I just can't help feeling a little genuine optimism about the Cubs' prospects for 2007. This is indeed a dangerous concept, since many too many years as a Chicagoan have taught me never EVER to doubt this team's aility to disappoint. Nevertheless they have put out a considerable effort and a lot of money to bring a better roster and, I personally think, a better manager to the friendly confines of Wrigley this season. Don't get me wrong. I think they have major challenges in putting together an effective batting order and finding a pitching rotation that will be reliable enough to win more often than not. But they deserve a "gold star" for the offseason, and there are actual reasons for hope (as opposed to just wishful thoughts).

There's a nice review of the situation in an ESPN story by Jerry Crasnick, yesterday, at: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/spring2007/columns/story?columnist=crasnick_jerry&id=2774939