I don't think a lot of people have noticed that this team is now on pace to win 70 games this year, and I think 75 seems within reach. So it's not like we're asking for a 20-game turnaround or anything. They're not *that* far from getting to 85 wins. NL 1b: .268 .347 .445 .793 Cubs 1b: .220 .332 .435 .767 NL No. 3 hitters: .279 .351 .447 .798 Cubs No. 3 hitters (warning, this one is sickening): .249 .284 .394 .678 I'll admit to being a bit skeptical on the big signing earlier in the year, but I was wrong. It couldn't be more obvious. This team needs a PR boost, they need a 1b for next year, they need a middle-of-the-order bat. They have a lot of money to spend. Two of the biggest names in the game, who happen to be middle-of-the-order bats who play 1b, are going to be available this offseason, and signing one would weaken (cripple?) a key divisional rival. It might be the most obvious move in the history of the franchise. Exactly, which is why this rumor is most likely horse [expletive]. I'm sorry, but the Ricketts aren't that stupid. At the very least it's just glaringly obvious good business sense. And the Cubs' #3 hitter stats are skewed by Quade stupidly not having it manned only by Pena or Aramis.