It is apparent that the Cubs are set on acquiring a center outfielder before the beginning of the season. The prospect of a deal for Baltimore second baseman Brian Roberts are dwindling, so the Cubs have set their sights on another would be leadoff hitter. Boston center fielder Coco Crisp has been rumored to move since the end of last season and it is now likely the Cubs will move in that direction.
Although Felix Pie has been driving the ball well this spring, the Cubs would still like to see him hit to the opposite field with greater frequentency. If Jim Hendry were to land Crisp, it is likely that either Pie or Sam Fuld would start the season in the minors.
The Boston Red Sox have plenty of young arms, but the need for a veteran in their rotation could lead to the disgruntled Jason Marquis's exit. This would be a welcomed sign only if Jon Lieber steps up and wins the fifth spot on the staff. Lieber has pitched well this spring and the only question mark is his ability to make 25 to 30 starts. Of course, there is still Sean Marshall who could provide the necessary insurance to make this deal more realistic.
Although Crisp is not known for having a constistent bat, he brings gold glove ability as well as a much needed left handed stick to the top of order. This, for a line-up that includes Kosuke Fukodome as the lone left handed bat. Crisp is an affordable option as well who is slated to make 4.75 and 5.75 million respectively for the 2008 and 2009 seasons with an option for 2010 at 8 million.
Keywords: Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Coco Crisp, Felix Pie, Jim Hendry
