Wow, you alright ORS?
Let me tell you why a trade like that would make sense for the Cubs;
Because Ramirez isn't going to be a Cub for very much longer. If they want they can dump him now and either get a replacement, or move Izturis or Cedeno to third and have a rather solid, balanced infield. Also, lets face it, A-Rod; a clear headed A-Rod that doesnt have the weight of the tri-state Metropolitan area on his shoulders is the best player in baseball. If you want o argue that Pujols get sthat distinction, fine, but if thats the case tha A-Rod is second. They'll be getting God-like production out of the shortstop position. Also, baseball is a business, and the Cubs know that. Bringing A-Rod in would be GREAT for business. Between A-Rod and Lou that town would be absolutely buzzing. Chicago is already great when it comes to it's baseball, it would just be that much better with the addition of these two.
Granted, they would be giving up one of the best pitchers in the game, but I honestly think that the CUbs would do that. They would want to please Lou by getting A-Rod, and they know A-Rod's capabilities. Granted, they would lose a lot in the pitching department, but I think that if maybe they went out and got a middle of the rotation starter to put with a HEALTHY Prior and Wood they would be alright.
When it comes to on-the-field, no, it's not a great trade for the Cubs. But baseball is more than that. I think Lou would embrace it, and therefore the organization would embrace it. If healthy they have a pretty good pitching staff (I think, i'm basing that statement on vague memories), and with the addition of A-Rod, and perhaps a Soriano (who the Cubs are REALLY interested in as a Center Fielder/Leadoff hitter) they would be extremely productive on the offensive side of the ball. Honestly, if i'm the Cubs I make this trade.
Me personally, like ATG I've changed my mind when it comes to trading Alex. Like I said, he is IMO the most talented player in baseball, and without all of the mental things he has going on he would be the most productive player in the game. That's not a fabrication, we've seen it.
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Back to the topic of the thread, I think Lou would do a pretty good job with this team. I really do. I'll be pulling for them.
Anyone catch what number he got? Did he get his 14? I didn't see the entire press conference so i'm not sure.