Oh…we all dream about the possibility of Albert Pujols wearing a Cubs uniform next year. And even if that doesn’t work out, we’ve got Prince Fielder looking for a job in 2012 too.
So, I’ve got to ask, aren’t we being a bit naïve here?
Pujols or Fielder?
The Cubs are going to have not one, but two major voids to fill this offseason. It is highly doubtful that the Cubs are going to ask Aramis Ramirez back after this season (the Cubs hold and option for 2012). On top of that, there doesn’t appear to be any minor league prospects that will be ready to take over at third.
So the Cubs need to wisely fill both of the corner infield positions this coming offseason.
"I love you too, and you smell like donuts!"
Pujols or Fielder?
No Pujols AND Fielder!
They’re both first baseman you say? Not quite. Pujols came up to the Major Leagues in 2001 and during that season he started at 3rd base 52 times. In fact, just last week he started a game over at third base, and did a pretty damn good job over there. I see no reason that the Cubs can’t just move Pujols over there on a full time basis. That would leave first base open to Prince Fielder.
"Where's my hug?"
And we all know Fielder would love to play in Chicago, especially with all the great restaurants in this great city. Heck, Wrigleyville/Lakeview has a number of places with good vegetarian menus (if he foolishly decides to remain a vegetarian).
This off-season, the Cubs will have the contracts of Aramis Ramirez, Carlos Pena, Kosuke Fukudome, Jeff Samardzija, and John Grabow all coming off the books. That results in a total of about $45 million available. Give Pujols a back weighted 8 year/$200 million and Fielder 6 year/$132 million, with next year each player earning $25 million and $20 million respectively. Bingo!
So, Cubs fans, when talking about possible off-season acquisitions this winter, don’t limit your dreams to just one player. If the Cubs want to really make a big splash, they should dream big. Worried about big, back loaded contracts? Why? They’ve worked out so well for us in the past! Renovate Wrigley? No. We just need with these two guys playing every day to solve all our problems.
Pujols and Fielder!
