Hendry’s Not Done Looking

I’m guessing I’m not the only one who’s been a little underwhelmed by the front-office’s moves this off-season.  No Jake Peavy.  Milton Bradley as the “solution” to our rightfield issue.  No real leadoff man, still.  Having to dump Felix Pie and Rich Hill on the Orioles.  All-in-all, it’s been a tad frustrating.  But, in spite of it all, I still have faith in Jim Hendry, the architect behind two consecutive playoff appearances.  I believe Hendry will continue trying to improve the team right on through spring training and up to the start of the season, as he has promised.  Quoting the GM:

"We’re ready to go to camp and adjust after that.  We’re in good shape, but we’ll always stay active in the scouting process. Lots of good players are left who haven’t signed yet, and we’ll continue to keep an eye on that, too."

I’m gonna have to take issue with one thing Hendry said:  “Lots of good players are left who haven’t signed yet.”  I don’t know what list Jim is looking at, but the one I’ve got doesn’t include a whole bunch of what I would call good players, at least not at positions where the team still has a glaring need.  For instance, in looking for someone who might suffice as a fifth starter, the best person I or anyone else can come up with is Braden Looper.  Paul Byrd?  Too old.  Pedro?  Uh…done.  Kenny Rogers?  Not unless we’re planning a rumble against the WGN cameramen (yes I know he retired but I liked my joke).  It probably doesn’t matter much who we stick in that 5-hole anyway:  They’d be nothing but a stopgap until the trade deadline when Jake Peavy’s name will undoubtedly again come up.  Unfortunately, it just wasn’t a great off-season to need what the Cubs needed.  There were few great answers.  Let’s hope Hendry at least found some decent ones.