Cubs Get Rich Harden in Trade, Likelihood of World Series Title Increases

The Chicago Cubs (55-36) are owners of the best record in the National League by a 4½ game margin. Yet the recent acquisition of CC Sabathia by the Milwaukee Brewers has forced Cubs' general manager Jim Hendry to deem it necessary to acquire right-handed pitcher Rich Harden from the Oakland Athletics. Harden brings a dominant 5-1 record and 2.34 ERA to Wrigley Field. Harden, teaming with Cubs' ace Carlos Zambrano, will make a formidable 1-2 pitching combination that no National League team will want to face in the playoffs.

While the Cubs appear headed toward a run at their first World Series title in a century, the trade does not come without significant risk. Harden only pitched in a combined 16 games during the 2006 and 2007 seasons, including only four starts last year. He has spent a month of the 2008 season on the disabled list with a shoulder strain. Chicago has not exactly been lucky when it comes to injuries to starting pitchers. Both Kerry Wood and Mark Prior appeared headed for amazing careers before injuries derailed them. The north side of Chicago holds its breath and rolls the dice that they get luckier with Mr. Harden.

The risk of injury is not the only potential downside to the Cubs trade. Hendry gave up a group of young players in order to acquire Harden. Outfielder Matt Murton had a breakout year in 2006, batting .297 with 13 homeruns and 62 RBIs. Murton has struggled the past two seasons but, at the age of 25, has the potential to have a long, successful career. 22-year old Sean Gallagher is another new Oakland Athletic with a lot of upside. His 3-4 record and 4.45 ERA will not be the norm for this right-hander throughout his career. Infielder/outfielder Eric Patterson has played 20 games with Chicago and has shown the potential to be a similar leadoff hitter as his brother, Corey. Minor league catcher Josh Donaldson was also included in the deal.

Coming to Chicago with Harden is right-handed reliever Chad Gaudin. Gaudin brings experience in an attempt to shore up the Cubs' bullpen. Gaudin is 5-3 with a 3.59 ERA in 2008.