The Chicago Cubs will likely have the same line-up as last year except that Milton Bradley is no longer with the team as he was traded to the Seatle Mariners for Carlos Silva, and the Cubs acquired Marlyn Byrd in Free agnecy who will start in Center Field and take Braley's spot in the line up. This aqusition will move Kosuke Fukudome back to right field which is his natural postion. This move will help the Cubs defensively after a season in which they were 23rd in the Major Leagues. Across the infield the Cubs are set with Derek Lee at first, Mike Fonentenot at second, Ryan Theriot at short, Aramis Ramirez at third, and Geovany Soto will do the catching.
The Cubs starting line up is basicilly set 1-8, but their are some players that could possibly work their way in the line up with a strong performing Spring Training or an injury to a starter. The Cubs are hoping that their new hitting coach can help to find and fix any glitch in Fukudome's swing. The Cubs have been very frustrated with Kosuke in the two years he has been with the team. The Japanese import has played well below expectaions and has not lived up to the big contract he was given. If Kosuke stuggles in Spring training, do not be suprised if the Cubs start former Pitsburg Pirate Xavier Nady. Nady has a career .280 batting average and is a solid fielder. He was signed in the offseason for a one year deal.
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