Goodbye Tony Campana and Hello Scott Hairston, Officially

For Tony Campana fans, today is a sad day fitting of the rainy weather in the Chicagoland area. The speedy, almost cult hero of Wrigleyville was designated for assignment this afternoon to make way for the official signing of Scott Hairston. The real life Road Runner’s 30 stolen bases in limited action last season will be missed, but as mentioned on Cubbies Crib when news of Hairston’s pending deal broke, Campana was candidate number one for the odd man out role on this Cubs 40 man roster.

May 12, 2012; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Tony Campana (1) during the game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

There is no denying the advantage speed brings to a ball club’s offense, especially one like that of the Cubs which otherwise lacks any regular stolen base threats outside of Starlin Castro. But unfortunately for both Campana and the Cubs, the Italian speedster just didn’t hit and get on base enough to maximize his base stealing speed. However, considering the time it has taken the team’s front office to officially make a move to add Hairston, even Campana’s inability to hit at the Major League level so far seems to indicate that letting him loose was not an easy decision.

As for Hairston, the timing of the roster move makes sense, as the free agent signing would be best suited to come to camp on time and get acquainted with his new club and teammates. The veteran outfielder plans to be penciled in as the platoon partner in right field to the left handed Nate Schierholtz.

For those of you really devastated by the release of Campana, there is the chance that he clears waivers like fellow recent DFA player Lendy Castillo, and makes a return to the Cubs organization outside of the 40 man roster.