Dempster re-signs with Cubs

[justanewguy]

That makes too much sense for it to happen though.

Abreu would be the perfect addition. This was an incredible team last season... I didn't give them much credit until they wrapped up their division impressively. I was skeptical, but I'm sold now. The question is, can they be that good again? Will Soto keep hitting like Piazza? Will Dempster continue being a top 5 NL pitcher? If everyone plays like they're capable of, all this team needs is Abreu, a random role player or two, and a little bit of bullpen help (Beimel? He'd be perfect for HR wind at Wrigley, and make that bullpen instantly better).

But they really need that solid lefty bat... there's been talk about trading Lee.

You know what would be an interesting trade? Lee for Loney. I'd pull the trigger if I were either side. Lee would replace what Kent did for the Dodgers when he was still very good, and Loney would give the Cubs the same level of quality in the field and a good lefty bat.

[HoustonGM]

Abreu would be the perfect addition.

He would. Abreu's going to be a nice bargain for some smart team. I've heard the Cubs in connection to Raul Ibanez, which is really silly when Abreu's available.

Will Soto keep hitting like Piazza?

Considering he hasn't hit like Piazza, no. But seriously, I think he'll continue to be one of the best offensive catchers in the majors (and from all reports, is defense is at least solid). He hit .285/.364/.504 this year, a 120 OPS+. I expect he'll put up at least a few more 115-125 OPS+ seasons.

Will Dempster continue being a top 5 NL pitcher?

Very likely not.

[KowboyKoop]

Dempster will probably be pretty good next year....but not as good as last year. I'd be more worried about Harden getting hurt (94% chance?) and which Zambrano will show up next year..the true ace form 2003-06 or the one of the past couple years...pretty decent, but not an ace....weight/injury concerns??? It wouldn't surprise me if the Cubs starting pitching was worse than expected next year (though certainly still decent..)