2009 Recap: Aaron Miles

Aaron Miles was terrible in 2009. I'm not even going to go look at his K-rate, BABIP,  UZR or anything. They're all effing horrid, I already know. Instead, let's talk about what Aaron Miles' short tenure with the Cubs represents as part of the larger picture. Miles' contract was a two-year deal worth $5 million or so. Therefore fact that it was widely regarded as a signifcant waste of cash says something. The Aaron Miles signing was just another example -- perhaps the best example -- of Jim Hendry's amazing propensity to make needless concessions to mediocre players. The second year for Bob Howry. The more than $7 million guaranteed for John Grabow. Soriano's eighth year. Bradley's third year. Every no-trade clause Hendry's ever given away. I'm sure I'm forgetting a ton of stuff, but the trend should be obvious: Jim Hendry gives up too much to sign mediocre players. I don't mind a massive payroll; heck, I demand it, given ...