As you mentioned, the Cubs are in a world of hurt right now, and it’s impossible to blame it on one single player or stat. I do believe, however, the return of Aramis Ramirez (hopefully by the ASB) will be a tremendous lift to the offense.

Milton Bradley’s bat is coming around, and it looks as though he may be the one to carry us for a month or two.

Jake Fox is a player I’ve been watching here in Iowa all season. I’m glad he’s finally getting a chance to prove himself, and his willingness to learn is admirable. However, D. Lee’s defense is better than Fox’s offense, leaving Fox without a position. I wouldn’t mind giving him a shot at 3B, though I wouldn’t be surprised to see that backfire.

I’ve always been a big fan of Zambrano, but he is who he is. He’s not about to change his game now, and the fact is he still walks way too many batters. With the uncertainty surrounding Harden, the Cubs are in a situation where they must make a deal for Peavy. Problem is, they likely don’t have the resources to swing a deal.

There’s a chance Matt Holliday could hit the trade market soon as well, and while I’d like to see the Cubs make a push, what do they have to give?

The Cubs’ window of opportunity is closing quickly. They have done a less than great job of developing young talent over the last decade, and are paying the price now as you mentioned.

It’s still early, but based on this year’s strength of the NL Central, the Cubs will be forced to make an incredible second half run in order to return to the playoffs.