I tried to stay out of this thread, but I just cant. What the heck were the Cubs options? Leverage their bountifal farm system? LOL. The only alternative was to rebuild, and deal some current talent(Lee, Barrett) for prospects. I don't think that would have gone over well. Call me a homer, but the offense will be much better in 2007, and if Rich Hill can pitch like he did at the end of 06, we secure a couple of decent starters, and either Prior or Miller are healhty and effective, this team might just my sneak in the playoffs. And that is good enough for me.