Interesting that the Cubs are bidding against the Braves for Furcal, with the Braves being an organization the Cubs ought to try to emulate. Yet, the only way the Cubs get Furcal is if they outbid the Braves, essentially with the Braves conceding Furcal isn't worth the cost the Cubs are willing to pay. Of course, the Braves may not wish to meet the Cubs' price because their existing offense and/or short stop replacement are adequate for their needs. That, in turn, begs the question whether the Cubs are hamstringing themselves and their future, to some extent, with an exorbitant contract to Furcal. Again, with such behavior being contrary to the Brave model. Ah, offseason craziness.