The problem is, for $13m this year and $13.5m next year, the Cubs should be getting better production than what Fukudome has given them. He's a good player and would be a useful platoon player/defensive replacement on a contending team, but for that price, you really need something better at RF. Sure you'd want more for the money, but that does not explain their insistence on dumping him. They've gotten the 5th best OPS in the NL from their RF. That's Fukudome and Colvin, but both guys have about the same overall OPS. Fukudome's is more valuable given the 370 OPB to Colvin's 311. Since the all star break Fukudome has a 958 OPS with a ridiculous OBP of 450. Colvin, who keeps getting more playing time, is at a measly 767 with an anemic OBP of 308. Sure in theory you might get more production for the money spent, but where the hell is it actually going to come from? Fukudome needs to play more for this team, as he's been a positive despite not being as good as hoped for. Wait, that can't be true, Fuku only plays good in April and then sucks the rest of the year Ive been told....