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Cubs Looking For Lefties, Speed

The Cubs have joined the race for second baseman Luis Castillo. Castillo, who hit .301 with 1 HR, 38 RBI, and 19 SB, played for the Marlins back in 2003, the year they beat the Cubs in seven games. Nevertheless, Castillo would give them a solid lead off man who is a good fielder with great speed. The question always comes up though, is there room? You could say yes, but the Cubs would be putting Lou Piniella in a situation with too many starters. It would force him to start DeRosa in right field more often, cut back on Ryan Theriot's playing time some, and maybe even take some at bats away from Derek Lee. Yet, Lou Piniella went with over 90 different lineups last season, so I think it can be done. The Astros are also looking at Castillo along with the Mets, but only if Davd Eckstein does not want to play second base. With Matsui, I think the Cubs were looking to bring him in to try and lure Fukudome, but his price may have gotten too steep. They still plan to go after Fukudome, but hope to lure him in by exposing their solid offense, beautiful stadium, and city to him. Adding Fukudome would give them an experienced bat at the bottom part of their order, who probably won't have as much power as he has in Japan. The Rangers, Mets, Yankees, Padres are considering a run at him, along with many other teams. According to sources inside the Cubs, there has been some interest in Milton Bradley, but only if Fukudome is not with the Cubs.

UPDATE: The Mets are on the verge of signing Luis Castillo to a four year deal worth 25 million dollars. Although he can help the top of your order, his leg problems have become a problem will be more significant as he gets older.