Rich Harden, new Cub

That sure didn’t take long! This was in the works for a while, but things actually got more intense after CC went to the Brewers. As and Cubs seems to have a very good relationship for these kind of things (see: last year’s Jason Kendall trade), so that it happened isn’t a big surprise. No one was expecting it today.

Going to the As:

* Sean Gallagher – should eventually be a 2/3 starter, the prize of the deal
* Eric Patterson – utility guy who possibly could start at 2B
* Matt Murton – FREED! extra OF
* Josh Donaldson – A level catcher, who walked a lot before this season

Going to the Cubs:
* Rich Harden – club option for 2009 for $7mil (surely picked up if he stays healthy)
* Chad Gaudin – headed to the ‘pen, takes Gallagher’s spot as likely starter if Marquis falters (or Harden or someone else gets hurt.)

Best possible pitcher for the Cubs to pick up – I liked this option much more than AJ Burnett or anyone else floated.

I really like Gallagher, more than most fans of this team so too and think he’s got some good stuff ahead of him. E Pat could go either way, but Gallagher is how this deal is going to be judged.