Prior signs new 1-year contract

With a top, reliable pitcher needed to return for a anticipated full season, the Cubs decided to sign Mark Prior to a 1-year $3.35 million contract. The organization feels the young gun is well worth the money. To me, I'm really surprised he didn't negogitate for more money. With a decision swaying in the balance with Kerry Wood, it's a smart move for the Cubs to keep Prior satisfied. I know for sure though, he wasn't happy with last season's outcome. His nagging injury and the team's despairing performance down the stretch wasn't a bright spot.

Prior and Zambrano are the future of this team and are both expected to be healthy for the 2006 season. I don't what the Cubs organization has in store in the near future or what strings they will pull at the top, but if they don't retrieve any real offensive threats to fill the outfield positions Cubs fans will be in for another disappointing season. Management must do a better job of gathering ther right talent that mixes well within a group. Otherwise it will much of the same as in years past.

Free agent signing

In a move to provide an extra arm in the outfield the Cubs signed veteran Marquis Grissom to minor league contract. He's been around the block and has playoff experience. The problem is he's towards the end of his career. I have no idea what Andy McPhail is thinking and why he refuses to grab some real talent to give this team a top caliber offense. Forget that...the owner and GM should be make a guarantee for the Cubs to make the playoffs in 2006. It's a tall order to fill and it puts pressure on a team. On the otherhand it shows optimism and leaks motivation to the whole organization. Most important players are driven by this.

I think Grissom would be a good addition as a bench player. He doesn't have the quite the speed anymore and won't drive in many runs. If he's placed on the active roster and can prove to be a consistent hitter when needed he'll serve as a valued asset. The years he had with the Braves were sparkling, though those days are long gone. So the team management needs to be realistic for the new year and make resolutions they can keep and follow through.