Cubs intend to suck in 2010

It seems the Cubs rotation for next year is pretty much figured out. “You look at our starting pitching here for next year,” Piniella said. “You’ve got (Carlos) Zambrano, you’ve got (Ryan) Dempster, you’ve got (Randy) Wells, you’ve got (Ted) Lilly, you’ve got (Tom) Gorzelanny, and you’ve got (Jeff) Samardzija, who is going to go to winter ball. And if this kid keeps improving, he’ll be right in the mix. So we’ve got six nice arms.” The exclusion of Harden may have been unintentional, but the Cubs are likely concerned that the stability of his right shoulder is problematic, especially on a multiyear deal. Harden has faced questions about his shoulder before, and knows to expect it again. “I’m healthy,” Harden said. “You can ask the Cubs here, and see what they say.” That’s still a solid rotation, but it appears the Cubs won’t offer arbitration to Rich Harden, which would have to be one of the dumber things this organization has ever done. They also have to replace his production somehow. The Cubs are satisfied with losing about 6 losses in Bradley and Harden. The Cubs are better than they’ve played this season, but 6 losses is a lot. Rich Harden could probably be signed for a relatively decent contract, but unfortunately the Cubs won’t do so. As I’ve mentioned before, short of spending a shitload of money this offseason or acquiring cheap young talent like Lincecum (no chance) the Cubs just don’t have any chance of contending in 2010 without Bradley and Harden. (h/t to MLB Trade Rumors)