. It just depends on how much of the contract King George is willing to eat.

[catman]

The Cubs needed to make this move to show Lou that they really want to have a chance of contending. ARam is a good run-producer and fits well in the clubhouse as well.

[doublee]

Well I think some of the A-Rod chatter died down when it seemed apparent that Ramirez was going to opt out and be available via free agency. Why give up two or three pitchers for A-Rod when you can get Ramirez for roughly the same money if not less than what you would have to pay A-Rod next year?

But, now that he is off the market the teams that were interested in Ramirez may see what it will take to lure A-Rod away from the Yankees.

Since the Cubs' SS has been mediocre at best the past few seasons they needed to keep Ramirez' glove at third as he is also a pretty good defensive 3B.

[Billy D]

I'm surprised that Aramis re-signed. Seemed like he'd be a better fit in Anaheim. The Cubs rebuilding effort will waste a couple more years of Aramis' prime

[catman]

The Angels really don't need Ramirez as much as he would have needed them. They probably made him a reasonable offer, which the Cubs beat, easily.
With the Cubs signing Mark DeRosa to play 2B, they are making some positive moves to improve their club and attract some of the FA pitchers.

[doublee]

Well, it does remain to be seen if DeRosa can do it again or if last season was his career year.

As for Ramirez why switch leagues when you already know the NL pitchers and ballparks? We all saw what happened to Adrian Beltre when he took the cash and ran to Seattle.

But, honestly, aside from Zito there really are not any pitchers on the market worth getting excited about and even Zito has left a bit to be desired the past couple of seasons.

What the Cubs need to worry about is building a solid defensive team to support some of the young pitchers they are likely going to have to rely on next year like Hill and Guzman.

[bama4256]

That was very smart of them. :thumbup:

[Billy D]

As for Ramirez why switch leagues when you already know the NL pitchers and ballparks? We all saw what happened to Adrian Beltre when he took the cash and ran to Seattle.
Good point. Although the Dodgers and Phillies could've used 3Bs... either would be better than the Cubs in my book

[dirtywhiteboy]

Where to start?

Rammy has improved his defense, yes. But, he's still no Scott Rolen out there. The bat makes up for a few errors, and that's the truth. His range is average, but he has learned a lot, and positions himself well.
Someone else mentioned the team's overall defense. Izturis is still quite a nice player to compliment Rammy. That left side is solid. The other corner is gold glove, to boot. 2nd base should be fine. Those not familar with the Cubs should know that a second year 2nd baseman, Ryan Theriot, is a capable infielder, as well. He has great speed, and can hit for average. A nice insurance policy for a team that knows the pitfalls of injuries.
The team needs another corner outfielder, and probably, a CF. Pierre will not be back, more than likely. It's a long-shot, but the Braves are rumored to be taking offers for Andruw Jones. Again, all rumor. Also, JD Drew could be a fit, providing his ability to stay on the field.
As far as pitching goes, Jim Hendry is looking at Toronto's Ted Lilly. I'm not a fan, but he is solid. Not a #1, but the Cubs already have Zambo at the top. Rich Hill, and a solid rookie suprise, Sean Marshall, should also make the team. And, unlike many fans, I haven't quite given up on Mark Prior. I believe he's got plenty of baseball left in him. Kerry Wood was signed at a low-low, everyday Wal-Mart price, as well. His contract is full of insentives - all of which are innings related. I also have high hopes for Wade Miller. The only spot I don't like is the closer. Ryan Dempster is not the long-term answer. Most likely, it will be a closer by committee situation at Carke and Addison next summer.
For me, a Wild Card is the Cubs best bet. I will take it.