JEFF'S CHICAGO SPORTS BLOG - CUBS SIGN RIGHT FIELDER FUKODOME FROM JAPAN!
CUBS ADD LEFT-HANDED HITTING KOSUKE FUKODOME
Well Jim Hendry, Cubs General Manager, pulled the trigger this past week by signing Japanese sensation, Kosuke Fukodome. Fukodome is a left-handed hitter who is just what the doctor ordered for a Cub lineup that is largely right-handed. Fukodome has been playing in Japan for nearly a decade and twice has won a batting championship while also leading the Japan League in on-base percentage three times. He also brings a pretty good glove to his game with four gold gloves in Japan.
This move by Hendry gives the Cubs the chance they need to challenge for the Central Division Championship again. The Milwaukee Brewers have a formidable lineup and will definitely be a team that can put runs on the board. The Cubs will need to able to answer the Brewers with runs of their own. The Cubs desperately needed a productive left-handed hitter in the middle of their lineup. Fukodome gives the lineup more balance and hopefully another .300 hitter with Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez.
Fukodome also gives the Cubs a strong arm in right field, although his recent elbow surgery leaves somewhat of a question. Fukodome has been known in Japan for excellent defense and this is certainly something the Cubs need to improve on in order to make another playoff run.
Although other potential moves could be on the horizon, I think this move solidifies our outfield and puts a pretty darn good hitter in the middle of a lineup that can be formidable.
DO YOU THINK THIS MOVE WILL HELP THE CUBS WIN THE DIVISION IN 2008? Let me know your thoughts.
DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO SPORTS EDITOR,
JEFF ARDITO
