Cubs Free Agents...

The Cubs have eight players who have filed for free agency:

Henry Blanco--Had an option for 2009, but it was declined by the Cubs. I look for the Cubs to eventually resign Blanco. Most likely, they will do so at a lower price. Blanco is a very good defensive catcher and a good 2nd option behind the plate. He won't wow anybody, but he doesn't have to with starter Geovany Soto locked in behind the plate.

Ryan Dempster--In the days after the Cubs were eliminated from the playoffs, Dempster said that he would love to come back in a Cubs uniform. The Cubs need to get Dempster signed. I think a deal gets done because this is near the top of GM Jim Hendry's "to do" list this offseason.

Jim Edmonds—I look for the Cubs to say thanks for this year, but we don’t want you back next year. Jim was a great pickup for the Cubs, but I just don’t think he puts up as good of numbers next year. Lou said he wants to platoon Reed Johnson and Fukudome in center so I really think that was a sign that Edmonds will not be in a Cubs uniform next season.

Chad Fox—Injuries have hampered his Cubs career, and it’s now time to say Good-bye.

Bob Howry—Howry’s role in the bullpen diminished with the emergence of Jeff Samardzjia. Howry gave up too many late inning home runs, and it’s time for him to go somewhere else.

Jon Lieber—Looked like it could be a good signing at the time, but Lieber was never really healthy. He can be a good long-inning relief game or a spot starter, but his big league career is winding down so there is no use signing him for next year.

Daryle Ward—This could go either way, but I would guess the Cubs get rid of Ward. Micah Hoffpauir has shown he can hit in the big leagues so he can take Ward’s spot off the bench, if he doesn’t find a way into the starting lineup.

Kerry Wood—Another thing on the top of Hendry’s “to do” list. The Cubs need Wood on the backend of the bullpen, and I’m not the only person who knows that. Hendry knows this, and I’m nearly 100% confident a deal will get done. Kerry’s a life long Cub. He and his wife are always doing charity work in the community. He has no reason to leave the team now, especially when the Cubs will certainly want him back.