Pretty Boy Floyd

Yesterday the Cubs signed Cliff Floyd to a 1-year, incentive laden contract. Last year was the year the Cubs had about 8 2nd basemen. This year in the outfield they have Murton, Floyd, Pagan, Soriano, Pie, Jones and Coats.

Nobody thinks Floyd will be as good as Jones would be, and he costs about as much. But the Cubs have been trying to seal this deal since October on the theory that they only need a 1-year veteran while they build up child phenom Felix Pie. So they're unwilling to give Jones the long-term contract he deserves, and will trade him instead before spring. Floyd needs a 1-year because he's coming off an injury season.

It's also sort of a sad day for Matt Murton, who's good enough to play all season. The Cubs are all agog because Floyd's a lefty, but frankly his numbers are no better than Murton, who comparatively plays for free.

Pros: He probably won't suck.
Cons: Any way you look at it, he's a wash-up or a never-was. Unremarkable in every way. He's a left-field warm body.
Wild Card: Grew up a White Sox fan on the south side. Which is cool for him, because on his off days he can go watch a team play that he cares about.

Tomorrow: Glendon Rusch.