Cubs Make A Big Move

After a month of rumors and denials, Matt Garza is coming to Wrigley.

The Cubs acquired the 27-year-old righty, OF Fernando Perez, and a player to be named later from Tampa Bay for P Chris Archer, SS Hak-Ju Lee, OF Sam Fuld, C Robinson Chirinos, and OF Brandon Guyer.

I've always been a big Garza fan, even during his highly publicized meltdowns. He's got tremendous stuff, he's been very durable, and his contract is Cub-friendly. He should be a solid, occasionally spectacular, NL starter.

Certain baseball writers think the Cubs gave up way too much for Garza, but I just don't see it. Sam Fuld is a dime-a-dozen utility outfielder. Chris Archer pitched well in A and AA ball, but the Cubs are loaded with young arms. Robinson Chirinos hit very well at AA in 2010, but he's been in their minor league system for 10 years, managing only 79 home runs in 2,900 at bats. Guyer has been up and down in four minor league seasons, including a very “up” 2010. His low walk total is a concern.

And now we come to Mr. Lee. Smarter people than yours truly love him as a prospect. After all, he's only 20 years old and has impressive patience at the plate. However, Lee slugged an embarrassing .351 in Peoria last season. I know he's young, but the caliber of pitching in low A ball is dreadful. If I worked in the Rays’ front office, I would be worried about his ability to swing the bat as he moves up the ladder. However, time is on his side.

Even if Lee becomes an everyday Major League shortstop, I still like this deal for the Cubs, who already have a superstar in the making at short. The Cubs may not be the NL Central favorites, but they just got a lot better. Nice move by Jim Hendry.